There are several changes you can make to your home to make it more environmentally friendly. Even though a few require higher upfront costs, in the long run, they’ll pay for themselves. Check out these six green home improvement ideas.
1. Energy-Efficient Windows
Energy-efficient windows often have dual panes, which adds soundproofing and insulation that helps keep indoor temperatures more stable. Ultimately, these windows are highly efficient, which is good for the planet and your energy usage. To boot, if you already need new windows, go ahead and look into energy-efficient window installation.
2. Solar Panels
Harnessing the sun’s power with solar panels is a top eco-friendly upgrade. They do require a significant upfront cost, but they lessen your reliance on standard energy. Homeowners can reduce investment expenses by taking advantage of the 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit.
3. Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats are a very affordable environmentally-friendly home upgrade. The cost of a device typically starts at $50 and can increase if additional smart features are included. They can be programmed to operate at certain times, so energy isn’t wasted when no one is home. Automating your energy savings can drastically impact monthly heating and cooling expenses.
4. Low-Flow Fixtures and Rainwater Harvesting
Fresh water has become more scarce, which is unfortunate for the growing number of people and the rise in wildfires. For a more sustainable home and to conserve water, invest in low-flow fixtures throughout the laundry room, bathroom, and kitchen. Many can be self-installed and are affordable. Some ideas include tankless water heaters, low-flow shower heads, and dual-flush toilets.
Harvesting rainwater for activities around the house can reduce the need for city or well water. There are many advantages to collecting water from rainfall for use. This eco-friendly installation is easy to put in and decreases the demand for water. Furthermore, it conserves both energy and water use and does not require any type of filtration when used for landscape irrigation.
5. Sustainable Flooring
The flooring in your home can have a greater environmental impact than you realize. By
investing in eco-friendly flooring for the home during the build or a remodel project, you can minimize your environmental impact. High-quality materials like cork, bamboo, and recycled products can last for decades and are less harmful to the planet.
6. Eco-Friendly Doors
Another environmentally friendly improvement to consider is thick doors and insulated ones. Leaks indoors are as common as they are in windows, and the right materials can make a huge difference. During a green home renovation choose a material like fiberglass, steel, and wood. Investing in insulated doors can be a real money saver energy-wise.
Help the Environment with Eco-Friendly Upgrades and Installations
If you are many people, you may be looking for ways to incorporate energy-efficient additions to your home. From water-saving devices and solar panels to energy-efficient windows and doors, you can make a difference by joining the green movement. These projects can also improve your home’s appearance and increase its overall value.