Small changes can go a long way. Now more than ever, it’s becoming increasingly important to make sure that we think about the positive changes we can make to protect the planet. While not everyone can afford to make big switches, we can all make simple adjustments to help make our homes and lives more eco-friendly.
Your home is where you spend most of your time, so making small changes to how you use energy will add up to a big change. Whether it’s investing in energy-saving lightbulbs or switching to double glazed windows, you can easily adapt to a more sustainable lifestyle. To help you make simple changes, our handy guide will help walk you through 6 cheap and easy ways to make your home more eco-friendly.
1. Invest in energy-efficient light bulbs
Reducing the amount of energy that’s needed to power them, energy-efficient light bulbs have become increasingly popular over the years. Not only do they shine brighter and last for longer, but they’re also an efficient and cheap way to lower your electricity bill and reduce the carbon footprint of your home.
2. Install solar panels
Solar panels are safe, environmentally friendly and self-sufficient. Apart from the financial benefits, solar panels that are installed on the roof are a great way to contribute to a sustainable future.
Some of the benefits of solar panels include:
- Off-the-Grid home — Traditional electricity relies heavily on fossil fuels like natural gases and coal, and while they are not only bad for the environment, they’re also a limited resource. Solar power, however, only relies on the sun, which will never increase its rates. Solar battery storage systems can also help store ‘leftover’ electricity for nighttime use and rainy days.
- Less electricity loss —Electricity needs to be transported from power plants to the end-consumer and long-distance transmissions equal power loss. Rooftop solar power helps increase electric efficiency, and, due to the energy becoming domestic, means that you’re in control of your own energy bills and usage.
- Improvement of grid security — With so many people switching to solar power, we’re less likely to experience a drop in electrical power supply or suffer from a blackout.
Solar panels are most commonly known for being a clean and green source of energy, and while they can sometimes be costly, it pays off in the long run.
3. Use water-based paints
Currently, most paints that are used for home renovations are oil-based and not eco-friendly. Water-based paints look amazing and are much more resistant to UV rays, which allows them to retain their colour and sheen levels over long periods of time. Because of their low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) compared to solvent-based paints, they have a significantly lower environmental impact.
4. Insulate your home
If your home is well-insulated, it’ll retain heat properly. By making your home more efficient at trapping in the heat, you’ll cut the cost of your heating bills and help to reduce fossil fuel usage. A draught excluder is one of the quickest and easiest ways to make your home warmer and it can also add personality to any room.
If you’re looking for a more long-term solution, home insulation — such as in the roof, floors, window or doors — will help keep the desired temperature in your house all year round — whether it be protecting against cold in the winter or excess heat in the summer.
5. Use a recycling and compost bin
If you already own a recycling bin, chances are you’re already conscious about the decisions you make when it comes to recycling your glass, tins and cardboard.
Not only does it enrich the soil and help to retain moisture, a compost bin is also a great way to help the environment. Using your leftovers will give you free fertilizer you can use for your plants and helps to discourage food and household waste.
6. Opt for double-glazed windows
Gone are the days of unsightly double-glazed windows. Nowadays, double glazing can match the styling and aesthetic of your home and it’s also a great way to save money on your energy bills. The seal between your window panes is designed to not only keep the cold out, but to also prevent your precious heat from escaping.
Reducing the transfer of heat, double glazing improves the sustainability of your home by keeping it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter meaning you have a reduced energy usage. Therefore, living in a double-glazed home means you could save up hundreds of pounds on your energy bills each year.
Our top engineers at Cloudy2Clear regularly repair and replace steamed up double glazing. Whether it’s damaged glass or faulty window seals, our double glazing replacement repairs will leave your windows looking as good as new. If you need double glazing repairs, contact your local branch of Cloudy2Clear today HERE for your free, no-obligation quote.
