We all must do our bit in the battle to stop global warming and save the planet. If every person on Earth reduces their carbon footprint, then we may be able to slow down the decline of the planet. It doesn’t take much effort if we begin at a grassroots level in our own homes, but the impact can be huge. Here are 6 ways to make your home more green.
Install Solar Panels
Solar panels are made up of cells that absorb sunlight with photovoltaic (PV) cells. Sunlight is converted into direct current energy, which travels to an inverter, turning it into more user-friendly energy known as alternating current energy.
Electricity generated by the solar panels can be stored in a solar battery to be used at a later date. You can ensure your solar energy system remains efficient by employing a professional to give it a regular service and check-up. They may also advise you on how to check solar battery health so that you can spot any issues if and when they arise.
Change Light Bulbs
Swap all non-energy saving lightbulbs for light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Swapping all the light bulbs in your home can improve energy efficiency by up to 70%. LEDs do not give off heat or UV rays, making them super environmentally friendly.
Watch the Water
Be frugal with water. Do not switch a dishwasher on until it is fully loaded. Try not to wash your clothes too much – wear your clothes for a few days before washing them and when you do, wash them at a low temperature with an eco-friendly washing detergent.
Share a bath and shower with your partner and bathe young children together. Never leave a tap running, and be conscious of how much you are using when you perform everyday tasks such as brushing your teeth or washing your hands.
Set up a water butt in your garden to collect rainwater and use it to water plants, trees, and vegetables instead of using a hose attached to mains water.
Install Quality Insulation
Installing good quality insulation can cut your carbon footprint dramatically as your home will retain heat in winter and stay cool in summer. Your energy bills will be massively reduced too.
Seal the Gaps
If there are gaps between roof tiles, floorboards, around windows and doors in your home, seal them up to prevent drafts and heat loss. Replace ill-fitting, single-glazed doors and windows with energy-efficient, triple-glazed ones that fit flush into their surroundings.
Use Green Cleaning Products
Eco-friendly cleaning products do not release harmful chemicals into the atmosphere and ecosystems. Pouring chemicals down the sink can lead to them entering water bodies such as streams, lakes, and rivers, where it does untold damage to animals and plants. The toxic by-products also destroy the ozone, which increases global warming.
Think about everything you do in your home, every product you use. Think about the impact on the environment and the future of the planet.