How to keep your home green (and save on insurance!)
Prioritising sustainability at home isn’t just good for the planet—it can be good for your wallet, too! From lowering your energy bills to increasing the value of your home, green improvements come with a host of benefits. But did you know that making your home more energy-efficient could even help you save on insurance?
Some insurers offer lower premiums for homes with a good EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating. By investing in greener solutions, you’re not just cutting costs on utilities—you might also find yourself rewarded with better insurance rates.
Sounds good, right? So, let’s get into it. Here are some practical ways you can keep your home as green as possible and maybe save some pennies too:
Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances
It might sound counter-intuitive, but one of the easiest ways to save money while reducing your carbon footprint is to shop for more energy-efficient appliances. Devices with a high energy rating (A+ and above) use significantly less electricity and water than many of the old, power-hungry appliances sitting in people’s homes. That means greater sustainability for the planet and lower utility bills for you each month.
Install smart heating controls
If you’re still manually adjusting your home thermostat and sending meter readings each month, now is the time to upgrade! Smart heating controls optimise your home’s heating and cooling schedule, which leads to more efficient energy usage. With features like remote control via smartphone app and cost updates in real-time, this easy switch is a no-brainer. In the UK, most energy providers will fit a smart meter for free and some will provide a discount on a smart heating system when you switch energy provider.
Cut down on water consumption
We’ve all been told not to waste water by running the taps excessively, but did you know there are water-efficient fixtures that can take this a step further? Low-flow toilets, aerated taps, and water-saving shower heads are some of the new innovations in sustainable living. As well as cutting down on water waste, these devices can also help prevent issues like leaks or damp—saving you money on home repairs in the long term. But if you’re looking for a way to cut down on water consumption without spending a penny, collecting rainwater for outdoor use is a great way to keep your garden green without relying on mains water.
Use LED lighting
If you’re struggling to keep your household energy bills down, your choice of lighting could be to blame! LED bulbs are a far better choice than traditional bulbs for keeping a sustainable home because they’re more energy efficient and last longer. Not sure which kind of bulb you’re currently using? Traditional incandescent bulbs will get far warmer than LED bulbs when in use, and you’ll also be able to see the filament inside the bulb.
Improve your home’s insulation
Another way to reduce your energy consumption is to well-insulate your home. This helps your house stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer, reducing the need for excessive heating and air conditioning. But what kinds of home insulation are there? Upgrading your loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and switching to double or triple-glazed windows can all make a big difference in keeping your home’s eco-footprint down. As an added bonus: A more temperate environment will also help stave off nasty problems like damp and mould.
Use eco-friendly building materials
Alongside considering insulation, if you’re thinking of renovating your home, you might also want to explore sustainable materials. Reclaimed wooden floorboards can add a rustic, authentic look to your home, while recycled steel has become a popular modern design choice as an alternative to wooden beams. You can also buy composite decking and doors made from recycled wood and plastic. All of these choices lead to reduced waste and save on energy through the manufacturing process—keeping your home as green as possible.
Switch to renewable energy sources
Serious about sustainability? Installing a renewable energy source like solar panels or a heat pump is perhaps the most impactful thing you can do for your home. If you’re put off by the initial expense, it might interest you to know that government grants are available to interested homeowners and the long-term energy savings can make it a worthwhile investment. Additionally, many insurance providers recognise the value of renewable energy installations, as they demonstrate a commitment to home efficiency and sustainability.
A few final tips…
Whether you start by switching to LED bulbs or go all-in with solar panels, every step towards a greener home is a step towards a more sustainable future!
If you’re wondering where your home stands in terms of energy efficiency, getting an EPC assessment can be a great starting point. Not only will this give you a clear picture of which improvements to make, but it may also provide insights into how to make your home more attractive to insurers offering incentives for energy-efficient properties.
For more guidance, check out:
How to improve EPC rating | Urban Jungle