Want to save you money and help the planet? Here are some eco-friendly home improvements that are worth the initial outlay.

Reduce your energy bills with these upgrades

• Start small by replacing your traditional light globes with LED bulbs.
• Double-glazed windows will cost a bit initially, but they’ll keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in winter; if you’re thinking of replacing windows, it may be worth spending a little more for higher quality that lasts. 
• While installing a solar system on your roof may also be a large investment, it will cut your monthly energy bills considerably. Plus, it’s a good selling point when you go to sell your home.
• Take advantage of the current government scheme to install a more energy-efficient water heater. Start here to find out what rebates you may be able to claim. 
• Cut your water usage even more by installing low-flow shower heads.
• Make sure that your home is well-insulated. Consider spray foam insulation which has a higher heat-flow resistance and will keep your home at a more even temperature all year round.
• Upgrade your air conditioner to a more energy-efficient one. The top models for 2022 include Mitsubishi Heavy Industries AvantiPLUS, Daikin Cora Series, and the Rinnai Q Series.

Use more sustainable materials

When it comes to remodelling or replacing some of your current fixtures and fittings such as floorboards and decking, consider using more sustainable materials that are both cost-effective and long-lasting.

Think about using reclaimed wood for the floorboards in your home. This is a great way to reuse materials that may otherwise have been put into landfill and saves cutting down more trees. Other flooring options that are sustainable include bamboo and cork flooring.

Creating a usable and friendly outdoor space means you’ll get more enjoyment out of your home and is also a sought-after selling point with many home buyers. If you want to install a new outdoor deck or replace a worn one, consider using composite decking instead of real timber. Composite decking is long-lasting, hard-wearing, and will continue to look great for years to come.

While you’re creating a relaxing and inviting outdoor area, don’t forget the plants. Studies have proven that trees and shrubs not only make us feel happier but also help to keep the air clean.

You might even want to consider growing your own vegetables and fruit. You’ll be surprised at how much better food that you’ve grown yourself tastes. Plus, you could even consider incorporating a worm farm or compost bin to help feed your growing plants.

Have a look at the Mount Gambier council website for information about their discounts on worm farms, compost bins, and bokashi buckets.

Buy more secondhand materials

Buying secondhand materials when you’re upgrading your home is the ultimate in sustainability. Not only will this save you money, but you’re also helping the planet by rescuing and reusing items that may have otherwise ended up in a landfill.

Check out the council’s ReUse Market at 3 Eucalypt Drive. Here you can find all sorts of unique and unusual items that are just waiting to be given a new lease on life. Not only will you have fun perusing all the goods available, but you might just end up with something quite unique at a fraction of the cost of buying new.

Get in touch

For more innovative ideas and suggestions on how you can make your home more sustainable and energy-efficient and advice on what buyers look for, feel free to give us a call.