10 Tips on How to Make Your Home Eco-Friendly

More people realize the idea and importance behind being eco-friendly. The majority manages to do some simple things like recycling without putting much thought into it. However, there are so many other ways you can implement eco-friendliness in your home. You will become more tech savvy and you will be saving the planet – win-win! Here is a list of 10 things you can do to live a more sustainable life.

Install a smart meter

It’s super helpful to have one of these installed in your home. During winter many people tend to leave the heating for longer than necessary. Heating systems and boilers are two of the biggest consumers of energy. A great way to fix this is to instal a smart meter. This device could be programmed to switch on only at specific times so that when you come home from work, your house will be already heated and nice. They help with the carbon footprint and with the energy bill. These devices will allow you to analyze and monitor your usage. 

Get energy efficient light bulbs

They are nothing new on the market. Those light bulbs have been around for years now, but recently people have learnt more about them and their benefits. Before, many consumers have complained that they don’t provide enough light, but this has been fixed. The new technology which has been used saves you electricity and it makes the light bulb very long-lasting. 

Install solar panels 

This is a long-term investment which will surely pay off in the future. With them you can actually go fully off grid.

Good insulation is key

If you have good insulation, your house will keep the heat for longer and save you energy needed for the reheating. It is the easiest way to save on your bills. Start by thinking about the roof and walls.

Underfloor heating is a great idea

Many people like using a more minimalistic approach to their heating. Underfloor heating can save you money in the long term. You don’t have to purchase a new home to have this type of heating – it could be easily installed in old houses too. 

Keep house repairs local

Get someone from around town to fix what is needed in your house. There is no need to employ a person from far away and make the whole project more expensive and complicated.  

Use water-based paints

When it comes to painting the walls, you should choose water-based paints with natural pigments. The paints which are oil-based are not so eco-friendly, plus the results after using the water-based are said to be much nicer. 

Double glaze your windows

You should try and have your entire house’s windows double glazed. This will save you money in the future and assist you in cutting down energy costs. Another plus is that your home will stay heated for longer. 

Pick wooden window frames

UPVC surrounds can be very polluting since they emit toxic compounds. It’s more eco-friendly to pick wooden frames that can be just as durable.

Eco-friendly cleaning

Many detergents and cleaning products we use could be harming the environment. Once they go down the drain are transported to the water supply, which then has to be purified again using a lot of energy. You can start small by using vinegar, lemon juice or bicarbonate of soda instead of bleach of detergent for disinfecting and removing smells. Try using steam cleaners too – they are the perfect green solution.