3/4 of people want a sustainable home: here’s what that means!
According to recent studies, ¾ of potential house buyers now want a home with sustainable measures like solar panels – so what does it mean to have a sustainable home? And how do you know if yours is one?
What is sustainable housing?
Sustainable housing is designed and built using materials, energy, water and waste systems that minimise the impact on the environment and human health. This includes using renewable energy sources, such as solar, to generate electricity and heat.
Most forms of energy generation produce harmful greenhouse gases, which contributes to climate change. By installing solar panels, you can cut back on your greenhouse gas emissions from electricity use by up to 99%.
Energy efficiency measures can also save you money on bills, as you’ll be using less energy to power your home. Estimates show that in 2015 households in England used an average of 3,300 kWh per year. Energy efficiency measures can help you to reduce your electricity use by up to 60%, depending on how efficient your house is now.
Green home features – how do you know if your home is truly ‘green’?
If you’re looking for a green home, there are a few key features to look for. Firstly, check for solar panels or any other renewable energy sources. Secondly, see if the property has low-emitting materials such as certified wood floors or low-VOC paint. Thirdly, look for energy-efficient features like double-paned windows and insulation. fourthly, enquire about the water usage of the property – does it have low-flow fixtures?
Finally, see if the home is located in a walkable or bikeable community. If it has all of these features, chances are you’ve found yourself a green home!
Green homes help cut your energy bills, boost your health and even support local economies. Even if you rent and won’t be in one place for long, some green features can improve the quality of your space today.
Solar panels can keep your electricity costs down, and water-saving fixtures help preserve resources – many are approved for rental homes. If you’re looking for a property, enquire about these features early so you know what to look for when shopping around!
Suitable solutions for your existing home
You don’t have to wait to buy or build a new home to enjoy the benefits of sustainability. There are plenty of things you can do to make your existing home more sustainable. From installing solar panels to investing in energy-efficient appliances, there are many ways to shrink your carbon footprint. And, making your home more sustainable can also help you save money on your energy bills.
Make your home eco-friendlier. You can do your bit for the environment by switching to energy-efficient products. For example, when you install solar panels on your roof, you’re helping to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions.
Of course, you don’t need to buy or build a new house to make it sustainable – you can renovate your existing one. Doing so will let you enjoy some of the benefits of living in an eco-friendly house without having expensive building work or by moving somewhere else entirely.
Solar panels are used to generate your own electricity. This can save you money on your energy bills and help the environment.
Do you want to make eco-friendly house improvements? Get in touch with Flowing Energy Solutions for more!