6 Ways to Make Your Home Greener

Many eco-conscious homeowners are examining ways in which their homes impact the environment and how they can improve sustainability. Here are just a few tips to go green and help lower your home’s environmental impact.

Proper Insulation: Having the right insulation in your home is an important measure you can take to save energy. Proper insulation means less warm air escapes from your home during the winter and less cool air escapes during the summer. This reduces the amount of energy needed to heat and cool your home and helps lower your energy bill.

Go Solar: Many homeowners view solar power as the energy source of the future and it’s easy to see why. Solar panels can be attached to your roof to help power your home with an energy source that’s clean, renewable and cost-effective. It’s a sensible home upgrade that’s great for the environment and your wallet.

Upgrade to Resource and Energy-Efficient Appliances: Many manufacturers understand the importance and appeal of energy and resource-efficient appliances and are bringing energy-efficient versions of everyday home appliances to market. Items like low-flush toilets, energy-efficient washers, dryers and refrigerators, and smart thermostats go a long way in making your home sustainable. Look for ENERGY STAR-certified products which will use anywhere from 10 to 50 percent less energy each year than a non-energy efficient equivalent.

Don’t Forget About Landscaping: The outside of a home has just as much impact as what’s going on inside the home. To go green outside, homeowners are creating gardens with food plants and trees, irrigation tubes and dry landscaping---the use of desert plants and features to help minimize water use. Studies have shown that even lawn maintenance habits can impact the environment. For example, mowing a lawn too short can significantly impact grass’ ability to pull CO2 out of the atmosphere. As you landscape this year, keep these things in mind. Small steps can greatly reduce your home’s impact on the local environment.

Minimize Waste by Recycling and Composting: Two items that are great for going green at home are a recycling bin and a composter. A recycling bin helps reduce material waste that can then be repurposed. And a composter can turn your food waste into gardening materials like mulch or potting soil.

Use Reclaimed Items: Are you planning to remodel your home or build a new one? You may consider using reclaimed wood. This helps curb deforestation by decreasing the demand for newly sourced lumber. And if furnishing your home, look for décor or furniture made from recycled materials.

Creating a sustainable home not only helps you save energy and money, it also contributes to preserving our planet’s natural resources. Whether you’re building a custom home, remodeling, or just want to be more environmentally friendly, try incorporating a few of these green initiatives along the way.

 

 

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