Saving money is one of the chief motivations behind taking on a home improvement project. If done correctly, home improvements can make a big difference in your bottom line. Not only do home improvements increase the value of your home, but they can also save you money in the long run in unexpected ways. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
1) Replace Old Appliances – Today’s energy efficient models can help you save big time on your monthly bills. Whether it’s a dishwasher, refrigerator, or washing machine, new models offer many amenities that older ones do not have. The cost savings will be immediate.
2) Upgrade Your Insulation – By upgrading the insulation in your home, you can effectively reduce energy costs by up to 20 percent. There are many insulation options available so it’s worth investing in research to ensure that you make the right decision for your home.
3) Install Window Treatments – Installing energy efficient window treatments is an easy way to reduce energy costs. Shades, blinds and curtains can act as natural insulators and keep your home comfortable and keep energy costs down.
4) Utilize Natural Light – Natural light not only radiates warmth in the summer, but it saves you money on electricity in the winter. Adding lots of large windows to your home will help you save on lighting bills as well as provide a much sunnier atmosphere.
5) Install a Programmable Thermostat – Programmable thermostats allow you to set specific times when you want the temperature to be at certain levels, such as during the night when you’re sleeping. This will save you from having to constantly adjust the thermostat and help you reduce energy costs.
6) Reduce Water Usage – Adding aerators to your faucet heads can reduce water usage by up to 70 percent. Installing low-flow showerheads can also help you reduce your water consumption and save you money.
7) Utilize Fan Power – Ceiling, portable and bathroom fans can be a great way to help circulate air in your home and reduce air conditioning costs. Adding a few fans to your home can save you substantial amounts of money in cooling costs.
The next step in saving money with home improvements is to explore green construction techniques. Many people are discovering the many benefits of using sustainable green materials to build and remodel their homes. Options such as recycled wood, bamboo floors and solar energy can help your home go green and reduce your home’s environmental impact.
Investing in smart technology is another great way to save money at home. Intelligent technologies allow you to control your home systems remotely to save energy costs. A few examples of these technologies include thermostats that can be easily controlled from a smartphone, programmable lighting, and automated sprinkler systems.
When it comes to creating a more efficient home, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get a big payoff. Simple additions such as bathroom vanities, kitchen cabinets and closets can make a big difference in improving your home’s efficiency.
Homeowners are also discovering the many benefits of investing in their outdoor living spaces. Adding decks, pergolas and outdoor lighting can help extend the living space of your home and make it more enjoyable to spend time outdoors.
Finally, those interested in really taking their home improvements to the next level should consider investing in renewable energy tools. Options such as solar panel kits and wind turbines are a great way to generate your own power and reduce energy bills for years to come.
Doing your own home improvements can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience that can help you save money in the long run. Regardless of your budget or skill level, there are many ways to save energy and lower costs at home. From eco-friendly construction initiatives to smart home technologies, making your home efficient can be within reach. Consider taking on an energy saving home improvement project today and start enjoying the many benefits of a more efficient home.