Having an energy-efficient home is crucial for both environmental and economic reasons. In anera where environmental consciousness is vital to the health and wellbeing of the world around us, turning your home into an energy efficient sanctuary is an act of social responsibility.
An energy-efficient home not only benefits the environment but also translates into long-term financial savings by curbing utility costs – and for many of us, this is a must with the rising cost of living.
We’ve put together a guide that not only explains why an energy efficient home is essential, but what you can do to improve your abode.
Table of Contents
Why you need an energy efficient home
1) Environmental Impact
Having a positive impact on the environment is typically the primary driver behind the push to energy efficiency, and with more and more countries committing to Net Zero, it has become a global endeavour.
Fossil fuels and energy sources release significant amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. Not only are these resources damaging, but they are also depleting, and this has made their extraction more hazardous to the environment and more costly.
2) Financial Impact
One of the most tangible benefits of an energy-efficient home is the reduction in your household bills – and this is particularly important as our overall living costs are on the rise.
Energy-efficient practices can result in lower energy consumption, thus leading to significant cost savings over time. While some energy alterations can initially cost a lot, these savings can offset the initial investment required.
Energy efficiency also enhances the overall value of your home if you decide to sell. This is because prospective buyers are increasingly seeking properties that have energy efficient features due to the long-term financial savings that they offer. This makes adding these features an investment that could pay off at a later date.
3) Improved Quality of Life
Energy-efficient homes are well equipped to provide us with greater comfort as they are better at maintaining consistent indoor temperatures regardless of the season. Proper insulation and high-performance windows will ensure that your living spaces remain comfortable.
Many energy-efficient homes often prioritise air quality by incorporating advanced ventilation systems that improve filtration. This will help to reduce allergens and pollutants, in your indoor spaces – a great option for those who suffer from bad hay fever every summer!
4) Technological Innovation
The ongoing pursuit of energy efficiency has helped to stimulate the world’s technological innovation. It has led to increased research and development efforts and the creation of new technologies that drive progress in a wide variety of industries.
The push towards these energy efficient practices has also led to increased job creation in fields such as construction, manufacturing, and engineering. Not only does the increase in demand for these professions help to improve the world around us, but it gives skilled professionals a chance to pursue their dreams.
5) Social Responsibility
Energy-efficient homeowners not only do their part to help society combat climate change, but they set an example for their communities, inspiring others to adopt sustainable practices.
The impact of energy.efficient homes across the globe can significantly reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions and are vital for the protection of our planet.
How to make your home more energy efficient
1) Undertake an Energy Audit
Embarking on the path to an energy-efficient home requires you to embark on a thorough evaluation of your current energy consumption. This will allow you to identify potential areas of improvement.
The ideal solution is to consult a professional energy auditor; however, you can conduct an audit yourself through the inspection doors, windows, insulation, appliances, and lighting to identify any potential problems.
2) Upgrade Your Windows
Luckily, most homes now have double glazed windows, however there are still older properties that need to make this change.
Switching to double glazed windows can have a huge improvement on heat transfer in your home, allowing your rooms to stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
If you’re looking to upgrade your windows, consult with experts such as those at Halifax Glass. Their skilled team will be able to advise you on the best solution to your double glazing needs.
3) Use Energy Efficient Appliances
Modern appliances are accompanied by energy-efficient labels that clearly indicate their levels of energy consumption.
When shopping for new appliances, make sure to choose those that offer the best energy efficiency, this way you’ll know that not only are you helping to protect the planet, but you’re helping to cut costs for yourself as well.
4) Switch to LED Bulbs
Traditional incandescent bulbs are notoriously bad for our energy efficiency goals. While the change to LED bulbs can be initially more expensive, they also provide reduced energy consumption and last much longer. This makes the long term savings outweigh the short term costs.
If you’re looking for something a little different with your LEDs, consider using colour change options, such as those supplied by Philips Hue. Not only can you control your lights from your phone – meaning you’ll never forget to turn one off – but you can select whatever colour you like to suit your mood and aesthetic.
5) Find the Right Provider
Finding an energy provider who shares your passion for a greener future is a great way to help protect the planet and your pocket.
Companies such as Octopus Energy are committed to a greener future. Not only are Octopus an award winning energy provider, but all of their electricity comes from 100% renewable sources, such as water, wind, and solar.
By moving to a provider that shares your passion for the planet, you’ll be able to prioritise renewable energy and energy efficiency in your home.
6) Invest in Solar Power
While this is one of the more expensive energy alterations to your home, investing in solar panels can provide you with long term savings.
Not only can you generate your own power, but in many cases, you have the option to sell your power back to the grid.
Have you made your home more energy efficient? Share your journey to a green future in the comments below!
