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How To Make A Home More Sustainable

Learning how to make a home more sustainable is crucial for cutting down energy use and minimising the impact that a home has on the environment. Sustainability has become increasingly important for homeowners as we see first-hand the effects of climate change - on home soil and overseas. From cooking spaces to study areas, there are many ways to make a home greener, and we have gathered tips from experts in the business that will help reduce energy consumption, cut household bills, and improve the lifespan of products around the home. Many of these ideas are simple swaps too, making it easy for homeowners and builders to make small changes to the green credentials of a property.

What is a sustainable home?

A sustainable home uses renewable energy sources, ethically-sourced products, and efficient appliances wherever possible to reduce its carbon footprint.

How can our homes be more sustainable?

Whether using natural resources responsibly or swapping out equipment for efficient models - there are many ways a home can be more sustainable.

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How can homes be made more sustainable?

Sustainable materials, such as ethically sourced and certified timber, or items with a long lifespan are both great ways to keep a home’s green impact low. Equipment that heats or cools are also the most power-hungry devices in the home - particularly if electricity is coming from non-sustainable sources. Swapping these out, such as frost-free food storage or more direct heating of pans, are a great way to make a home more sustainable.
Why are sustainable homes important?

While it seems small, we all have a responsibility to lower our carbon footprint. Maximising a home’s sustainable features is an important way to achieve this.

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Why are sustainable homes important?

Damaging weather patterns, growing non-renewable waste, and diminishing green spaces are just a few examples of climate change's impact.While governments and corporations have a responsibility to reduce and reverse the effects of climate change, it is also possible to have a noticeable impact in our homes. If we all make just a few small changes in the home, collectively we will eventually see positive changes locally and globally.

Eco-friendly cooking

Switch to planet-friendly products in a cooking space that lower gas, electric, and water use for a greener home.

Save on water

Switch to a dishwasher to use less water than hand-washing. This reduces energy consumption and water use, especially in large households.

Explore dishwashers
Bring down the boil

Cut down on electricity by swapping a kettle for an efficient, boiling-water tap that only heats the water required when making hot drinks or filling pans for cooking.

Explore boiling water taps

Organise organic waste

Separate household rubbish from recycling with a multi-compartment bin to reduce landfill waste. Hidden inside a cupboard, it keeps clutter out of sight.

Explore recycling bins
Introduce induction

Reduce energy with an induction stove, which uses electro-magnetic technology to heat the pan. By eliminating residual heat, it offers a more efficient way to cook.

Explore induction hobs

Clean up cooling

Safely store leftovers and ingredients for longer in a unit with frost-free tech. By minimising ice build-up, these models reduce freezer burn and food waste.

Explore frost-free freezers
Low-power cooking

Cook dishes at lower temperatures by switching to fan-assisted. By circulating hot air around the cavity, it cuts down on cooking time, saving energy.

Explore fan ovens

Efficient home cleaning

Plan equipment in a laundry room with eco features in mind to reduce energy consumption all year round.

Wash on water-saving settings

Look for eco features that reduce water and energy per cycle, like load detection and cool wash settings that will clean laundry at lower temperatures.

Explore washing machines
Pump up the heat

Choose a model that features heat pump technology. This recirculates air that has already been heated for a more efficient way to dry clothes.

Explore heat pump tumble dryers

Strengthen surfaces

Invest in quartz when planning counters. Its non-porous surface can be cleaned without harsh chemicals that could damage the local ecosystem.

Explore quartz worktops
Composite sinks

Opt for hardwearing composite materials for a heavy-duty bowl that withstands the demands of a busy household, prolonging the life of a design.

Explore composite sinks

Energy-conscious entrances

Seek ways to cut heat loss in an entrance, so living spaces stay warm, cosy, and energy-efficient - in all weathers.

Stay cosy with composite

Pick a composite design for an entrance that withstands the elements, so a hallway always offers a warm welcome from rain, wind and cold temperatures.

Explore composite doors
Keep the cold out

Use door seals to protect against cold draughts, which in turn keeps heating and energy use down – particularly in homes with non-renewable, gas heating.

Explore door accessories

Treat timbers throughout

Keep timber features protected with anti-stain and mould solutions. This will ensure fixtures are strong for longer, preventing replacements in the future.

Explore wood treatment
Fit flexible floors

Vinyl floors are resistant to fluctuating temperatures, making it a great choice for an entrance. It will retain the heat and be more comfortable underfoot.

Explore vinyl flooring

Sustainable work-life balance

Save energy by ensuring a home work-space has an eco-friendly set up, that is better for the planet and productivity.

Work on wood

Create a nurturing work environment with natural materials, like timber, which can be refreshed to remove coffee stains or ink spills and recycled at end of life.

Explore solid wood worktops
Light up with low power

Switch to a low-powered alternative to standard bulbs by introducing LED lights that will illuminate dark areas and enhance desk-based tasks.

Explore LED tape lights

Keep cables in check

Keep devices powered effectively and safely by organising wires and cables. This will make it easy to turn tech off to prevent unnecessary energy consumption.

Explore electrical
Maintain heating systems

Keep heating systems running efficiently with regular maintenance. This helps to preserve energy while staying warm when sitting at a desk.

Explore central heating