Winter is a very demanding season, as the electricity, natural gas or oil consumption increases, since we need to heat our homes. Energy consumption is stressing our limits each year, thus we try to find ways to save that won’t affect our convenience or quality of life. We can prepare our home appropriately in order to have the maximum possible efficiency, without any losses.
#1 Home insulation
Home insulation is the first step to reduce energy consumption and maintain the temperature inside the house at the desired levels. The best way to enhance our home is to install insulation on the walls, ceiling and windows. For example, the replacement of old wooden windows with new ones is a better choice for energy efficiency. When walls, windows and roof are not sufficiently insulated, heat escapes easily. The result is higher energy consumption for heating our home.
#2 Energy-Saving Home Appliances
For an energy efficient home, choose new energy-saving appliances. A simple and inexpensive way towards an energy-saving home is to replace all of your old light bulbs with LED ones. If your home appliances are old, e.g. refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners etc., it may be time to replace them as well one by one and you will see that your electricity bill will be reduced. Always remember to turn off appliances when they are not in use and do not leave them on standby, as they still consume energy.
#3 Heating System Upgrade
Before winter arrives, don’t forget the yearly maintenance of the boiler and radiators. This is an effective energy-saving measure, as you will act preventively to any damages or breakdowns. If the heating system in your home is old and inefficient, consider replacing it with new and effective solutions. It may be a more expensive investment, but your home will be energy and cost efficient, thus you will enjoy the results in the long term.
#4 Use Smart Thermostats
Installing smart thermostats in your house will make it easier for you to control the temperature. You can adjust the heating level according to the hours you’ re at home, or just before you arrive, so as to find it warm. These thermostats adapt to your needs and help reduce energy consumption.
#5Choosing the Right Home Insurance Plan
In addition to saving energy, we should not forget the safety of our assets. Home insurance covers a wide range of risks, such as fire damage, water leaks, natural disasters etc. Especially in winter, when the risks are increased due to weather conditions, short circuits, radiators or fireplaces, insurance can prove to be a lifesaver. Make sure you are fully covered for potential risks and please read your contract carefully.
Winter is a rather demanding season, with high energy level requirements, but it also offers the opportunity to upgrade our houses. A proper investment, whether in thermal insulation, energy-efficient appliances, or in the heating system, whatever we may choose, this choice will save us money in the near future. Whatever we decide, we will not only reduce energy consumption cost, but we will also protect our property, creating a sustainable and safe environment. Home insurance will forever guard this peace of mind that we will feel in our warm home, as we will know that we are covered even in adverse conditions.