The national consciousness seems to be shifting into greener hues, and with the creeping realisation that the world’s resources are finite, people are looking at ways to behave in a more mindful way towards the environment. And about time too. While this is easy to put into practice on a habitual, everyday scale, homeowners often neglect to address issues within their living space which could be doing unnecessary damage to our world.
With the recent budget promising help to first time buyers, it could be the ideal time to invest in being greener. According to reports, spending on eco-friendly assets for your house can increase the value of property by as much as 38%, while it will also cut down on the UK’s emissions and save money on bills, too. So, by helping the environment you can also help your bank balance; socially conscious or selfish, everybody wins. Here are 5 IDEAL ways to make your home more eco-friendly.
USE SOLAR PANELS
Solar panels are a huge investment – it’s no secret – but they’re also a wise one for a number of reasons. Firstly, aside from the actual value of the panels giving financial worth, you’ll find extra value when it comes to EPC (Energy Performance Certificate). Upgrading your certificate from a D to a band B certificate by installing panels, for example, could add around £16,000 to your home. You’ve also got the appeal of lower bills too which, naturally, everyone wants. Finally, and most importantly, of course, is that they don’t generate greenhouse gases.
INSULATE
You’d be amazed at just how much of a difference insulation can make. Adding both cavity wall insulation and roof insulation can save as much as £500 per year between them and will improve your EPC considerably. If you’re looking to sell on your eco-friendlified home for profit, be aware that most potential homebuyers will now be asking about insulation, so it’s well worth ticking all the boxes if you want to get your house sold.
UPGRADE YOUR BOILER
A brand new, eco-friendly boiler will allow your home to run much more efficiently and will see your bills reduce noticeably. A boiler should be renewed or upgraded every 10 years or so. The effects of a faulty, antiquated boiler on the environment are tangible, so if it’s coming up to that period, it’s well worth investing.
DOUBLE GLAZE
If your windows are only single glazed, heat will be being lost through them and will no doubt be having a significant impact on your EPC. Installing the latest pane technology will ensure as little heat as possible is lost via the windows and even if you can’t afford the very latest, double glazing is a must. The trapping in of hot air will significantly lower the necessity for central heating being on; good for the planet and the bills, then.
TAP INTO WATER SAVING TECHNOLOGY
Excessive water use is a drain on the bills and the globe, so first things first, get any leaks fixed. Next, consider investing in the plethora of water saving gadgets currently out there and available for the domestic space. Additionally, always apply mindful practice when using water in the home; take shorter showers, don’t leave the tap running when brushing your teeth, fill a bowl when washing up….you get the picture.
