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If you want to not only improve your green credentials but also save money then this winter then it’s worth considering some environmentally friendly options. The cold weather prompts everyone to turn up their heating and use much more energy than they normally would. However, there are ways to reduce your reliance on heating and electricity in the home. Make a difference this year by considering the environment over winter. Here are 10 ways of reducing your environmental impact over winter.

 

1. Use Blankets, Hot Water Bottles & Slippers

Don’t immediately go to turn the heating up as soon as it starts to get cold. Before you do, try and find some other more traditional ways of staying warm. A hot water bottle and a blanket can go a long way and wearing slippers will keep your feet warm when walking through a cold house.

 

2. Get Rid Of Drafts/Boost Insulation

Try and check your house for drafts before winter sets in so that you can keep your house warmer for longer. Try and insulate windows and other areas that a likely to let cold air in.

 

3. Get An Energy Efficient Boiler

Switching your old boiler to a newer, more energy efficient one can make a huge difference. Old style boilers use up so much energy. There is an initial cost but you will gain so much in the long run.

 

4. Lower Your Heating

Putting your heating down a degree or two can have a big impact on your energy efficiency. It’s always so tempting to turn the heating up even when it’s not necessary so be strict with yourself this winter. It is also cheaper to leave your heating on a low setting all day rather than on a high settings for two hours at a time.

 

5. Use Green Deicers

Eco friendly deicers contain far less chemicals and will be much better for the environment. Stock up on green deicers before the snow hits.

 

6. Don’t Block Out Sunlight

During the day make sure you keep as many curtains open as possible so that you can let the light in. The sunlight will then be able to naturally warm up your home.

 

7. Keep Doors Closed

If you are not using half the rooms in your house then keep the doors closed. Stay in one room which you can heat and keep the door shut to trap all the cosy warm air.

 

8. Close Curtains Overnight

Try and close your curtains overnight to keep the heat inside your house. Thicker curtains will help drawn in the heat.

 

9. Leave Your Oven Door Open

Doing some baking or oven cooking? Just leave the door open when you finish and you can use all that heat to warm up your kitchen. Just be careful around children and pets.

 

10. Light Candles

Instead of using lights all the time try and use candles some evenings, they don’t use any energy and are very relaxing. A quicky health warning on candles. Never leave them unattended.