Are you concerned that the cost of your monthly bills is rising? Or perhaps you’re concerned that your home isn’t very environmentally friendly. Either way, now is a good time to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Here are 5 tips to help you become more energy efficient.
IMPROVE YOUR HEATING AND COOLING SYSTEMS
Where you live will depend on how much you use heating and air conditioning in your home, but one thing is for certain, you can reduce the amount of energy you consume.
Make sure that any heating or cooling systems you use are regularly serviced. This will keep them running at their optimum efficiency. Older systems will undoubtedly be less efficient than newer systems. So, if you’re thinking of replacing it with new, do your homework. Make sure you upgrade to the best energy-rated systems you can afford.
Although you’ll have to consider any new air conditioning, heat pump or boiler installation costs when replacing existing heating and cooling systems, don’t let the initial outlay put you off. Think about the long-term benefits.
ADD SOLAR PANELS
Particularly if you live in a warmer climate, it’s worth contemplating the installation of solar panels. But don’t think that they are just for use in sun-drenched states, solar panels can work even in cloudy weather.
If you’re unsure whether solar panels are a good choice for your home and budget, get a professional installer to survey your home before making any commitments. If the installation needs further work to your roof for instance, it may not be financially viable. Again, you’ll need to weigh up the long-term benefits.
DO YOUR MAINTENANCE
Make yourself a regular maintenance checklist to keep on top of those energy-sapping problems around your home.
What tasks can you do to make your home function better? Draughty windows and doors lead us to use our heating more. Whereas windows that are overshadowed by foliage will block light and lead us to use our lighting more. Go around your house and make a list of things that may need attention.
ADD INSULATION
Your home could benefit from insulation, or better insulation. Check whether your loft or attic space is insulated. If it is, but you’re not sure when it was installed, check the condition and thickness of the insulation you have. Could replacing it or adding to it improve your home’s warmth?
REDUCE YOUR ENERGY USAGE
And lastly, the easy bit. Do those little things to make a big difference over time. Change your light bulbs to energy efficient ones. Unplug electrical appliances when you’re not using them.
If you’re not sure where your energy usage could be improved, try using a smart meter. You’ll soon identify when and where your usage is high, so you’ll be able to take steps to reduce your energy consumption.
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