A Greener Home Saves Energy, Money, and the Planet

There are multiple reasons why it’s important to consider a greener, more sustainable life at home and in the workplace. Foremost, our current way of life is no longer sustainable, and the consequences of not acting more responsibly can mean catastrophic changes to our planet. 

And there is the fact that not only is our supply of gas and oil not limitless, but the prices for them will also continue to rise. Reducing our carbon footprint and the impact we have on the planet is something we should take seriously.

Easy Ways to Save Energy at Home

There are some simple things you can do right now that cost very little to improve your energy efficiency at home. The department of energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68 degrees in winter and 78 degrees in summer. 

Open the drapes on south-facing windows to allow the sun to heat your home, then close them at night to prevent heat from escaping. 

Add caulk or weatherstripping around doors and windows and seal air leaks around pipes and the chimney. 

Schedule a maintenance check-up for your HVAC to ensure it’s working at full efficiency and replace filters regularly. 

Replace the bulbs in your home with more efficient LED bulbs, and remember to turn off lights when you leave a room and when you leave the house.

Home Upgrades

A good place to start with making energy upgrades to your home is by replacing the insulation in your walls. Spray foam insulation is the most durable and effective type of insulation. It is resistant to mold, resists moisture, and stays put until removed. 

Another great investment in reducing your energy footprint is installing solar panels on your roof. Solar technology has been significantly improved and is now complemented by solar battery storage systems,  turning solar into a significantly more efficient source of clean energy. You can expect to save enough in six years to pay yourself back for the cost of the solar panel installation. 

Installing dual pane windows, which have air between the two pieces of glass, will prevent heat loss in winter and help keep cool air from escaping in summer. 

By making these upgrades, you’re not only saving energy, but you are increasing your home’s appraised value. Be sure to keep track of improvements, including taking before and after photos. And keep receipts in order to be able to quantify your home’s increase in value.

Saving Water

Water is the most precious resource on earth, and with continued water shortages, it’s important for all of us to preserve and use water more efficiently and with less waste. 

You can start by installing low-flow showerheads and faucets and taking shorter showers. 

Dual flush toilets allow you to choose between a full flush or a half-flush, depending on the amount of waste you want to be removed from the toilet bowl.

Another good way to save water is by purchasing a rainwater collection system to use for things like gardening or other outdoor activities like washing your car.

Consider your grass lawn. Getting rid of your lawn will save lots of water.

An Eco-Friendly Backyard

Look for plants native to your area.  Once established, native plants require very little maintenance since they are naturally resistant to local pests and diseases. This means there is no need for pesticides, and will require less water usage.

Plant rain gardens. They are attractive landscaping elements that capture and filter out pollutants from stormwater. According to The Groundwater Foundation, “rain gardens are effective in removing up to 90% of nutrients and chemicals and up to 80% of sediments from rainwater runoff.”

When mowing, leave your grass higher; no more than a third of the blade length. Your lawn will retain more water and be healthier. And leave your grass clippings on the lawn since they are mostly water and rich in nutrients. 

Homeowners who live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle are by and large healthier, save more money, and sleep better, knowing they are doing their part to leave the planet a better place for future generations.

Planting native plants and succulents will save even more water while creating an inviting space for birds, bees and wildlife.