Whether it’s air pollution or the heaters in our homes, one way or another, you influence the environment. You probably do your part in conserving the environment—like recycling paper and plastic—but when you think about it, there are many other ways you can do so much more.
In your home, cutting on your energy usage will not only save you money, but it will also save the environment. And that’s just the start. From opting for skylight installation Melbourne homes can accommodate, to saving water, there are many ways we can become ‘greener’.
In this article we’ll discuss 6 ways how you can make your home eco-friendlier. From a Velux skylight installation to something as simple as changing your light bulbs.
Consider Installing a Smart Meter
One of the biggest ways homeowners and renters consume energy is by using heating systems. In the cold Australian winters, many people become reluctant to switch off the heaters or take quick showers, and they often don’t realise how much energy they consume.
Having a smart meter installed can be a real eye-opener to this problem and can help you save energy without any extra effort. A smart meter is designed to switch appliances on and off according to a timer. This way you can have your heater turned on for a short while before you arrive home from work or before you wake up in the morning, so the interior feels comfortable and you’ll be less inclined to crank up the heating.
Invest in Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
The usage of bed lamps and lights increases especially in winter when nights are longer. Replacing your old-fashioned globes with energy efficient bulbs can save you a lot of money on your energy bill. Not only do they use less electricity, but they don’t need to be replaced nearly as often as the older bulbs many households use.
In the past there have been complaints about these bulbs not supplying enough light or having a delay in lighting up a room. However, their technology is ever improving and now more than ever, it’s the perfect time to make the switch. Even if you install more fixtures but use energy efficient bulbs, it will still cut your energy bill.
Replace Artificial Lighting with Skylights
Want to hear of something even better than energy saving lights? Natural light! These days more and more people are prioritising the go green mindset and it sparks innovative solutions, like high quality skylights.
Skylights have become increasingly popular in residential and commercial properties and can decrease the need for artificial lighting. In addition, skylights can also help you reduce your energy usage as they decrease the need for heating or cooling systems. Some installations are also great for ventilation.
Thanks to these features, skylights can reduce the need for air-conditioning in summer, and heating in winter, saving you money all year round.
Invest in Solar Panel Installations
Solar energy helps reduce nitrogen and carbon emissions that are harmful to the environment. Although solar panel installations may be costly initially, it will save you a lot of money in the long run, not to mention increasing the value of your property. Several skylight installations are also compatible with small solar panels.
Solar installations are an essential feature when it comes to being more energy efficient, and in some cases, they allow you to go completely off grid.
If you’re worried about being able to afford solar, don’t worry, as there are several financing options available.
Install a Low Flow Shower Head
So, enough about energy usage. What about water consumption? Although showering uses less water than bathing, you’re still able to reduce water usage by installing a low flow shower head. They can reduce water consumption by 40% or more. It may not sound like much, but this will make a huge difference to your water bill in the long run.
Many low flow shower heads are designed to create a strong current flow while still reducing the amount of water wasted.
Did we mention that saving water during your shower time also saves energy?
Think Green When Cleaning
What effect does your cleaning products have on the environment? It’s not so much the presence of cleaning chemicals, but rather the absence of it that makes a difference.
You probably use cleaning products without really thinking about it. It gets washed down the drain, so why worry about it? However, once it accesses the water supply, it takes a lot of time and effort—and energy—to purify the water at treatment works. Several cleaning detergents can be replaced with natural items such as lemon juice, vinegar, or bicarbonate of soda.
Click here – 7 Reasons Why Recliners Are a Must-Have In Your Home
Conclusion
Looking to reduce your carbon footprint? We all have a responsibility to protect our beautiful planet and there are several small changes, as discussed in this article, that can help avoid further damage to mother nature. Will you join the green movement?