With rising energy prices and scarcity of fossil fuels, energy companies and other industries are increasingly focusing on improving energy efficiency in Britain's homes. Reducing your carbon footprint doesn't have to involve expensive investment in new technologies, as many of the most essential steps you can take to minimise your energy usage can be as simple as flicking a switch.
Going green in your home is about more than just conserving the environment; with a more energy efficient property, you could enjoy huge savings on your energy bills too[N1]. Every room in your home could be using more energy than it requires, and even minor actions such as remembering to switch off lights when you leave a room could have large benefits[N2].
While some appliances like fridges and freezers are designed to operate around the clock, others can be easily switched off when not in use, rather than being left on standby - which costs the average home up to £30 per year in wasted energy[N3]. In case you loved this post and you wish to receive more info with regards to portland home energy auditing [1] please visit the site. Other habits could be pushing up your energy bills as well, such as heating more water than you need in the kettle, in pots and pans and even in the bath, as well as not shutting the fridge door as soon as you've taken something out which means it will require more energy to cool back down[N4].
Beyond changing your habits, there are many ways you can improve energy efficiency in your home by replacing energy-consuming products and fittings[N5]. Replacing light bulbs with energy-saving bulbs could save you between £5 and £10 per year, while larger investments such as cavity wall insulation, loft insulation and double glazed windows can be highly effective in retaining heat, keeping your property warmer in the winter as well as cooler in the summer[N6].
Those who are interested in taking energy efficiency further can find a number of organisations willing to offer free advice, and investigating options such as home insurance solar panels could be a wise investment in your property's future. Harnessing the renewable energy produced by the sun, solar panels can supplement a traditional energy supply in sunny weather, allowing home owners to shave significant amounts off their heating and electricity bills.
Homes will not be dependent on solar panels either, as during times of lower exposure, such as cloudy days, their property's standard energy supplies will still operate as normal. Your energy company may be able to offer advice on whether your home is a suitable candidate for solar panels.