When it comes to the environment many of us feel helpless, wanting to make changes and keen to make a positive difference but unsure of where to start.
Changing the way we regard our energy consumption is one way to make that positive difference.
How do we do that? This is where making a difference is actually quite simple. You can start by turning off lights when we leave the room, turning computers, television sets and other electronic equipment off at the wall and turning off all power when you leave your house in the day.
Other small positive actions help too. Ensuring that your freezer doesn't freeze over will help reduce the draw of energy it needs but also reduce your electricity bill. In fact, you will find that all of these choices will not only help the environment but also help your bank balance by reducing the amount you spend on bills.
Your washing machine and household appliances can become more energy-friendly. Use the economy cycle on washing machines and dishwashers and try to use the coldest temperature possible. Use a washing line to dry clothes outside or radiators in the winter try to avoid using the dryer. (This will also stop clothes from shrinking as well as helping the environment.)
If you have money put to one side to spend on your house then perhaps you should consider using renewable energy such as solar panels to help fuel your home and your family's energy needs?
There are two types of solar panels used in homes: one is used to heat hot water for the house (solar thermal) and the other is used to make electricity (photovoltaic solar panels).
Photovoltaic solar panels use energy from the sun to create electricity which can be used to fuel a home in the same way that energy from the grid is used. It makes a huge difference to your environmental impact so it is worth contacting solar panel installers to find out more.
You can't go wrong with photovoltaic solar panels but you can go wrong with solar panel installers, to ensure the best installation get references and do your homework first.