Sustainability. We’ve all be talking about it for a while now, but since the pandemic and lockdown life, the collective consumer attitude seems to have shifted towards a decidedly greener theme.
This is great news for the planet, what with the whole climate change thing and all that, but sustainable initiatives are also good for us as individuals, not least when it comes to our bills at the end of the month.
Better energy efficiency in the home will not only save you a few quid but do a bit for the greater good as well. If you’re interested in this mutually beneficial deal, there are four key changes you can make in your home.
A boiler replacement
Let’s start with the heavy hitter.
Yes, boiler replacements are expensive – usually costing anywhere between £500-£2,500. That’s a big investment, but one that offers considerable returns in the long run.
Moving to an energy efficient boiler can save you up to £350 annually. That’s pretty good going in ROI terms even if you spend that top end £2,500. Of course, if you’re being super green, you could install a wood pellet burning biomass boiler, but that’ll set you back a rather daunting £7,000-£13,000.
Better insulation
Have you got insulation in your house? There’s a good chance you might not even know the answer to that question. And that’s OK, but it’s worth finding out, and fitting some if indeed you don’t.
Insulation, most commonly found in lofts but also used in solid walls, cavity walls and floors, will help retain heat in your home as well as reduce the possibility of damaging damp. Each of those insulation types mentioned above can save you anywhere from £65-245 a year. Not bad going.
Review your doors and windows
How much heat do you reckon you lose through old windows? According to SafeStyle UK, 18% of your home’s total heat can be lost through poorly insulated frames. If you invest in energy efficient windows, you can save an estimated £120-£155 a year.
How about your doors? That seems less obvious, but draught proofing your doors properly can save you around £25 a year. You can get door seals from suppliers like RS to help insulate your edges, or indeed a new door entirely if your current one is feeling particularly creaky.
Get a smart meter
A smart meter will offer you accurate, real-time information on your energy usage, helping you to better manage your energy utilisation and cut down on waste. Depending on the smart control, you might be able to take finer control over you heating, too.
Smart meters are fast becoming a household staple, with UK government directives looking to see a smart meter fitted in every home across the UK by 2024. It’s not a bad idea to get one sooner, though.
When you’re making your home more energy efficient, you’re not only saving money but making your home a warmer, more comfortable place to live. Oh yeah, and the planet’s better off for it, too – so everybody wins.
In an age of extravagance, minimalist interior design is a welcome splash of fresh air for home. De-cluttering the extraneous, prioritizing function, and embracing sleek visual beauty, minimalism is more a philosophy than a style. While minimalist interiors to others appear sparse or too minimalist, real estate trends indicate that minimalist, uncluttered houses are what […]
When designing a small space kitchen planners use smart solutions that help to save space and create a practical clutter-free kitchen environment for space and cooking things. A small space kitchen design can be very functional and beautiful if every inch is used and the right materials are selected. Having a small kitchen can be […]
Along with other furniture, storage units for living room play a vital role in Indian households. From handcrafted artifacts to vases and books, everything is stored in these units. Adding storage units for living room makes the space truly multipurpose while also acting as a fine decor element. Vivid products like TV units, bookshelves, consoles, […]
A well-designed driveway not only adds value to your property but also improves functionality and curb appeal. When it comes to creating a durable, attractive parking area, choosing the right type of parking tiles are essential. Parking tiles are specifically designed to withstand the weight of vehicles, resist weather elements, and maintain their appearance over […]
Looking to transform your dining space? A modern crockery unit design can be the key element for the upgrade! In addition to its usefulness, an ideal crockery unit design provides a less cluttered space, adds ease of access, and serves as a feature of your home. Recent innovations in design also allow you to adapt […]
Modular houses are prefabricated structures built in modules manufactured and assembled on-site. They are built under controlled plant conditions, using the same materials, and designed to the same codes and standards as conventionally built facilities but in about half the time. As a result, this reduces the construction cost to 30% to 50% less than […]
Brick houses have been a cornerstone of architecture for centuries, celebrated for their durability, aesthetic versatility, and timeless appeal. In modern design, architects continue to explore innovative ways to incorporate brick into residential spaces, blending traditional materials with contemporary needs. While the design of each brick house is unique, there are several ways to incorporate […]
Architecture is not just a profession, it is an evolving journey of discovery, adaptation, and growth. At Elev8 2025, Architect Hiren Patel takes us on a journey into the design philosophy of Monkey Forest Villa. He explores the architectural elements that contribute to the home’s artistry. He also offers insight into the story of his design […]
One of the significant decor elements for the living room is the sofa. Sofa designs for living room radiates the feeling of comfort, the dweller’s personality, and their personal touch to the design. From traditional Indian settees to modern-day lounges, with plenty of choices available, it can be puzzling what to choose. With this curation […]
Plants for home garden, apart from making houses look more beautiful and inviting, add health and calmness to them. Having any kind of indoor plant, a herb plant or a flowering plant adds some value to your decor and the quality of the space. Always choose plants that will flourish in your space and climate. […]