Making your home more environmentally friendly doesn’t have to be a difficult process. Here are some simple tips to help you get started. Using these tips will help reduce your home’s energy consumption, waste and carbon footprint.
Install Energy-Efficient Appliances
Invest in Energy Star appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines and dishwashers. These appliances are designed to use less energy than non-Energy Star versions and can save you money. With home improvement spending in 2020 averaging over $8,000, it’s vital to save money where you can and energy-efficient appliances are a great way to do that.
In addition to appliances, consider installing energy-efficient light bulbs and LED lighting. These lights use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer.
Use Natural Light Where Possible
Natural light can make your living space more inviting and reduce the need to use artificial lighting. During the day, keep your curtains and blinds open to let in as much natural light as possible. With Americans spending around 90% of their time indoors, according to HouseFresh, it’s important to let in as much natural light as possible.
Install Solar Panels
Solar panels are one of the most popular ways to go green at home. Not only will they help reduce your carbon footprint and save money on energy bills, but solar panels can also increase the value of your home. Installing solar panels can be a complicated process, so it’s important to research the best options for your home before making any decisions.
For instance, consider the size of your roof and how much direct sunlight it receives. You will also need to decide whether you want to buy or lease the solar panel system.
Recycle Materials
One Yale study showed U.S. recycling levels are currently at 21.4%, showing there is still plenty of room for improvement. Encourage your family to get into the habit of recycling materials at home, such as paper, plastic and glass. Use reusable bags when shopping, and donate any unwanted items instead of throwing them away.
You can also recycle other materials, such as furniture and clothing. Look for ways to reuse or repurpose items instead of buying new ones.
Conserve Water
Water conservation is an important part of making your home more eco-friendly. Plumbing systems were one of the most commonly repaired for homes in 2019, with 27.94% of respondents citing as such. Install low-flow showerheads and toilets to reduce water consumption in the bathroom. Check your faucets and pipes for any leaks, and fix them as soon as possible.
Finally, avoid using your sprinkler systems too often. If you’re concerned about your lawn, consider planting drought-tolerant plants that require less water. These tips can help reduce your water consumption and save you money on water bills.
Reconsider Your Landscaping
Drought-tolerant plants can be a great way to reduce your water consumption. Consider replacing any grassy areas with native plants that are well-suited to the climate you live in. Additionally, use organic fertilizers and soil amendments to help promote healthy plant growth and avoid chemical runoff into waterways.
To help you learn which plants are best for your climate, contact a local gardening center or research online. They can help you find plants that will thrive and help your garden become more eco-friendly. In addition, they can get you paired with the right organic fertilizers and soil amendments to ensure your garden is healthier in the long run.
Consider Alternative Home Heating
When it comes to making your home more eco-friendly, one of the best ways is to switch from a traditional heating system to a greener option. Consider investing in geothermal heat pumps or solar heating systems, which can be more efficient and cost-effective in the long run. Additionally, research if any government rebates are available for your area to help offset the cost of installation.
These simple tips can help you make your home more eco-friendly and reduce its environmental impact. Making small changes to your lifestyle can have a big impact on the environment, so get started today!
Elor McDori
