Get familiar with these simple tips to keep the home eco-friendly during the summer months.
Launder lightly
While wet appliances count to 10% of a household’s overall energy footprint, according to the Energy Saving Trust, the warmer weather fortunately provides an alternative to endless washing machine and tumble dryer cycles. Washing full loads only and applying the cold water setting can cut energy use
right down, and hanging clothes outside on the washing line or near an open window should come second nature. Synthetic fibres, such as polyester, tend to cling onto more smells and require more machine washing, so opting for natural fibres like organic cotton when shopping for new clothes is also a handy way to save.
Be Water Wise
Simple water-saving solutions at home can make every drop count during the summer as the temperature ramps up. With showers, toilets, and sinks consuming more than two thirds of household water, having a rejig of the bathroom routine can be the most effective way to start. Take a few minutes in the shower rather than a long soak in the tub, and check for any leaks in the taps and pipes for unnecessary wastage. Reuse the paddling pool water for the lawn and plants during the cooler mornings and evenings to help the water get straight to the roots and minimise the impact of evaporation.
Stay insulated
While house insulation is mainly associated with keeping homes warm, it’s also an effective way of slowing down the movement of heat and keeping families cool during the summer. Reducing the household’s carbon footprint, chilling out using properly installed insulation instead of running fans, dehumidifiers, and water coolers is also a good way to skirt around expensive energy bills.
Using blackout curtains to shade east and west-facing window is meanwhile a good DIY-method to keep the temperatures down, while keeping the windows closed during the day to avoid any unwanted humidity and heat.
Cook smart
Sticking to minimal cooking methods during the summer is a useful approach to making the home eco-friendlier while ensuring the kitchen won’t heat up any more than it has to. Avoid the oven, use the stove sparingly, and go for colder meals to keep the home refreshed and avoid excess energy use in the house. Creating your own compost from food scraps also a great way to curb food wastage in the kitchen and keep the garden naturally fertilised. When it comes to the next BBQ party, using organic coals to avoid unnecessary chemical additives and reducing the meat by grilling up more plant-based foods will also score plenty of green credentials.
Keep the freezer happy
After filling to the brim with refreshing goodies, your freezer is likely to be working overtime during the hot summer months, which can risk it overheating and overloading on carbon emissions. Giving the appliance a regular defrost and a proper clean every few weeks will keep it in top condition and running smoothly, while leaving enough space inside to let the air circulate properly. Leave at least one inch of extra space on all sides, repackage food into smaller bags, and try not to take a peak inside too often unless you need to!