Rising energy costs, coupled with a push to live more sustainably, have made more people than ever find ways to be a little more energy efficient. One of the most effective ways to use less energy is by making changes throughout the home. This approach can help keep your energy bills down while also boosting your property’s value over time. So, in this article, we’ll offer some energy efficiency tips for your home that will help keep the bills down.
What is Energy Efficiency?
Energy efficiency in residential settings like your home means using less energy to accomplish the same tasks, which helps by reducing energy waste. Efficient homes such as new builds incorporate sustainable materials, advanced construction techniques, and intelligent technologies to lower energy consumption. This covers many aspects, from architectural design and insulation to heating systems and household appliances.
Tips for Enhancing Energy Efficiency at Home
When it comes to making changes in your existing home to help with energy efficiency, there are a few ways you can go about it. So, let’s go over a few tips below to help you improve your energy efficiency at home:
Insulation
Unlike new build homes, traditional builds may be poorly insulated due to age and changes in regulations over time. Enhancing your home's insulation is one of the most effective measures for improving energy efficiency. Adequate insulation helps keep heat from escaping during the winter and keeps interiors cooler in the summer. Check that your loft, walls, and floors are well insulated, and consider upgrading to double-glazing for your windows if you haven't already done so.
Smart Thermostats
Investing in a smart thermostat can lead to significant savings on your energy bills. These devices allow you to control your heating and cooling from afar and adjust settings based on your daily routine and the weather, ensuring you don't waste energy heating or cooling an empty house.
LED Lighting
Replacing traditional incandescent bulbs with LED lighting can reduce the energy use of your lighting by up to 90%. LEDs also last longer, which means you won't need to replace them as frequently, adding further to your savings.
Energy Efficient Appliances
When it's time to replace old appliances, choose those that are rated with the Energy Saving Trust Recommended label. These appliances are designed to use less electricity and water, significantly lowering your utility bills. Opt for high-efficiency models of fridges, dishwashers, washing machines, and tumble dryers. Typically, when you buy a Sanctuary new build home, energy-efficient integrated appliances are included as standard. However, this will vary across each development, so ensure you speak with your sales advisor to check the development specification.
Why New Builds Are More Energy-Efficient
If you’re in the market for a property and want to place a focus on energy efficiency, then your best bet is opting for a new build over an older property. There are plenty of benefits associated with buying a new build, but in terms of energy efficiency you’ll enjoy:
Higher Build Standards
Newly constructed homes are generally more energy efficient, thanks to stricter building regulations that mandate adherence to the latest standards in energy conservation. New builds often feature cutting-edge technologies and materials that offer better insulation and airtightness than older properties.
Modern Heating and Cooling Systems
New homes typically come equipped with the most up-to-date central heating technology, which is more efficient at regulating indoor temperatures. These systems frequently include programmable and smart thermostats that optimise energy use based on actual needs.
Integration of Renewable Energy
Many new homes are designed with renewable energy solutions such as solar panels or ground-source heat pumps, however this will vary per development and plot. These systems significantly reduce dependence on conventional energy sources and can even produce excess energy to feed back into the grid. This sort of integration adds to the overall value of the property, making it an even more worthwhile investment.
Make Your Home More Energy Efficient With These Tips
Making your home as energy efficient as possible is a smart investment that offers returns in the form of lower energy costs, enhanced comfort, and reduced environmental impact. While existing homes can be retrofitted to improve their efficiency, new build homes inherently incorporate the latest in energy-efficient technologies and designs. Whether upgrading your current home or considering a new build, prioritising energy efficiency is a forward-thinking choice that benefits both your wallet and the planet.
If you’re in the process of finding your new home, then take a look at our Sanctuary developments. Or, if you have any questions or would like some help, please contact us today.