Green Home Improvement: Eco-Friendly Upgrades Around the House
When it comes to home improvement, it’s no secret that going green can be expensive. But there is good news – many eco-friendly upgrades don’t have to break your bank. Start by looking at how you can make green upgrades to your home by investing in certain upgrades at an affordable cost.
Lighting is an area with easy access to green energy upgrades. By switching out your old bulbs with LED or compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), you can reduce the amount of energy used in your home and save on energy bills. LED lights are even sturdier and longer lasting than CFLs, but both will still save you money on electric bills.
Another simple yet effective green upgrade is changing or updating your home furnishings. Swap out old furniture for fresher pieces made with renewable and sustainable materials. Look for pieces made from various woods, wicker, rattan, bamboo, seagrass, or recycled materials. Not only will you improve the look and feel of your home, you’ll be helping reduce the amount of waste going into landfills.
By investing in a few energy efficient upgrades, you can help reduce your carbon footprint even further. Consider replacing your current appliances such as refrigerators, washer/dryers, dishwashers, and air conditioners with energy efficient models. For windows, opt for double or triple-pane glass and energy efficient frames. These upgrades can often help you qualify for energy credits from the government as well.
Insulation is another essential part of a green home improvement project. Higher quality insulation keeps the temperature of your home comfortable in the winter and reduces the amount of energy you use when cooling in the summer. Adding insulation to the attic, foundation, and other areas of your home can help you save up to 15% on heating and cooling costs.
Installing solar panels is one of the smartest investments you can make for a green home. This eliminates energy bills and helps reduce your carbon footprint. While upfront costs are typically higher, in the long run you could save thousands each year. It’s best to invest in high quality solar panels to take advantage of maximum efficiency rates.
Finally, think of ways you can save energy naturally. This could include landscaping with trees and shrubs that provide shade, keeping windows shut and locking during the hottest parts of the day, using fans to circulate the air, or simply making sure you switch off the lights when you leave a room.
Adding plants to your home space is an easy way to make it look more green while helping reduce air pollution. With the current trend of indoor gardens and air purifying plants, many homeowners have reaped the benefits of adding plants to their home. Opt for air-purifying plants such as snake plants, ivy, spider plants, and bamboo palms. Additionally, cacti and succulents are great for adding a sustainable, living touch to your decor.
The bathroom is often overlooked when it comes to eco-friendly upgrades. The key is to reduce water waste and opt for accessories made from sustainable materials. Installing energy-efficient showerheads and low-flow faucets helps reduce water consumption significantly – while also reducing your water bills. To utilize water even further, consider installing a “gray water” system for the shower, sink, and washing machine. This would filter and collect the used water before it’s released for other uses.
When it comes to eco-friendly upgrades, the kitchen is probably the most important room in the house. From energy-efficient range hoods to water-saving dishwashers, the kitchen has an abundance of green upgrades available. Invest in Energy Star appliances which can save you an average of 30% on your electric bill. Additionally, look for countertops and cabinets made from recycled materials.
The options for green upgrades to your home extend even further. You can look into various technologies such as remote thermostat controls, natural ventilation, smart meters, and more. Think of how you can properly implement automation into your home. Smart heating systems and automated windows can help you make use of natural sunlight more efficiently.
As you can see, green home improvement doesn’t have to be expensive. Through investing in a few thoughtfully chosen eco-friendly upgrades, you can easily go green while still saving money. The possibilities are endless – so start looking into possible green upgrades for your home today.