Are you looking to make your home greener? Going green offers many benefits. It is not only better for the planet, but it can also be a benefit to your wallet. Here are six easy ways to make your house eco-friendly.
1. Make sure your home is properly insulated
Drafty homes can lead to higher gas and electric bills if they are not properly insulated. Take a look at insulation installationYou should inspect your home for areas that might be contributing to poor heat regulation. An uninsulated attic, for example, can let warm and cold air through the roof. Insulating your basement and wall cavities will also help keep your home’s temperatures under control.
It is also important to choose the right type of insulation. All eco-friendly options include fiberglass, cellulose, stone mineral wool insulation, and even hemp.
You can install area rugs on uninsulated floors. Window insulation film is also beneficial for drafty windows.
2. Install solar panels
Installation Solar panels can be a great option to lower your energy bills. There is another benefit. Because solar panels are so good for the environment, they reduce our dependence on fossil-fuels and increase gas emissions. Therefore, the government often offers tax credits or rebates to homeowners who choose to make this eco-friendly home renovation. This is a great option for most people in the US. It can be combined with other energy sources so that you’re not completely dependent on solar panels.
3. Invest in Smart Thermostats
Heating of spaceThis accounts for approximately 42% residential energy consumption. Smart thermostats can be an effective way to reduce the heat in your home. They learn your heating preferences and schedule to automatically adjust the temperature.
4. Upgrade to LED Lights
You’ve probably already heard that upgrading to LED is possible. Light bulbsIt is one of most eco-friendly choices you can make for your house. You may not know this shocking statistic: LED light bulbs can reduce electricity usage by 80%. It’s time to get rid off those incandescent bulbs.
5. Replace Your Old Appliances
Although it may seem counterproductive to purchase new appliances, even if your current gadgets work well, it can make the environment more sustainable. You will benefit from upgrading to energy-efficient appliances if your appliances are older than 10 years.
These are some things you should keep in mind when deciding if your appliances need to be replaced.
- Gas stoves are less efficient than modern induction cookers. Although it may not sound eco-friendly, electric stoves are more environmentally friendly than gas stoves. They emit carbon monoxide to the atmosphere.
- New washers use 75% less water per wash than washers 20 years ago.
- A new energy efficient dishwasher can save as much as 3,870 gallons over its lifetime.
6. Consider upgrading the windows in your home
You might consider adding more windows to your home, whether you’re building your dream home, or renovating your existing home. Skylights can bring light and warmth into your home.
It also matters what type of windows you include in your home. Double-glazed, triple-glazed windows with fiberglass frames or glass windows can help keep your home’s interior warm. You can also include large, energy-efficient windows into your home’s design.
These are just six easy ways to make your home more eco-friendly. You can make small changes to your home that will benefit the environment and save you money in the long-term.
