We all have a duty to find ways of reducing our carbon footprint, and if you are an eco-friendly homeowner who is looking to do what you can to reduce the amount of energy at home, here are some of the most effective ways to achieve your goal.
- Double Insulate your Roof – This can be done in several ways, depending on the type of roof you have, but for a standard tiled roof, it is possible to remove the tiles and add a layer of highly efficient insulation. This will reduce the amount of heat (or cool air) that leaves via the roof, thus saving you energy, and any good roofer would be able to handle such a project.
- Change your Windows – If you search online, there are energy efficient windows for sale, and at very affordable prices too, and by installing double glazing throughout, you can reduce your energy consumption by as much as 40%. Of course, replacing your windows is a considerable investment, but one that pays handsomely in the long term, and for many Australian homeowners, UPVC windows are the choice. There are many other benefits with UPVC double glazing; added security, sound insulation and home security all come with the package, and with so many attractive colours and designs, you will add value to the property too.
- Turn your Home onto Being Smart – Yes, we have already got the tech that enables your home to control itself; turning lights out when not in use, and always monitoring energy use for climate control. Motion sensors will automatically illuminate exterior areas and switch off when you have passed, which saves a lot of energy over a year. It wouldn’t be that expensive to connect everything to a main control panel, and using Bluetooth technology, you can automate many aspects, including controlled access and video surveillance.
- Convert to LED – Light emitting diodes will save a lot of energy, and although the initial investment is higher than traditional light bulbs, you do save in the long run, and this is one cost-effective way to save energy at home. LED lighting also offers you many aesthetic benefits, with a range of hues and colours, plus you can buy LED strips, which can be fitted under window ledges or even draped over trees.
- Go Solar – The ultimate in clean and renewable energy, installing a state-of-the-art solar energy system will allow to remove your home from the national grid, when you become part of the solution, not the problem. Top quality solar panels and deep cycle batteries will never be cheap, but in the long-term, it’s a no-brainer, and you see a ROI in around 4-5 years.
All of the above are great ways to reduce your carbon footprint, and whether you replace your old windows or add some roofing insulation, you are reducing your negative impact on the plant, at least to some degree. Soon, we will all be using solar energy, then the fossil-fuel burning power stations can be shut down and the amount of pollution will be greatly reduced.
