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Simple Sustainable Home Improvements

2 November 2022
  • 2 November 2022

Simple Sustainable Home Improvements

 

Residential buildings are responsible for approximately 24% of overall electricity use and 12% of total carbon emissions in Australia! So, if you’re looking to minimise your impact on the environment it makes sense to consider what you can do at home. While you might not be ready for a huge renovation even small changes can have a big impact over the long run. 

Here are some simple home improvements you could do to make your home more sustainable and reduce your bills while you’re at it:

Install LED Lights

LED lights use 75% less energy than halogen light bulbs and last 5 to 10 times longer! By switching to LED lights, you will save electricity and associated emissions, as well as saving on the resources used to produce replacement lightbulbs. When switching your bulbs, make sure you dispose of the old globes responsibly. If you’re in South Australia, bring them back to your local Mitre10, otherwise, contact your local council or find a light globe recycling point here. 

Switch to Outdoor Sensor Lights

No one likes trying to unlock their front door in the dark after a night out, nor do they appreciate the addition to their electricity bill from leaving the front porch light on all evening. That’s why you should consider installing an outdoor sensor light before your next night out!

Install a Clothesline

By ditching the dryer and hanging your clothes on a clothesline, you can save electricity, and carbon emissions while keeping your clothes in good condition for longer. Not sure which clothesline is right for you? Click here to discover the 5 things to look for in a clothesline. Ready to install? check out our how-to guide here. 

Improve your Insulation

The better your insulation, the less energy you will need to use to heat or cool your home. Consider the following to improve your insulation:

  • Resealing doors and windows to reduce air leaks
  • Glazing your windows or installing shades
  • Improving your ceiling insulation, learn how to install ceiling insulation here

Install a Rainwater Tank

Reduce your water usage and water bills by installing a rainwater tank. Harvested water can be used for revitalising your garden, plumbed in to flush your toilets, or wash your clothes. Click here for more information on how to install a rainwater tank in your home. 

Consider the Efficiency of your Appliances

When purchasing new appliances or upgrading old ones, look for the Energy Rating Label. Whilst you might be saving money upfront on a less efficient model, the more efficient the appliance you purchase, the more benefit you and the planet will have in the long run. Not sure where to start? Fridges, freezers, clothes dryers, and TVs make up the majority of appliance-based emissions in homes, so upgrading these will have the biggest impact.

Switch to Water-Saving Shower Heads and Faucets

Efficient shower heads and faucets not only save water but also reduce the amount of hot water and the energy associated with heating that water. Know which ones are the most sustainable by comparing the water efficiency rating (WELS). Check out our range of faucets and showerheads here.

Want more sustainable home improvements and design options? Check out Australia’s Guide to Environmentally Sustainable Homes produced by the Australian Government here.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Mitre 10 acknowledges the Bunurong people of the Kulin nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our Support Centre is located. We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognise the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respects to Elders past and present.

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