Introduction
As climate change continues to influence the planet, many property owners are seeking sustainable home improvement options to limit their carbon footprint and live a greener lifestyle. Sustainable home improvements are not only good for the environment, but they can help you save money on utility bills, and even increase the value of your property! In this article, we will discuss some of the best sustainable home improvement solutions for eco-friendly living.
1. Install Energy-efficient Windows and Doors
Old drafty windows and doors can waste a lot of energy, which depletes your wallet! New windows and doors with double or triple panes of energy-efficient glass can keep your home warm during the winter and cool during the summer, therefore limiting the need to constantly heat or cool your home. Look for ENERGY STAR rated products designed for maximize insulation and energy savings and some of these windows even have UV coatings to provide your furniture and flooring protection from the sun.
2. Switch to LED Lighting
One of the most effortless ways to be more sustainable is to change your incandescent bulbs to LED lights! They consume up to 80% less energy, and last so much longer, they are a perfect option for energy-conscious homeowners. You can also take it a step further, and install dimmer switches so you can control your lighting, or motion sensors so your bulbs only emit light when necessary! You might also want to consider smart bulbs, which can be adjusted for ambience without using hazardous material!
3. Use Low-VOC Paints and Finishes
Many standard paints and finishes yield volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into our environment and atmosphere that are harmful to both our health and the planet. The next time you want to change your wall colour, or refurbish your furniture, consider using low-VOC or no-VOC paints to help preserve your indoor air quality, and safeguard a healthier space. Low-VOC and no-VOC eco-friendly paints are available in a variety of colors and finishes so that you can stay stylish while remaining safe.
4. Install Solar Panels
Utilizing solar energy is one of the simplest methods to transition to an eco-friendly life. Although the initial cost may be high, solar panels will eventually bring your electricity bills down to zero. Additionally, many governments are offering incentives/tax credits/rebates in order to lessen the cost of solar energy. Solar panels can play well with home batteries and allows you to store energy to be used at night or in the case of a blackout.
5. Upgrade to Energy Efficient Appliances
When the time comes to replace things like refrigerators, washing machines, or dishwashers, be sure you check the energy-efficient rating. Look especially at ENERGY STAR-certified appliances. These will ultimately use less electricity and water, taking a burden off your bill and the environment. Smart appliances can also often be programmed to run during off-peak hours, which will also save you on utility bills.
6. Use Recycled or Sustainable Products
Recycled materials can be used to help your home look and feel stylish, while also minimizing the need for new products. This can range from reclaimed wood, recycled glass or bamboo flooring. On top of that, recycled products are often better made, more durable, and will add character to your home while progressing towards sustainability. Consider reusing or repurposing old furniture to minimize waste (and cost).
7. Enhance Insulation in Your Home
Properly insulating the attic, walls, and floors can greatly reduce energy consumption by keeping a steady indoor temperature. When a home is insulated, it reduces the burden on heating and cooling equipment reducing energy consumption, while saving you money. Spray foam insulation is one option that provides an excellent R-value and creates an effective seal against air leak.
8. Use a Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats learn and adapt to your schedule and preferences to increase or decrease your home’s temperature when necessary. Smart thermostats automate actions, which helps save energy and keep your house comfortable where and when you need it. Many smart thermostats can even communicate with you via smartphone apps, which is convenient along with additional energy savings . In the long run, reducing costs due to heating and cooling will take its toll.
9. Create a system for harvesting rainwater
Installing a rainwater collection system means reusing rainwater to water plants, flush toilets, wash your car and more. Not only does it help lessen reliance on a municipal water supply, it conserves water in general when collecting rainwater. This is especially important in areas prone to drought. Rainwater collection systems can vary from a simple barrel collection to underground tanks connected to an irrigation system.
10. Start a Composting System
Instead of putting food scraps to the landfill or down the garbage disposal, try using them to create compost which can add nutrients back into your soil. Composting reduces the need for landfills and benefits soil quality when getting nutrients from compost instead of chemical fertilizer; it benefits the health of your garden. You can use a small compost bin in your kitchen or a slightly bigger option in the backyard, depending on space and accessibility.
Final Thoughts
Home improvements can make a sustainable home, and although they can be seen as more trend than commitment to living a healthier planet and life, taking those steps towards sustainability and eco-friendly changes can be a step towards reducing your carbon footprint, saving you money, and creating a more comfortable and healthy living environment for years to come! Whether its by swapping out a light bulb for an LED light bulb or installing solar panels to generate your own energy, every little bit helps!
