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Energy has been a booming topic, not only in terms of renewables but also due to the political situation affecting prices. In the summer, it might not be such an issue; however, once the cold hits, energy consumption goes up. Fortunately, there are many ways to stay warm and comfortable while reducing your environmental impact. Here are some sustainable tips to help you save energy and enjoy a greener winter:
1. Cold-proof House
This might seem obvious, but making sure that the heat doesn’t escape easily is crucial. You can start with sealing up drafts. Simply caulk and weatherstrip windows as well as doors to prevent cold air from seeping in. Another step is making sure that your home is properly insulated, especially attics and basements. You can add an extra layer of protection by installing storm windows or curtains.
Please note that insulation degrades over time, so check when you last insulated the house. Look out for signs of energy increase, fluctuating temperatures in the house, or any other type of damage. All these might be an indication that your insulation needs some awareness.
2. Optimise Heating
It is as simple as turning down your thermostat, especially when you go out or while sleeping. Of course, it is also not good for the house/apartment to set the thermostat too low, so be careful. Aim for temperatures between 17-22° C (62-72° F). If you are at home, try to keep the temperature around 20° C (68° F) and decrease it for the night or when you go away. Prevent pipes from freezing by setting the thermostat to a minimum of 15°C (60°F). If concerned about burst pipes, consider a slightly higher setting.
To further decrease your energy expenses, we would recommend closing vents to avoid heating rooms that are not used. Rather than heating up your house to summer temperatures, put on a cosy sweater or use an extra blanket. Finally, you can consider alternative heating such as space heaters or wood-burning stoves. In that case, use them with caution and efficiently.
Another thing to consider is hot water, which is a massive portion of your energy cost. To reduce this, you can take shorter showers or install low-flow showerheads. For the brave hearts out there, you can try taking even cold or room-temperature showers. It will benefit not only your wallet but also your health, given cold showers help to increase immunity, improve blood circulation, increase metabolism, combat symptoms of depression, reduce inflammation and prevent muscle soreness.
3. The Power of the Sun
Embrace natural light during the day, open the curtains and let the sun warm up your home naturally. This reduces the need for artificial heating, saving energy and money. However, it’s important to close the curtains at night to prevent heat loss through the windows.
4. Look Out for Appliances
Avoid phantom energy consumption by turning off and unplugging electronics when you don’t use them. Once you need to buy or replace your appliances, go for energy-efficient options. Moreover, when using certain appliances such as a dishwasher or washing machine, select eco or cold water cycle.
5. Sustainable Choices
Making sustainable choices over the winter time can be an important part of saving not only energy but also money; let’s have a look into what we can do:
Sustainable Transportation
Opting for eco-friendly transportation can significantly reduce fuel costs and carbon emissions. Consider walking, biking, or using public transportation whenever possible. If driving is necessary, carpooling can reduce fuel consumption and traffic congestion. Investing in fuel-efficient or electric vehicles can also lead to significant savings in the long run.
Sustainable Food Choices
The food we consume has a significant impact on both our health and the environment. By choosing local, seasonal produce, we can reduce food miles and support local farmers. Reducing meat consumption can also lower our carbon footprint. Additionally, composting food scraps can reduce waste and improve soil health. At the same time, actions such as purchasing local and seasonal produce or compositing can further save money in the long term.
Energy-Efficient Living
Simple lifestyle changes can lead to significant energy savings. For example, using energy-efficient appliances and practising energy-saving habits like turning off lights and unplugging electronics can lower utility bills. Investing in renewable energy sources like solar panels can further reduce one’s reliance on traditional energy sources. Once again, these actions can reduce the cost of energy bills and save money in the long run.
Investing in a Sustainable Future
Investing in sustainable upgrades to our homes and communities can yield long-term benefits. Solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and smart home technologies can reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Government incentives and reimbursements can make these investments more affordable and accessible.
Energy Efficient Home
Energy efficiency at home is crucial for reducing environmental impact and saving money. Simple strategies, such as sealing air leaks, improving insulation, and using energy-efficient appliances, can significantly reduce energy consumption. Additionally, adopting sustainable habits like turning off lights when not in use, unplugging electronics, and opting for natural light can further contribute to energy savings. Create a sustainable and cost-effective home by being efficient!
To optimise energy efficiency and reduce heating costs, consider these practical tips:
- Insulate the house and optimise the heating.
- To prevent heat loss, consider using clear window film or weatherstripping on doors and windows.
- Maximise natural light by keeping drapes open during the day and closed at night.
- To reduce energy consumption, unplug electronics when not in use.
- Bundle up in warm clothing before turning up the heat.
- Make your home even more cozy with some reusable candles.
- If you live in a residence hall and suspect a draft, submit a maintenance request.
Conserve, Reduce and Save!
Enjoy a warm and comfortable winter while reducing your energy consumption and environmental impact. Remember, small changes can make a big difference!
Living more sustainably in winter is crucial for protecting the environment, conserving resources, and ensuring you play your part in reducing the effects of climate change. And it comes with the added benefit of saving you money, too.
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