How you can make your home greener
Even the smallest steps make a difference. Here’s a list of ways to help the planet around the home.
Smart thermostats
This clever technology connects to your central heating system, boiler or air conditioning. Using Wi-Fi-enabled features, smart thermostats heat up or cool down your house based on the temperature outside and your home’s heating patterns. They can even automatically switch off your system when you leave home, then heat it up for when you get back.
Energy-saving lightbulbs
Did you know only 5% of the electricity used by traditional lightbulbs converts into visible light? LED versions run at 80 to 90% energy efficiency and last up to 12 times longer than the older bulbs. The Energy Saving Trust says replacing all the bulbs in your home with LED lights would reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 40kg a year. That’s the same as the amount produced by a 145-mile car journey.
Source: Energy Saving Trust
Double- or triple-glazed windows
If your windows only have a single pane of glass, then you’ll be losing heat from your home. Double- or triple-glazed windows have two or three panes with gaps between them to stop heat escaping.
Insulation
Up to 25% of a home’s heating energy is lost through the roof. Put a stop to rising heat getting out with blanket loft insulation rolls, which can be altered to fit between joists in a loft.
Older homes sometimes have cavity walls, which are inner and outer walls with an air gap between them. Filling them with cavity wall insulation will keep more heat in – but you’ll need to check the construction of your home is compatible. Your energy provider might be able to help you cover some of the associated costs and work out which changes can be made. For help take a look at Discounted Home Improvements.
Source: Energy Saving Trust
Boilers
Having your boiler checked annually is important. A licensed engineer will be able to spot any faults and recommend repairs. This will ensure your boiler is working as well and as efficiently as possible. If you can afford it, consider replacing an older boiler with a brand new one. Modern systems use condensing technology which make them more energy-efficient than non-condensing systems.
Source: Energy Saving Trust
Heat pumps
As an eco-friendly alternative to a boiler system, consider having a heat pump installed. They extract heat from the ground, air or water and either transfer it to your home to warm it, or take it out of your home in summer to cool it. The government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers £5,000 off the upfront cost of installation.
Source: Gov.uk
Turn appliances off
Keeping appliances on standby may be handy for saving time, but it’s not good for saving energy. Taking your household appliances off standby could cut your electricity bill by at least 10%.
Source: Eco Home Essentials
