These days, many people have begun to turn their attention toward their consumer choices and lifestyle, and are seeking ways to be more conscious of the planet and its precious resources. One of the ways in which people are taking ownership of their carbon footprint and reducing the damage done to the planet in terms of pollution, climate change, and the depletion of natural resources is by being more energy-efficient in their own homes.
If you are feeling the call to live a more eco-friendly life and are keen to reduce your energy expenses each month, this article will highlight some simple ways in which you can contribute to a more sustainable planet by adopting the following eco-friendly habits around your home.
Insulate
One of the best ways to reduce your energy consumption is by ensuring your home is well insulated. Invest in good quality thermal insulation to ensure your house maintains a pleasant climate no matter the temperature outside.
A well-insulated home prevents air from escaping through openings such as windows and doors, reducing energy waste and reducing the need to burn fossil fuels in the winter to heat the property.
In addition to your walls and roof, make sure your doors and windows are in good repair and do not let in drafts or let air leak out through any cracks or gaps. If you are looking to replace your doors, DoorsPlus.com.au has a wide selection to choose from.
Replace Your Light Bulbs
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, by 2035 the energy savings generated from the widespread use of LED lighting could equal the annual energy output of more than 92 1,000 megawatt power plants.
You can make your home more eco-friendly by replacing your light bulbs with LEDs which use up to 90% less electricity than conventional incandescent bulbs and 70% less than halogen bulbs. In addition to their energy efficiency, LEDs have a very long lifetime and can last up to 25 years based on usage of around three hours per day.
Another option is to consider green energy options in terms of your energy supplier. There are many service providers on the market today that offer energy plans based on 100% clean, renewable energy.
Install Solar Panels
Solar panels convert light energy from the sun into electricity, providing a sustainable and clean energy source to power your home. Not only is this great for the environment but it will also significantly reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, saving you money.
While you will incur a cost when you install solar panels, in the longer term you will save money on your energy bills. According to some estimates, the savings could be as much as $10,000 to $30,000 over the lifespan of the solar panels.
By being more self-reliant in your energy generation you will naturally consume less energy by going off-grid thereby reducing your dependence on fossil fuels and lessening the harmful impact on the planet.
By applying some of the ideas in this article you can make your home a more eco-friendly place to live while making significant savings on your overall energy expenses and contributing to the welfare of this planet.
