subject: Going Green the Easy Way – Simple methods to save energy, money and the environment [print this page] There can be many challenges in trying to live a greener and more eco-friendly life. Reducing energy use, resorting to natural methods and buying eco-friendly products can all come with costs in both money and time.
But saving energy and living green doesn't have to be hard work, costly or resort to us doing things the hard way; there are some really simple but effective things that you can do for little cost that can make a huge difference to the amount of energy you use.
Insulation
Okay, insulation does cost a little bit of money but if you have a badly insulated loft it can be costing you a fortune in wasted heat and energy; spending just a few hundred pounds to ensure you are properly insulated will soon pay for itself.
And lofts are not the only place where heat escapes. Cavity walls can be insulated, and now, you can even buy insulation paint. This paint is inexpensive and will prevent heat from escaping through the walls or ceiling.
Ensuring draughts are covered will also prevent energy loss. Draught excluders for badly fitting doors should be fitted and you should also fit letterbox draft excluders if heat is getting out that way.
Efficiency
By getting more out of the energy we consume is another method for saving energy, money and the environment. One of the first areas we can make a difference is in our lighting. By replacing conventional filament lightbulbs with energy saving bulbs you will make quite a big reduction in the amount of electricity you use.
You can make your radiators even more efficient by installing radiator panels. These will radiate the heat from the rear of the radiator back into the room. You should also ensure they are bled regularly and you can get automatic radiator valves to do this.
Going Green the Easy Way Simple methods to save energy, money and the environment