Save money.
Save energy.
Save water.

You've got the vision for your dream room - colours, tiles, that perfect finish. But have you thought about how it's going to perform? Energy, water, efficiency… yeah, that stuff.

Renovating isn't just a chance to make things look good, it's a golden opportunity to cut down on waste and save big where it matters. And let's be honest, that part often gets skipped in the excitement.

No worries though, that's where we come in.

We're not here to rain on your reno parade - we're here to make sure you save. Save money, save energy, save water, and yep, do your bit for the planet while you're at it.

So here's the deal: The top line on what you need to know to not just survive your reno, but absolutely crush it.

1. Water efficiency: every drop counts

Did you know that your bathroom is probably guzzling more water than you need? Yup, that fancy waterfall shower head might look amazing, but it's not doing your bills - or the environment - any favours.

Here's the fix:

• Switch to an aerated shower head- It reduces water flow without killing the pressure. Same shower bliss, less guilt.
• Power showers? Ditch 'em - They're energy vampires in disguise. Instead, go for a water-efficient model and cut your water bill by up to £70 a year.
• Choose highly efficient (HET) or ultra-low flush (ULF) toilets to minimise water use - We all know the 'which button do I press?' dilemma with dual flush. Get it right and save litres with every flush.

And if you're not ready to replace the whole thing, grab a cistern displacement device for a few quid. Trust us, it'll pay for itself.

2. Heating: warm up, without upping your bills

You don't need to crank up the heat every time winter rolls in. A smart renovation can do the work for you.

• Underfloor heating - Say goodbye to cold feet and hello to a more efficient heat distribution. Plus, it's perfect for those cold tiles.
• Dual fuel radiators - Want to warm up without turning the whole house into a sauna? These babies let you heat just the towel rail - because no one likes a soggy towel.
• Insulation is king - Up to a third of heat escapes through uninsulated walls. Stop throwing your hard-earned cash out the window by adding insulation to walls, ceilings, and floors. It's like wrapping your home in a cosy blanket.

3. Lighting: bright ideas for your renovation

Lighting is often the unsung hero of reno savings.

• LEDs for the win - Ditch the energy-sucking bulbs and swap in LEDs. You'll save over £65 a year just by making the switch in key areas like the bathroom and kitchen. Plus, they last forever (well, almost).
• Natural light? Max it out - Windows and skylights can transform a room while cutting down on the need for electric lighting. Just make sure they're energy-efficient, so you're not losing heat along with all that natural light.

4. Sustainable materials: look good, do good

Renovating isn't just about what you see; it's about what goes into it.

• FSC-certified wood - When you're choosing cabinets, floors, or custom furniture, opt for wood that's responsibly sourced. Sustainable wood looks just as good (if not better) and leaves a lighter footprint.
• Recycled materials - Whether it's countertops made from recycled glass or cabinets from repurposed wood, incorporating these into your renovation reduces waste and gives your home a unique, eco-friendly touch.
• Avoid plastic trim: - It looks cheap, it breaks down, and it's bad for the planet. Metal and glass? 100% recyclable, forever.

5. Energy-efficient appliances: big wins in small packages

When it comes to kitchen renovations, don't just think big. Think efficient.

• Fridges, dishwashers, and washing machines - Energy labels are your best friend here. Go for the best-rated model in the size you actually need. Bigger isn't always better when it comes to energy use.
• Induction hobs - These heat pots directly, not the air around them. Translation: faster, safer, and way more efficient.
• Boiling water taps - Sounds fancy, but they save water and energy. No more boiling a full kettle for one cup of tea.

6. Waste not, want not

Let's face it, renovations are messy. But they don't have to be wasteful.

• Measure twice, cut once - Avoid over-ordering and creating unnecessary waste. If you have leftovers, recycle, resell, or donate them. Reclamation yards are your new best friend.
• Reuse before you replace - Got solid wood cabinets? Don't tear them out. Repaint or refinish them instead. New look, minimal waste.
• Waste disposal - If you do need to toss stuff, make sure you're doing it responsibly. Your waste company should provide a duty of care certificate proving that everything is being disposed of properly.

7. The Passive House dream: ultimate energy efficiency

If you're going all-in on a full-scale renovation, why not aim for the stars? Passivhaus might sound like a buzzword, but it's the gold standard for energy-efficient homes. Think constant comfort without the constant heating bills. It's an investment upfront, but the savings - both financial and environmental - are massive.

The takeaway? Renovating doesn't just have to be about aesthetics. Done right, it can be about creating a space that's kinder to your wallet and the planet. And with Reno in your corner, you can get there without the stress, hidden costs, or second-guessing every decision.