How To Make Living On A Narrowboat Eco-Friendly

While you might feel like you’re being energy efficient, there are always things you can do to make living on a narrowboat more eco-friendly. Here are just a few small steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint.

Reduce Water usage

While this may not be the first thing you think of, living on a narrowboat can greatly reduce your water usage. On average, a single person will use around 52,000 litres of water per year in their flat or house. On a narrowboat however, the average can drop to around 25,000 litres per year.

One of the best ways to save water is to share a lock with another boat. When you are next about to enter a lock, simply wait for around half an hour to see if another boat comes along. If another boat does arrive, then you can share the lock. Sharing a lock with another boat can save around 1,000 baths worth of water, so it’s definitely worth waiting for an extra 30 minutes the next time you’re at a lock.

Use natural cleaning products

When using cleaning products on your narrowboat, try and avoid using solutions that contain harmful chemicals, such as phosphates and triclosan. You can even create your own cleaning supplies, which could save you money in the long run.

Grow your own food

Have you spotted other narrowboat owners growing potted plants? Well, you can do the same thing with vegetables.

Provided you look after them and protect them against the elements as best as possible, you can grow vegetables  quickly. For example, radishes and salad leaves grow pretty fast, as do runner and French beans. If you decide to grow any of these vegetables, you’ll have a lovely fresh supply in no time.

Use an energy efficient washing machine

Washing machines on narrowboats can use a lot of water and power. If you can, try and purchase a washing machine that’s as small and energy efficient as possible. You’ll not be able to wash as many clothes at once as you used to, but you will save a lot of energy and in turn help the planet. Swings and roundabouts.

Insulate your narrowboat

Insulation is just as important on a narrowboat as it is for a brick and mortar home. If you don’t have proper insulation, then heat will escape from your narrowboat, forcing you to use more energy. Try and use wool insulation on your boat, as this is a good natural material. It’s also vital to have double glazed windows, including any small portholes.

Use solar power

This isn’t an option for every single narrowboat on the water. However, where possible you should start using solar power on your narrowboat. Doing something as simple as buying a solar charger for your phone and other devices can drastically reduce the amount of non-renewable energy you’re using.

While protecting the environment any way you can is important, it’s also important to have the right insurance for your narrowboat. Our specialist narrowboat insurance can fully protect your pride and joy so you don’t have to worry. Get an instant online quote today.