Sustainability isn’t only a trend, but it’s also an investment. Designing an eco-friendly home helps homeowners reduce running costs and increase the value of the home. From lowering monthly costs and increasing the home value, to reducing the impact that your home has on the environment. So, what does it mean to design an eco-friendly home? Here are a few practical tips to get started.
Thermal-passive design
Energy-efficient homes prioritise a thermal-passive design that involves insulation and the orientation of the home. To make the most of light and heat in the winter, countries in the Northern Hemisphere should be south-facing.
The home should have enough exposure to sunlight, without putting the structure at risk of extreme weather. Choosing a home nearby the grocery store, schools and other public facilities also helps to reduce carbon footprint.
Invest in solar energy
Even though Manchester only receives approximately 1 400 hours of sunshine a year, solar panels are still a worthwhile investment. The installation costs are higher, but the long-term savings are worth it, for both your wallet and the environment. When installing solar panels, make sure that there is enough roof area with the proper tilt, facing the right direction.
Take care with appliances
It’s possible to buy eco-friendly appliances that are designed with minimum energy consumption in mind, but you can also streamline the use of existing appliances. Consider the following ways to reduce the energy used by everyday appliances;
- Avoid using nighttime standby on appliances such as the TV, or charging your phone throughout the night
- Keep an eye on the temperature of the boiler and heating unit
- Maintain the coils of your fridge
- Clean the filter of your dryer
- Use cold water to wash laundry
- Fill the dishwasher before turning it on
Insulate your home
There are many benefits of insulating your home that can improve the energy efficiency of your building. Sealing all windows and doors, repairing any air leaks and hanging heavy curtains offers homeowners the chance to lower energy bills, reduce heat loss, and improve comfort. Having an airtight home in the chilly winter months is a great way to stay cosy while keeping the energy bill low.
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