In today’s environmentally conscious world, making sustainable choices for our homes isn’t just a trend; it’s a necessity. This was backed up by a survey conducted by Centrica last year that showed 55% of people thought we should be making our homes more sustainable and 47% had already taken steps to do this.
From reducing energy consumption to minimising waste, every small change contributes to a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle. As experts in windows, doors, and conservatories, Glevum understands the importance of sustainable living. In this blog post, we’ll explore ten actionable steps you can take to make your home more sustainable, with a focus on energy-efficiency, conservation, and eco-friendly practices. There is also the happy coincidence that several of these also save you money as well saving the planet.
Energy-Efficient Windows
You would of course expect this to be first on the list. Investing in energy-efficient windows can significantly reduce heat loss during winter and minimise heat gain in summer. This of course then reduces the need for heating and cooling and cuts your energy bills. They also come with the added benefits of aesthetic appeal, better sound-proofing and enhanced security.
Insulation Upgrades
Improving insulation throughout your home, including walls, floors, and attics, helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature year-round while lowering energy consumption. Consider eco-friendly insulation materials like cellulose, wool, or recycled fiberglass for a sustainable option.
Solar Panels Installation
Harnessing solar energy through photovoltaic (PV) panels not only reduces your reliance on grid electricity but also lowers your carbon footprint. Explore options for solar panel installation on your roof or in your garden to generate clean, renewable energy for your home.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Upgrade old, energy-guzzling appliances with high-efficiency models bearing the ENERGY STAR label. From refrigerators to washing machines, energy-efficient appliances consume less electricity, saving you money on utility bills while benefiting the environment. For example, something as simple as an energy efficient kettle can save 20% of energy use compared with an older less efficient model – so these improvements don’t have to costs the earth (pun intended).
Also though it is crucial you think about how you use these appliances for – how long, how full and at what temperature, in certain cases.
Water Conservation Measures
Implement water-saving fixtures such as low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads to minimise water wastage. Additionally, consider collecting rainwater for watering the garden or installing a greywater recycling system to reuse water from sinks and showers. If you switch to being charged by your water usage via a smart meter rather than annual rates – you could save around £150 or benefit even more if you reduce your usage.
Sustainable Flooring Choices
Opt for eco-friendly flooring materials like bamboo, cork, reclaimed wood, or recycled tiles to reduce the environmental impact of your home. These sustainable options not only look stylish but also promote responsible resource management.
LED Lighting
Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights throughout your home. LED bulbs consume significantly less energy, last longer, and produce less heat, making them a sustainable lighting choice for indoor and outdoor spaces. The UK Government own estimates show that LEDs use up to 90% less energy and last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Eco-Friendly Landscaping
Transform your outdoor space into a sustainable oasis by incorporating native plants, drought-resistant landscaping, and permeable surfaces. These eco-friendly landscaping practices conserve water, promote biodiversity, and enhance curb appeal. When you have your garden picture perfect maybe you might want to consider a Conservatory allowing you to enjoy your garden all year round.
Smart Home Technology
Embrace smart home technology to optimise energy usage and enhance convenience. From programmable thermostats to smart lighting systems, these innovative solutions help you monitor and control energy consumption for a more sustainable lifestyle. They are also easy to install and use – with lots of mobile phone-controlled systems like Kasa with their bulbs and plugs.
Make full use of the recycling facilities available to you
Most of us have either weekly or fortnightly recycling collections for food waste, plastics, bottles, tins, cardboard, and garden waste. Are you recycling as much as you can though – old furniture, clothes, books, or toys can go to charity shops and there are local drop-off points in many supermarket car parks and door-to-door collections of clothes for charities.
By implementing these ten sustainable home improvements, you can create an eco-friendlier and energy-efficient living environment for yourself and future generations. At Glevum Windows, Doors, and Conservatories, we’re committed to helping homeowners make environmentally responsible choices for their homes. Contact us today to find out about our stylish range of energy-efficient UPVC and aluminium windows and doors. Call us on 0800 332255 or visit www.glevum.co.uk.
Together, let’s build a greener tomorrow, one home at a time – we can all play our part.