These days we are all becoming more aware of the need to be eco-friendly, and when it comes to our homes there are many ways to reduce our carbon footprints. Here are just a few ideas to get you started.
Solar Panels
For anyone that wants to get serious about making their home eco-friendly, solar panels are an absolute must. You will be cutting the emissions of your household by producing clean electricity and ditching gas-powered heating for your water.
Solar panels are a long-term investment, however, on average it takes around 20 years to make your money back, but for those that live in a sunny climate it is possible to make enough energy not only to power your home but sell some back to the grid too!
With modern advances, such as the Tesla Powerwall, solar-powered energy is more reliable than ever as well. Providing better power storage and backup to diminish the possibilities of blackouts.
Smart Meters
Your boiler and home heating system are one of the biggest ways that you consume energy, and in the colder months of the year, it is extremely easy to leave the heating running longer than is strictly needed.
One of the easiest ways to curb this consumption is with a smart meter, a device that can be programmed to only come on at certain times of the day and turn down when things get a bit too toasty.
Home Insulation
Without proper insulation your home will not retain heat well, meaning wasted energy and higher bills.
Investing in high-quality insulation is one of the smartest ways to make your home eco-friendlier.
Your loft, basement and walls are the best places to start, while double glazed windows are an excellent option if you have a little more to spend.
For a cheaper option look into draught excluders to go beneath your doors, or thermal wallpaper for your bedroom and living spaces, finally, area rugs are a great, and stylish option, to cover any cooler hardwood areas of your home.
Energy-Efficient Bulbs
Energy-efficient lightbulbs have been around for quite a while now, but in the past people have been turned off by lacklustre performance.
The technology is constantly being worked on, however, and these days energy-efficient bulbs easily offer as much light as their less eco-friendly counterparts.
Not only do these bulbs consume less electricity, but they also last significantly longer than old incandescent lights, meaning less waste and more money in your pocket.
Recycle and Upcycle
Shabby chic is in and recycled and upcycled furniture is both a fashionable and eco-friendly way to furnish your home.
Check out antique stores, flea markets and online auction sites the next time you are looking to replace a large piece of furniture, sometimes all it takes is a bit of love and some fresh paint to give an old bit of furniture a new lease of life.
If you do want to buy new, then look for products made from recycled wood or other sustainable materials, you are still getting a new sofa, but one that has been crafted with care and thought for the planet.
