The Cutting Edge Eco-friendly Designs Of 2017
We all know how important it is to decrease our footprint on the environment. We know how to do it with our water consumption, rubbish disposal and carbon emissions, but what about your home? We have a few tips and tricks to help make your home more environmentally friendly using the latest in eco-friendly home trends and green living options.
Heat Pump Hot Water System
When we think of renewable hot water systems, most of us probably think that we need to install solar panels on our roofs, but there is another option. A heat pump hot water system does away with the need to install any panels and is still eco-friendly, as they use about a third of the energy of a regular electric water heater. This also means installing one will save you a nice wad of cash for use on a rainy day.
Energy Efficient Lighting
Incandescent and fluorescent bulbs have been the standard for years, but now LED blubs are proving to be more efficient. LEDs are longer lasting, more durable and versatile than older bulbs. While again the upfront cost may be a little higher, you’ll notice plenty of savings in the long run.
Low VOC Paints
It may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but choosing an eco-friendly, low VOC paint is another simple step to having a greener living space. Normal paints are full of greenhouse gases and harmful chemicals that release into the atmosphere, and our lungs, when we use them. A low VOC paint is free from toxic biocides and fungicides, they come in all sorts of colours and they don’t have that overwhelming chemical smell that can linger for days.
Urban Vinyl Flooring
The floor of your house deals with a lot, so you need something that is tough, practical, hygienic, but also still gives your house that modern touch. A vinyl floor is not only hardwearing, but it’s waterproof and easy to clean, and also comes in a range of colours and designs to suit any home.
Smart Home Technology
There are various things you can install around your home that not only make life a little easier but also help Mother Nature. One such technology is Smart Sockets. Using specially designed sockets and an app, you can turn appliances on and off using your smart phone. Some even have motion sensors so when you leave the room devices, such as your TV, will automatically switch off. Being able to easily ensure devices are off can greatly decrease your energy usage.
Bathroom Savvy
Did you know the humble toilet tends to use the most water of any fixture in your home? By installing a dual flush toilet, you can reduce the amount of water wasted. With flush options for either solid or liquid waste, the toilet is able to conserve more water when smaller toilet deposits are made. You can either purchase a whole new toilet or an upgrading kit for your existing model.
HRV System
An aspect of the home that can often be forgotten about, but which is still vitally important, is ventilation. When the temperature and humidity get high, the heat can start to seep into your home through the cracks and openings in your building. Rather than constantly running the air conditioner in attempt to tackle this, you can install a HRV system. Needing only one heat source and running on the size of only two light blubs, a HRV system will keep you feeling healthy and comfortable inside your home through those warmer months.
Bionic Fire
If you want a cosy fireplace to warm up in front of during winter, consider installing a bionic fire. Bionic fire is great for the environmentally conscious among us, as it produces hardly any residual particle emissions thanks to the double combustion chambers.
These are just some of the smart ways your home can have a minimal impact on the environment and ensure you’re a part of the world’s environmentally friendly future.