It can be tough to know where to start when it comes to making your home more environmentally friendly. There are so many different things you can do, and sometimes it feels like you might as well just pick one at random and hope for the best. But that’s not really the best way to go about things. Here are a few tips to help you make your home more eco-friendly.
1. Upgrade your appliances
Older appliances are much less energy-efficient than newer models, so consider upgrading to an Energy Star model if you’re in the market for a new refrigerator or dishwasher. They may cost a little more at the outset, but they’ll save you money in the long run on your energy bills.
2. Install a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat can help you save energy by automatically adjusting the temperature in your home based on whether or not you’re home. You can set it to cool or heat your home to the perfect temperature for when you’re there and save energy by not cooling or heating it when you’re not.
3. Use LED light bulbs
According to UN data, the average home consumes 29% of global energy and produces 21% of CO2 emissions. One of the easiest ways to reduce your home’s energy consumption is by using LED light bulbs. LED bulbs last 10-25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they use 80-90% less energy. This can result in significant budget savings on your energy bill.
4. Opt for Asphalt Paving
When it comes time to resurface your driveway or sidewalk, consider opting for asphalt paving instead of concrete. Asphalt is made with recycled materials, and it can be reused or recycled again when it’s time to replace it. Each year, more than 80% of the old asphalt pavement that is removed is reused. On the other hand, concrete is not as environmentally friendly. It’s not as easy to recycle, and the manufacturing process emits more CO2 emissions.
5. Install Solar Panels
Installing solar panels is one of the most effective ways to make your home more environmentally friendly. Not only do they reduce your reliance on fossil fuels, but they can also help you reduce your utility budget. Depending on the size and type of solar panel system you install, you could potentially save hundreds of dollars each year on your power bill.
6. Plant a tree
If you want to do something really simple that can have a big impact on the environment, plant a tree. Trees absorb CO2 and other pollutants from the air, and they help cool down cities and neighborhoods. They also provide shade and shelter, which can help reduce energy consumption in homes and buildings.
In addition, trees can increase property values, improve air quality, and provide a host of other benefits. So next time you’re thinking about ways to make your home more eco-friendly, don’t forget about the humble tree.
7. Install a New Energy-Efficient Roof
If your roof is more than ten years old, it’s probably time for a replacement. And if you replace it with an energy-efficient roof, you can reduce your home’s energy consumption by 30%. An energy-efficient roof is made with materials that reflect sunlight and keep the heat out of your home in the summer. It’s also designed to trap heat in your home during the winter.
In addition to saving you money on your energy bill, an energy-efficient roof can also increase the value of your home. According to the National Association of Realtors’ annual Remodeling Impact Report, a roof replacement costs $7,500, while the estimated recovered cost after a sale is $8,000, giving a 107% ROI.
8. Properly Insulate Your Home
One of the best ways to reduce your home’s energy consumption is by properly insulating it. Insulation keeps the heat in during the winter and the cool air during the summer, resulting in significant savings on your utilities budget. In addition, proper insulation can also make your home more comfortable and quieter.
There you have it. Eight simple ways to make your home more environmentally friendly. These are just a few of the many things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint and help preserve our planet. If you’d like to learn more or need assistance with any of these projects, please don’t hesitate to contact us.