Lots of us are trying to make our homes more energy efficient. A more energy efficient home is not only kinder to the environment but can also save you money on your energy bills. There are some great ways to improve the energy efficiency of your home.
- Fit solar panels. Look into solar packages to find the most cost effective way of setting up your home with solar panels. In some areas, you can even get tax breaks for fitting them, as well as saving on the bills.
- Check your roof insulation. Could it be fitted with something more effective to maximise the savings? Proper insulation seals any air leaks and prevents the warm inside escaping during cold weather.
- Install a storm door. Even over an already efficient door, a storm door can protect your home from the weather. Keep the heat inside, and keep bad weather out.
- Check the energy rating on any new appliances you buy. Dishwashers, washing machines and fridges use a lot of electricity. Before committing, check how much power your new purchase will use, and choose the most efficient you can.
- Make sure you get your boiler and air conditioning serviced regularly. This makes sure they are running safely, and of course, as efficiently as they can be. If they’re running smoothly, they’ll use less power, saving you cash.
- Swap your desktop computer for a laptop. Laptops use 80% less electricity than a desktop machine. After the initial outlay, a laptop uses less energy and will save you money on the electric bill.
- Turn down the thermostat. Even lowering the thermostat by just a few degrees can make a real difference to your bills. Don’t heat rooms you’re not using, and get in the habit of turning the heating off when you’re not at home.
- Take shorter showers and turn down the water temperature. Save water and energy, with shorter, cooler showers. Reducing your time in the shower by just a few minutes can make a real difference. To really save water, swap your showerhead for a low-flow head, which use far less water than a standard showerhead.
- Switch off electronics that you’re not using at the wall instead of leaving them on standby. Electronics left on standby still use power, so switch them off. Phone chargers left plugged in without a phone attached are one of the worst culprits of this, so make sure you unplug them as soon as you’re done using them.
- Set the washing machine onto a cooler setting to do your laundry. The clothes will be washed just as well, but the machine won’t be using as much as power to heat up, saving you money and energy use.
- Swap the light bulbs for energy efficient bulbs. Not only are they better for the environment, but they last longer too. You won’t have to replace them as often, saving you money there too.
- Save water while doing the dishes by using a washing up bowl instead of just the sink. You’ll need less water to fill it and the water will stay warmer for longer.
