It's hard to ignore the numerous warnings urging us to live more sustainably. With more than a quarter (26%) of environmental harm originating from our homes, it's a prime area to begin making impactful changes. Creating a more sustainable home can often be easier on the wallet.
Many sustainable upgrades, like solar panels and heat pumps, come with hefty price tags, making it understandable why many hesitate to invest. However, according to MyBuilder, with a trusted platform for hiring tradespeople, you can employ several cost-effective sustainability hacks.
Numerous strategies are suitable for various budgets and homes, from leveraging government grants for sustainable heating systems to repurposing rainwater.
Andy Simms, from MyBuilder, said that many homeowners could be surprised by how affordable some sustainability improvements could be.
"While it's obvious that certain improvements, such as installing solar panels or replacing all your windows, can be very expensive, there are many other less expensive options to consider.
"From better insulation to collecting your rainwater, there are many excellent ideas to implement in your homes. Some require expert help, but there are others you can do yourself, so why not research your options?"
Here is MyBuilder's guide to simple tips for making your home more sustainable without breaking the bank:
Air Source Heat Pump
Recent data from MyBuilder indicates that 54% of Brits are unaware of the cost of a new boiler. While installing a new heating system is expensive, available grants can make it more feasible. The Government Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers up to £7,500 towards a boiler, valid until 2025.
Insulate Your Home
Adequate insulation is invaluable for a comfortable home. It keeps you warm in winter, reducing energy bills, and cool in summer, reducing the need for fans or air conditioning units. This not only benefits your bills but also the environment. Professional insulation is ideal, but cheaper options like draft excluders and ensuring good seals on windows and doors can also help.
Low VOC Paints
Refreshing your walls is inevitable, but paint can harm the environment and your home's inhabitants. Opt for paints low in volatile organic compounds (VOC), which don't use fossil fuels and don't release toxic fumes into your home.
Rainwater Harvesting System
With the frequent rains this year, there are advantages to be had. Rainwater can be utilized for your garden and even inside your home. Harvesting rainwater can be as simple or complex as you prefer. Start by arranging gutters to funnel water into a container, like a water butt. Experts can install filtration systems and underground pipes leading to a storage tank for more extensive use.
Hang Your Clothes
Tumble dryers are costly and harmful to the environment and your clothes. Air drying is a better solution, though space and dampness can be challenges. Consider hiring a tradesperson to create bespoke hanging areas, such as in high ceilings above stairs, fold-away options in laundry rooms, or outside windows.
Reuse Your Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds shouldn't be poured down the sink as they can cause blockages and contribute to sewer fatbergs. Instead, reuse them as fertilizer for your plants. Coffee grounds provide a safe, effective alternative to chemical fertilizers and pesticides, offering nitrogen, phosphates, and potassium beneficial for plant growth and soil health.
Living Roof
A living roof is a fantastic way to aid the environment if you have limited outside space. Properly installed, living roofs provide shade, remove heat from the air, and reduce the temperature of the roof surface and surrounding air. Green roofs can moderate the heat island effect in cities, with temperatures 30-40°F lower than conventional roofs. Consult an expert to understand the costs.
Regular Boiler Servicing
Regular boiler servicing might seem obvious, but research by MyBuilder shows that 23% of homeowners skip this step. Neglecting boiler maintenance can damage and invalidate your insurance if something goes wrong. Keeping your boiler in good condition ensures it runs efficiently, benefiting your bills and the environment.
Implement these simple yet effective home hacks to sustain your property without straining your budget.
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