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5 ways to make your home more eco-friendly - and save money while you do it

Posted On Thursday, 21 July 2022 15:05

Your house might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about the climate crisis – but our homes are actually a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.

This is largely because most homes are fitted with gas boilers which require fossil fuels to run, while many homes are poorly insulated, requiring extra energy to stay warm.

The way we run our homes can also be damaging to the planet, from the amount of water we use to the number of appliances we leave running. 

Luckily, there are plenty of ways you can improve the eco-credentials of your home and save money in the long run.

Install a low-carbon heating system 

If you get your energy from a gas boiler, consider switching this out for a more sustainable heating system like a heat pump to make your home more eco-friendly and cheaper to run.

The government is currently offering grants of up to £5,000 to people who make the switch, while VAT cuts are also available to households installing eco-measures like solar panels.

If you aren’t able to change your heating system, you could alternatively switch to a renewable energy supplier like Good Energy or Ecotricity. 

Keep an eye on energy usage 

To save on carbon and cash, keeping a watchful eye on your energy usage is an easy win. 

Smart meters can help you keep track, while simple measures such as turning off appliances, keeping lids on pans while cooking and closing curtains at night can keep usage down. 

Install double or triple glazing 

Want to keep your home warmer for longer?

Double or triple glazing your windows is an easy and effective way to keep heat in – while keeping bills down.

Install eaves ventilation on your roof 

Ventilating your roof is another great way to keep heat in while preventing condensation build-up. 

Installing proper eaves ventilation is the best way to ensure your roof lasts longer and won’t require regular repairs – while also saving you money on energy bills.

Use water wisely 

Many of us waste water without realising, whether by taking lengthy showers or under-filling our dishwashers.

Water is a precious natural resource and being careful about your usage is a great way to make your home more environmentally-friendly.

Simple actions you can take include having shorter showers, making sure your dishwasher is full before you run it and running colder washing machine cycles. 

You could also consider installing a water butt on your roof to collect rainwater. This can then be re-used in your household for things like watering plants. 

With all these tips, you’ll be well on your way to an eco-friendly home that doesn’t cost the earth to run.

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