They say charity begins at home but so does saving the planet. Even the smallest steps can add up to a big difference.
Here are some of the best ways to go green indoors.
Bright Idea
LEDs are better for the environment than incandescent bulbs but did you know they can also last for more than 10 years and lower your electricity bill?
Not a fan of their cool, clean light? To get a warmer glow, choose LEDs that emit a yellow-based light. Some brands offer settings such as daylight, soft white and warm white.
Smart Thinking
You may have insulated your home top to bottom but if you could see just how much power you were still using and what it was costing, chances are you’d turn the heating thermostat a few notches lower and even cut down on the number of electrical appliances being used.
Well, instal a smart meter and you can monitor your electricity consumption in real time simply by checking its digital display.
Catch some rays
Solar panels can be expensive to install but they do have the potential to offer long-term cost savings on your energy.
Although not all of the tariff systems – which saw users sell power to the National Grid – are now available, there are solar panel home kits that can meet much of your home’s power needs.
Green scene
Indoor plants can improve your home environment by absorbing harmful gasses and cleaning indoor air.
Even the humble Spider Plant, once common in Scottish households, is able to remove formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene from the atmosphere.
Water savers
Okay in Scotland we rarely lack rain, but saving water is always an eco gold star wherever you live.
Simple measures – such as placing a brick in your toilet cistern or installing a low-flow showerhead – can help save a thirsty planet.
Green clean
Whether it’s our own or a rental, we take great pride in keeping our homes spick and span. Unfortunately, many cleaning products contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment.
So choose eco-friendly cleaning products instead. These use only natural, organic ingredients that do impact grease, dirt and dust – but don’t impact the planet.
Go local
When things go awry – from leaky taps to electrical faults – whenever possible use local tradespeople. Hiring plumbers and electricians who live nearby rather than opting for someone who has to drive miles to get to you cuts down the carbon footprint of repairs. Similarly, if materials are required, shop locally.
All of this is good for your local economy so everyone’s a winner, including the planet.
Give yourself the green light to go . . . for all the best properties across Scotland, courtesy of s1homes.