Rated ExcellentEnergy Saving Tips for Your Home
Energy saving tips is a hot topic at the minute! From the rise in electric vehicles to people simply being more cautious in their home and daily lives. There are many things you can do daily to save energy in your home, but here we will focus on the bigger, long-term investments you can make to save energy, money and also, protect the environment.
The longer term investments can be pricey in the short-term, but they are totally worth it in the long run as they have a long-term effect. And, the good news is that if you’re handy around the house, you’ll easily be able to carry out these jobs yourself!
Looking to save energy and money? Read on to learn about some top tips for saving energy within your home.
1. Boost Energy Efficiency By Checking Your Insulation
Insulation is such an important part of your home. Well made and fitted insulation not only keeps the house warm or cool but it is absolutely essential if you want to retain energy and save money. There’s lots you need to consider before insulating your home though, from the climate you live in to the material you want to use.
The R-value of insulation and what value you’ll need is one of the biggest aspects to think about when insulating your home to save energy. The higher the R-value, the greater the effect of the insulation will be. For exterior walls, it is common to look for insulation with an R-value of 13-23 (adjust depending on the climate you live in). You can choose from: fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool and cotton. If you already have some insulation installed, you can use the same material or top up with different material.
Insulation is not just for cold climates, it is just as important for hot, dry climates in order to keep your home cool. A well insulated house can provide relief from the hot sun. Insulation with an R-value of 13 is your best option.
2. Focus On Improving Attic Insulation
We all know that heat rises, which means attic insulation is one of the best ways to retain heat in your home. A well insulated attic often means the temperature of your home will be well regulated for either hot or cold months. When insulating your attic, the requirements are different to exterior walls. Typically, it is recommended to look for: an R-value of 30 for warm climates; an R-value of 38 for mild climates; and an R-value of 49 for colder climates.
If this makes you wonder about the efficiency of your home, you’re not alone! If you want to take a stab at insulating your attic to have money, or of insulating your attic and turning it into a living space - we got you covered. Our guide on attic insulation explains all you need to know about the process.
3. Retain Airflow By Filling in Gaps and Cracks
Do you have small gaps around your skirting boards or windows? If you live in an older house this is more likely and it will mean that heat is being lost and cold air is coming in. Not only this, but it’ll mean your house is at risk of damp because of too much moisture coming inside and lying on the interior walls.
Draught-proofing your home could be the solution to this. Luckily, the materials you need for sealing gaps and cracks are readily available and it is so easy to do and after doing it once, you’ll practically become a natural. All you’ll need is some foam insulating sealant and you’re good to go!
If you live in a hot climate and have an air conditioner in your house, sealing gaps and cracks will also reduce the costs you spend on keeping your home cool!
Reasons to Improve Your Insulation and Fill Gaps in Your Home
There are many benefits and reasons to improve the insulation of your home. From keeping your home cool in hot months and warm in cold months, to reducing the risk of mould and damp, insulation and proper draught protection is an absolute must.
1. Helps your air conditioner work more effectively
If your home is under-insulated or you have air gaps all over, this means your air conditioner will be working a lot harder to regulate the temperature indoors. This defeats the purpose of having one in the first place.
Need an air conditioner to keep your home cool in the hot summer months? Take a look at our extensive range here. Couple these with proper insulation and your home will be much more energy efficient.
2. Reduces the cost of household bills
Making sure your home is well insulated results in substantial savings over time. Imagine your house is poorly insulated and it is full of gaps and cracks where air can leak in and out. The money you’re wasting over time will soon mount up and exceed what you would pay upfront for a well insulated home.
3. Supports the climate by saving energy
If you’re environmentally conscious, then this one's for you. Playing your part in making your home as efficient as possible, helps against global warming. Adding quality insulation to your home will help you reduce greenhouse gas emissions because less fuel is being used.
4. Helps you stay healthy
An under - insulated home that allows damp and moisture in is the perfect environment for mould, damp, and fungi to grow. Not only will this damage your home, it is also really bad for your health and long term exposure to damp and mould can lead to some serious health conditions. Not to mention that, if these nasties continue to grow, you’ll have a hefty bill to pay for repairs your home will need.
Ready to Improve the Energy Efficiency of Your Home?
We hope you have found this post on saving energy within your home helpful. Whether you’re looking to save money, help the environment, or keep your house as cool and as warm as it should be, then these tips will help you achieve just that.
If you would like any further information on the products we sell or the best products for your home energy saving and insulation needs, please don’t hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to answer any questions.