While not everybody is convinced that climate change and global warming are genuine threats to our world, there is one thing we can all agree on when it comes to energy efficiency – it costs when we don’t take heed of it. Of course, there’s an argument to say that it also costs to transform a home into a palace of energy-efficiency, but here are several features any energy-efficient home should have.
The ability to measure power usage
Given, this isn’t a definitive feature, and it actually involves some work on your part, too. However, you are actually the most crucial ‘feature’ in ensuring your home is running efficiently. You could install all the gizmos and gadgets money can buy, but unless you’re analysing their impact on your energy usage, they’re not really worth it. There are plenty of energy usage apps on the market, and your energy provider could also recommend one to work with their hardware.
Adequate insulation throughout
Poorly insulated walls and roofs can be a major cause of energy wastage. This is where the cost conundrum comes in, as a new roof, or improved wall or loft insulation isn’t exactly cheap. But how long do you plan on living in your home? It you have a mortgage that lasts a lifetime, you could invest a little extra to reduce your energy bills over that time. If a new, energy efficient loft or roof is required, look for roofers (Gateshead, Durham, Newcastle, or your part of the world), and talk over your options with a professional.
Install a water-saving showerhead
The assumption that a bath is less energy-efficient than a shower isn’t exactly without merit, but it does depend on how long you spend under the warm suds. Some power showers actually use more water in a few minutes than an entire bath. Unless you’re partial to a, let’s say, ultra-refreshing cold shower each day, all of that water will need heating before it hits you – and hits your energy usage. A water saving showerhead could also save a great deal of energy every single day.
See the saving power of solar panels
In the UK, the scepticism around solar panels is understandable. We suffer unpredictable summers, and can’t even guarantee a good Sunday for a barbecue. But how often in winter do you find yourself surprised by how clear the skies are, first thing in the morning? That’s a whole lot of natural solar power you could be missing out on. They won’t be enough to power your home all on their own, but it’s still widely reported that the installation of solar panels will pay for itself over the lifespan of the panels.
Eco-friendly appliances throughout
Energy-saving lightbulbs are a given, and can be bought in bulk to lower their initial cost. However, you can even get your hands on energy-saving kettles now, which can use up to 30% less power with each boil. Now, apply this sort of saving across other modern appliances, and imagine the saving throughout the home. When combined with positive, energy-efficient practices, such as switching off appliances and sockets when not in use, and, if you’ve implemented a way to measure your energy usage – you’ll be able to see it visibly reducing over time.
To read more on topics like this, check out the finances category.
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