There are a lot of ways to positively impact the environment and reduce your carbon footprint. From taking transit to work to installing solar hot water systems, many of the most beneficial changes you can make involve investment and lifestyle changes. However, in addition to these changes, there are plenty of small ways to make your impact even greater. Consider these easy methods for helping the environment today.

Adjust your thermostat

One degree may not seem like a lot, but according to the organisation Switch Your Thinking, a difference of just 1 degree Celsius will increase your energy bill by 10 per cent. The most efficient temperature to set your thermostat is between 24 and 27 degrees in the summer and 18 to 20 degrees in the winter.

Close your doors

When you’re using temperature control methods, don’t heat or cool the entire house if you don’t need to. Close doors to extra rooms or unused spaces, and shut the vents to those rooms if you have central cooling or heating systems. This way you’ll only have to heat the spaces that matter most, which leads to less energy waste.

Unplug your appliances and turn off your lights

When items are plugged in, electricity flows from the outlet into the device, leading to wasted energy. Either unplug appliances you’re not using, or make the switch to smart strips that turn off after periods of not being used. The same energy-saving mentality applies to lights. Make it a point to turn off light in rooms that aren’t being used.

Stop buying bottled water

Few environmental issues are less contentious than plastic water bottles. Not only does the plastic take thousands of years to biodegrade if it makes its way into a landfill, it’s environmentally expensive to manufacture. Clean Up Australia states that three tonnes of carbon dioxide are emitted for every tonne of PET (the type of plastic that makes up the bottles) that is produced.

Wash your clothes differently

In Australia, many people line dry their clothing, which is a great start. However, you can make the process even greener by making a few additional changes. Hand-wash your clothing for a really environmentally friendly choice, or switch to only cold water when using the machine for a middle-of-the-road option. Seek out detergents that are plant-based and natural, and purchase products that come in recycled cardboard packaging rather than plastic.

Learn more about Apricus Solar Hot Water Systems or contact us to discuss your needs or organise a solar hot water system quote.