Using Natural Resources

There are several tricks to using the elements to your advantage when you live in a country home. Let sunlight, wind and rain work for you in a way that is not only environmentally friendly, but cost effective for you as well.

Simple water-saving measures such as placing a small barrel under your downpipe is a good start to harvesting the rain to your advantage, but if you have an extensive garden and vegetable patch you will need more to get you through dryer days. By installing a proper rainwater harvesting tank below the ground, you can collect and store water to be used in the garden and the home, such as for flushing the toilet or running the washing machine. Some tanks can hold up to 7,000 litres.

Make the most of natural light and heating by positioning windows so that they will gain the most exposure. If you set your greenhouse lengthwise east to west, you can save on heating costs by maximising natural light and warmth. Installing a small solar panel can also be a smart way of using natural energy.