In the wake of the global climate emergency, most of us are taking stock of our own personal impact on our environment.
Currently, it is estimated that 17 million UK homes have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of C or below. We also know that around 14% of the UK’s carbon emissions result from the use of energy to heat our homes.
One way to significantly lower this figure is to improve the energy efficiency of our homes. As home eco retrofit specialists, we want to work together with you to help reduce our impact on the planet, ultimately resulting in cosier, happier and healthier homes for all.
On a macro scale, comprehensive ‘Whole House Retrofit’ improvements such as solid wall insulation , installing photovoltaic or solar water heating panels and replacing windows would be first on our list of home retrofit to-dos. Some of these improvements have proved transformational to the homeowners in our case studies here. However, there are other simpler improvements that aren’t as extensive and can be managed on a smaller budget.
So, if you’re interested in doing your bit for the environment and want to get started immediately, here are 5 practical and straightforward ways to lower your environmental impact at home.
1: Install low energy lighting in all rooms
First and foremost, whether you’re using standard lights, downlighters or spotlights, installing energy efficient light fittings in all rooms is a simple way to make energy savings. Still, be advised to turn off lights when not needed, even low-energy lights!
2: Invest in the most energy efficient electrical appliances
Secondly, purchase household appliances with low embodied energy, efficient energy consumption and recyclable at the end of their life. Find the most energy efficient appliances using current EU energy ratings.
3: Turn down the thermostat
Turning down your thermostat even by 1 degree could lower your energy consumption by up to 10 per cent a year. This tip is very easy to do, comes with no additional cost and you will reap immediate and significant savings. If you don’t already have a room thermostat or other heating controls, consider installing them.
4: Install eco-friendly humidity controlled extractor fans
Installing humidity-controlled extractor fans in your kitchen and bathroom is one of the best ways to control moisture and comfort levels in your home and conserve energy. Poorly ventilated kitchens and bathrooms can lead to condensation, which in turn can cause mould. Inhaling microscopic mould spores can trigger a range of respiratory conditions such as asthma, dust allergies and hayfever. It is simply not worth the health risk to you and your family.
5: Install a smart-meter in your home
Moving into the next generation, yet another device has now become ‘smart’ and that’s your meter! No more need to take manual meter readings; the smart-meter sends electronic readings directly to your energy supplier.
Not only cutting down on paperwork supplier-side, smart-meters help you stay on top of your energy use, allowing you to better budget and keep a track of how much energy you’re using. It’s a foolproof way to monitor and work to lower your environmental impact. Contact your energy supplier to find out more about how you can get a Smart Meter.
GPT Rewrite
Title 1: “5 Easy Steps to Transform Your Home into an Eco-Friendly Haven”
Title 2: “Cosy Homes Oxfordshire: Your Ticket to an Energy-Efficient and Planet-Friendly Home!”
Article: Simple and Effective Ways to Lower Your Environmental Impact at Home
In today’s world, where the climate emergency looms large, many of us are reflecting on our personal contribution to the environment. Did you know that a staggering 17 million homes in the UK have an Energy Performance Certificate rating of C or below? It’s no wonder that around 14% of the country’s carbon emissions are attributed to home energy usage.
But fear not! There’s a solution that not only helps save the planet but also brings comfort, happiness, and health to your home. As dedicated home eco retrofit specialists, we’re here to join forces with you in reducing our impact on the planet, resulting in cozier, happier, and healthier homes for all.
Now, when we think about comprehensive “Whole House Retrofit” improvements like solid wall insulation, photovoltaic or solar water heating panels, and window replacements, they indeed make a massive impact. Our case studies have shown incredible transformations for homeowners who have embraced these upgrades. However, we understand that not everyone has an extensive budget or is ready for such significant changes just yet.
So, if you’re eager to make a difference and want to get started right away, we have five practical and straightforward ways to lower your environmental impact at home.
Illuminate with Efficiency: Install low-energy lighting in all rooms. Whether you prefer standard lights, downlighters, or spotlights, opting for energy-efficient light fittings is a simple way to save energy. Remember, even with low-energy lights, it’s essential to turn them off when not needed!
Power Up Wisely: Invest in the most energy-efficient electrical appliances for your home. Look for appliances with low embodied energy, efficient energy consumption, and the ability to be recycled at the end of their life. The current EU energy ratings can help you find the most energy-saving options.
Find Your Comfort Zone: Turn down the thermostat. Lowering your thermostat by just one degree can lead to a significant reduction of up to 10% in your annual energy consumption. This easy and cost-free tip will provide immediate savings. If you don’t have a room thermostat or other heating controls, consider installing them for even better control.
Breathe Easy: Install eco-friendly humidity-controlled extractor fans in your kitchen and bathroom. These fans are excellent for managing moisture levels in your home and conserving energy. Poorly ventilated spaces can lead to condensation and mold, which can trigger respiratory conditions. Protect your health and that of your family by ensuring proper ventilation.
Smart Solutions: Install a smart meter in your home. Say goodbye to manual meter readings! Smart meters automatically send electronic readings to your energy supplier. Not only does it cut down on paperwork, but it also helps you stay on top of your energy use, budget better, and track your consumption. It’s a foolproof way to monitor and reduce your environmental impact. Contact your energy supplier to learn more about getting a Smart Meter.