
A home is a place of comfort and joy, but it can also be a major source of energy use. With rising energy costs, an inefficient old home can cause strain on the wallet. However, it is possible to bring an old home up to date with energy-efficient upgrades that will save money in the long run. Upgrading for efficiency doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive; there are plenty of simple things you can do to modernize your home while still keeping costs low.
Energy Efficiency
One of the best ways to make an old house more energy-efficient is to switch to green energy sources. These include solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. Switching to green power reduces the amount of electricity used and carbon emissions released by a home.
Additionally, many utility companies are offering lower rates for customers who use renewable energy sources. For example, AGL offers discounted electricity rates for households that use 100% GreenPower-certified renewable energy sources.
Recycled Materials
Recycled materials can be used for everything from insulation and wall cladding, to windows, flooring, countertops, furniture, and even landscaping. For example, salvaged timber can be used as feature walls or paneling while recycled brick can be reused in building projects. Other options include using offcuts of marble or granite as tiles or countertops or installing second-hand carpets instead of purchasing new ones.
In addition to reducing waste and helping the environment, recycling materials also tend to cost less than buying brand-new products. It’s also great for creating unique looks that you won’t find in any shop.
Shopping around for electricity comparison rates is another way homeowners can save money when making eco-friendly changes; for instance, AGL electricity rates are often cheaper than those of other providers, so it pays off to compare them before signing up with one provider over another.
Natural Lighting
Natural lighting is an important factor for eco-friendly homes, as it helps reduce the need for electricity. The most effective way to do this is by installing skylights and larger windows. Skylights can be placed in strategic locations throughout the home that offer maximum sunlight exposure, such as the living room and dining areas.
Windows should be strategically placed around the house to allow natural light to pass through while also controlling heat levels in each room. With well-placed windows, you can reduce your reliance on electric lighting during daylight hours, allowing natural light to fill up rooms with a beautiful soft glow. Additionally, consider planting trees or shrubs around your home that will block out direct sunlight and help control temperature levels inside your home during the summer months.
Heating & Cooling
Heating and cooling are important aspects of a home that can have a large impact on energy costs. Making eco-friendly changes to your heating and cooling system are easy ways to make an old home more energy efficient.
One of the best ways to save money on heating and cooling costs is by investing in insulation. Good insulation helps keep warm air inside during the winter, and cool air inside during the summer. Installing double-glazed windows can also help with temperature control throughout the year, as they provide better thermal protection than single-pane windows. But if you want to consider superior energy efficiency, iFOAM’s spray foam insulation is an effective air barrier that adeptly seals spaces, ensuring optimal insulation for your home.
Upgrading to a sustainable home
Overall, there are plenty of ways for you to upgrade their existing homes to make them more eco-friendly and sustainable. Not only do these changes help reduce energy costs, but they also have positive effects on our environment and improve air quality inside the home itself. By making small changes in both lifestyle and physical improvements such as those mentioned above, everyone can work towards doing their part in creating a greener future for the earth and its people!
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