There are a number of motivations for residents wanting to reduce their energy consumption. Some are motivated by the environment, seeking to reduce their carbon footprint via their energy use. Others are keenly watching their energy metre, wanting to lower the cost of their utility bills and spend as little as possible without compromising their comfort significantly.
Regardless of the reason why, there are a number of ways in which modern homes can be designed and improved to expend less energy. As the cost of living increases and environmental concerns become ubiquitous, such an interest is not only justified but encouraged. With this in mind, we’re sharing five great energy-saving designs for you to begin considering at home.
Draught-Proofing
A home can do very well to mask its draughts, even older properties. The fact is, however, many homes will be susceptible to draughts, whether from the windows, doorways, or even cracks. While it may seem pointless to remedy what isn’t directly noticeable, a home that lets in significant airflow will take more energy to heat and is unlikely to ever feel as warm as it could.
For those curious about how much air their home is letting in, there is the cling film test, which involves covering your window frame in cling film. This cheap and easy process can highlight just how significant a draught really is or even reveal one that you didn’t know was there.
Sun Rooms
Having a dedicated room for sunlight is a great way to create a space that is useful in both summer and winter, despite these living spaces often being referred to as summer houses. Depending on their design, summer houses can be cool spaces that are open to nature, being ideal for a natural respite from the summer heat. Or, depending on their insulation, can be an ideal winter escape that saves having to put the heating on in a central living space.
Solar Panels
While solar panels offer a fantastic opportunity for carbon offsetting in the home, their popularity is also due to the amount with which they can save homeowners money. In this sense, their benefit is twofold. Firstly, they generate electricity that can reduce the amount a household uses (and there for spends money on). Secondly, depending on your energy provider, they can actually supply power to the grid for which a home is compensated for.
Smart Boiler
Heating a home and powering a boiler were, historically, enigmatic tasks. One wouldn’t really know the power being used until a bill was delivered. Now, however, there are a number of smart devices that communicate consumption immediately. Additionally, there are smart boilers that not only accurately measure and share power consumption but also allow for the boiler to be controlled remotely too.
Wet Appliances
Washing machines, tumble dryers, and dishwashers are consistently the highest consumers of energy in a home. As such, reducing their usage can dramatically save a household money on their bills. While not necessarily a design, swapping these assets for more energy-efficient alternatives can dramatically improve energy consumption in the long run.