Lots of us are more aware than ever of our home’s impact on the environment and are making changes to our habits to live a greener life. There are lots of changes you can make to make your home greener, which not only helps the environment but can save you money on your bills at the same time.
Install Low-Flow Showers
A low-flow showerhead reduces the amount of water you use when you shower. Most conventional showers use 5 gallons of water per minute, while most low-flow heads use only 2.5 gallons. Less water used is good for the Earth, and your water bill.
Use Solar Panels
Installing solar panels is costly, but once they’re in, they can save you a lot of money. Using solar energy to heat water or power the lights will lower your bills, and in some places, you might get tax incentives for even more savings. Of course, solar panels also lower your use of fossil fuels, and are much kinder to the planet. You might be able to secure a grant to have the panels fitted. Do some research to see what is available in your area.
Fit Sealed Double Glazing
Double glazed windows help stop heat from escaping the house during the colder months and hot air from getting in during hot months. Once you’ve chosen them, make sure you seal all the windows properly. Add weatherstripping to the frames, put silicone caulk over any gaps or cracks or apply sheets of shrink film over the glass. This reduces the load on your heating and air-conditioning, so you can use it less and save on costs like Emergency AC Repair.
Turn Things Off At The Wall
Turning off appliances and electronics at the socket instead of leaving them on standby saves power and money.
Don’t leave phone chargers plugged in. Even without a phone connected, they’re still using up power and can be a fire hazard. Keep safe and save by unplugging them when your phone is done charging.
Use timer plugs to turn off appliances that you use at night, like the washing machine, after they’re finished.
Upgrade Your Boiler And Appliances
If your boiler is older, upgrade to a new one that is more efficient. You’ll waste less energy, which will pay back the investment.
Old appliances, like washing machines or dishwashers, can also be replaced to improve efficiency. As technology improves, new appliances are better at saving energy. The cost will save you money in the long-term.
Swap Your Lightbulbs
Energy-efficient halogen or LED bulbs have longer lives than regular bulbs and use less power to run. You’ll save money on having to replace bulbs, and on the reduced bills.
Reduce bills more by turning off lights you don’t need. Don’t leave lights on in a room you’re not in. If you have small children that need a light left on at night, invest in the most energy-efficient night light you can find, instead of leaving on lamps or lights in the hallway overnight.
