There has never been a better time to take steps to make your home more environmentally friendly, with so many amazing devices and technologies for you to utilize.

Whether you want to reduce your energy bills, do your bit for the planet, or a bit of both, discover five ways to lower your home’s carbon footprint below, with budget-friendly options and more costly changes to choose from.

1.   Invest in solar panels

If you want to make a big change to your home and you have some cash put aside, then investing in a solar energy system is a great idea. Providing you with the ability to generate your own power rather than be reliant on the grid, you can enjoy significant savings on your energy bills and help to reduce your home’s carbon footprint.

Plus, you will be pleased to hear that the price of solar panels has dropped by around 70% in the last decade, meaning that you can take advantage of the power of the sun without breaking the bank.

2.   Install underfloor heating

There seems to be a misconception that underfloor heating is expensive, when in fact, the opposite is true. Offering a highly cost-effective way to heat your home during the colder months of the year, underfloor heating is also much better for the environment than other types of heating systems.

For optimum results, install underflooring heating throughout your home or, if that is cost-prohibitive, place it in high-traffic areas such as in the hallways and the kitchen.

3.   Use smart thermometers

Are your heating bills higher than you would like? With the price of gas and electricity soaring, households need to look for ways to reduce their usage and lower their bills.

Smart thermometers are a relatively new technology that enables you to control and heat your home wherever you are. This means that you can turn off your heating if you have to stay late at work or turn it on when you are on the way home.

Check out this guide to understanding smart thermostats to find out more about how they can lower your home’s carbon footprint and reduce your heating costs.

4.   Switch to LED lightbulbs

One of the most affordable ways to make your home more sustainable and lower your carbon footprint, LED lightbulbs are much more energy efficient than standard ones.

These types of bulbs also have a much longer lifespan and are more energy-efficient, so you can save money and do your bit for the planet.

You can find LED lightbulbs in both warm and cooler tones and these can be used in every room in your home, as well as in your outdoor areas.

5.   Shop locally

When it comes to shopping for your household, you should always try to shop locally where possible as this will help to minimize your impact on the environment.

Although some people worry that local stores are more expensive than large superstores, you can find some great bargains at local farm shops and independent stores as long as you are prepared to shop around.

Also, rather than drive to your nearest store, try to walk where possible or take public transport as this will also help to reduce your overall carbon footprint.