8 Simple Ways to Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly

Increasingly, more of us are looking for ways to live a greener, more eco-friendly lifestyle. Making changes to our homes is one of the best places to start, as this is where we spend most of our time. Small adjustments to our daily habits and upgrading some appliances can have a big impact on reducing our carbon footprint. Read on for eight simple ways you can turn your home into an eco-haven.

1. Use Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

One of the easiest switches you can make is to energy-efficient LED light bulbs. They use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. Make sure to choose bulbs with an Energy Rating of A or B. The initial cost may be higher, but you’ll save money on your electricity bills in the long run.

2. Install Double Glazing

If your home has single-glazed windows, consider upgrading them to double-glazing. This vastly improves insulation, reducing heat loss in winter and helping keep your home cooler in summer. Professional installation of double glazing can be pricey, but the energy savings often make it worth the investment.

3. Install a Wood Burning Stove

Wood burning stoves provide an eco-friendly way to heat your home using a sustainable fuel source. Opting for a wood burning stove installation by professional wood burner installation services ensures your stove is safely and efficiently fitted. Installing a wood burner not only reduces your carbon footprint but can cut heating bills too.

4. Draught Proof Your Home

Lots of valuable heat is lost due to draughts around doors, windows and floorboards. Draught proofing using seals, strips, and excluders is an easy DIY job that can make a big difference. Seal up any sneaky gaps that let cold air in and warm air out.

5. Use Energy-Efficient Appliances

When old appliances need replacing, choose the highest energy rating your budget allows. Models rated A+++ are the most efficient. Prioritise highly used items like fridges, washing machines and dishwashers. Smart meters can help track how much energy each appliance uses.

6. Install Solar Panels

Solar panels enable you to generate your own renewable electricity. Excess energy can even be sold back to the National Grid through the Smart Export Guarantee. Though installation costs are high, savings on energy bills usually make them a sound investment.

7. Insulate Your Home

Improving your home’s insulation keeps warmth in and reduces energy usage. Loft insulation is effective and DIY friendly. Cavity wall insulation requires professional installation but could save up to £175 per year. Solid wall insulation is pricier but may be worth considering if walls are uninsulated.

8. Grow Your Own Produce

Reduce food miles and plastic packaging by growing your own fruit and veg. Plant in the garden if you have one, or get creative with pots and containers on balconies, patios and indoor windowsills. Herbs, salad greens, tomatoes and strawberries are great for beginners. Homegrown produce tastes so much better too!

With climate change a very real threat, we all have a part to play in reducing our environmental impact. Luckily, there are so many practical, affordable ways we can turn our living spaces into eco havens. Little lifestyle tweaks add up to make a big difference while investing in home improvements like double glazing and solar panels pay off in the long run.