Heating - We have installed flat plate solar thermal panels inconspicuously on to the southern elevation of our barn roof to provide an ample supply of hot water. We also have our high efficiency wood pellet-fired gasification boiler heating system for both the farmhouse and the barn. The energy is provided by waste sawdust pellets, a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
The design of the control system incorporates outdoor weather compensation, providing an energy saving of between 25% and 35% over conventional thermostatic controls. The recent construction of the barn and the total refurbishment and extension of the farmhouse include modern day insulation standards, minimising our carbon footprint.
Recycling - We separate organic waste and recycle plastic glass and paper.
Drainage System - We have our own private drainage system and to maintain this we should not use any chemicals as it is a "green system". Therefore only human waste and toilet paper should be disposed of in the toilet.
Cleaning - At Challow we clean with products that have been formulated to limit the impact on the environment. We re use all the plastic and buy in bulk using ecovert, and eco toiletries. We use vinegar and lemon to clean.
We changed all our shower heads and handheld showers to Hansgrobe eco smart showers to reduce water and energy by 30% in 2020.
Use of water - We use our own well, where possible for the garden and vegetable plots, and we also try to minimalise the use of mains water where possible.
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