The Advantages of Making Your Manchester Home More Energy Efficient
Having a home that is energy efficient can be an excellent way to save money on your bills and enjoy more comfort. Not only does it help you save money, but it can also add value to your Manchester home.
Reduced Monthly Electricity Bills
Using energy wisely and reducing your electric bills can save you money in the long run. The best way to do this is to choose energy-efficient appliances and electronics and use them sparingly. Consider hiring a Manchester Electrician to install a solar panel on the roof of your Manchester home. Installation of one of these systems could save hundreds of pounds in energy costs annually. Also, installing an energy-efficient window can save you money. Energy-efficient windows allow more daylight to enter the home.
You can have your energy company perform an energy audit on your home for an extra fee. This can be a handy tool in helping you identify energy-wasting appliances and electronics. You can implement many tips and tricks to save on your energy bill. For example, you can use energy-efficient appliances, dress appropriately for the weather, and do business in the morning or evening. These tips are not only helpful in reducing your bills, but they can also help protect you from freezing and bursting pipes. Likewise, consider installing a smart thermostat. These devices can adjust the temperature of your home based on your schedule, and this could save you up to 10 per cent on your heating bills. Another smart idea is to get a dimmer switch which will allow you to control the brightness of your lights. A dimmer switch will also save on your electricity bill.
Consider purchasing a smart power strip. These devices can reduce vampire loads, appliances and electronics that never power off. These devices also display how much electricity you are using in real time. Lastly, make sure you know the rate you are paying for electricity. Many utility companies have time-of-use plans that offer lower rates during off-peak hours and have rebates and incentives to encourage people to make the switch. By using energy wisely and reducing your electric bills, you can enjoy the comforts of home without a ton of stress.
Increased Home Comfort
Increasing the thermal insulation of your home can make for a warmer home. Likewise, installing a smart thermostat is the most effective way to improve energy efficiency while avoiding overheating and cold feet. The best part is you can save a bundle of cash in the process. The best place to get started is with a free home energy audit. The following steps will get you on your way to a more comfortable home:
- Measure your HVAC system to get a complete list of leaks and ducts.
- Replace faulty ducts and duct tape.
- Upgrade your furnace and air conditioning.
- Install a smart thermostat.
- Reposition unused furniture to maximise your available space.
The process can take as little as a few hours and should be done at least once a year, preferably sooner. The results are well worth the effort. After you are done, leave a lasting impression by leaving a thank you card on your front door.
Smaller Carbon Footprint
A smaller carbon footprint means you have a smaller impact on climate change. A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gas emissions generated by your activities. You can calculate your carbon footprint using a carbon footprint calculator. These calculators ask questions about your life and activities, giving you a complete picture of your emissions. Most of your carbon footprint comes from transportation, food, and energy usage. But there are many actions you can take to reduce your carbon footprint, and these actions can be done at home, work, or travelling.
The first thing you can do is to use energy-efficient appliances. They will use less energy and save you money over time. Replace your white goods with a more energy-efficient model, such as a refrigerator or dishwasher. You can also use ceiling fans instead of air conditioning. Also, you should consider replacing your car with a hybrid. You will have a larger carbon footprint if you drive or fly often.
You can also make minor improvements, such as insulating your loft or adding insulation to your walls which can help retain heat during the winter and keep the heat inside during the summer. You can also consider switching to green energy providers. This is the most effective way to reduce your carbon footprint. You may have to spend money upfront, but you will save money in the long run. Also, make sure you recycle or compost your waste. Landfills release methane gasses that are more potent than carbon dioxide. You can also use a protein card to help you choose more climate-friendly foods, and it can help you reduce your carbon footprint by eating less meat and more plant-based foods. If you are planning to purchase a new home, choose one that is energy efficient. You should also consider eco-proofing your existing home; adding insulation to your walls can reduce your carbon footprint. During a renovation, you should also consider finding uses for materials you remove.
Increased Market Value
Investing in energy-efficient upgrades will help increase the market value of your home. Energy-efficient features can also help reduce your utility bills, and Energy-efficient appliances also pay for themselves in the long run. Some of the best features for increasing the market value of your home include energy-efficient appliances, drought-resistant landscaping, and electric vehicle charging stations. These upgrades improve the appeal of your home to buyers and will help you sell it faster. A fresh coat of paint can increase the market value of your home by five per cent. You can also add a new front door and light fixtures to make your home more appealing.
Investing in energy-efficient upgrades can increase the value of your home by up to £60,000. The Inflation Reduction Act implemented by the government offers rebates for energy-efficient upgrades. A report from the Department of Energy and Climate Change finds that increasing the efficiency of your home can directly improve the value of your home by up to 14 per cent. You can also get a certificate of energy performance. This certificate can tell you how to lower fuel and carbon emissions, as well as how to reduce your utility bills. You can use this certificate when you are selling or renting your home. The certificate includes a rating on a scale from A to G.
If you plan to sell your home, mention all the eco-friendly features you have implemented to buyers. Research suggests that about half of real estate agents said homebuyers prioritise energy efficiency when searching for a home. Energy-efficient homes are also becoming more popular and are expected to grow as more consumers become more environmentally conscious. Many homebuyers are also willing to pay more for homes with eco-friendly features. These features are sometimes a must-have, but they can be a smart move for the environment and your wallet. Many buyers believe they will need to make these upgrades eventually. Whether you are a homeowner or a landlord, these upgrades can help you cut costs.