An energy-efficient home is worth the time and investment. If you think about your daily routine, most of us are probably wasting more resources than we realize. This results in expensive utility bills and it negatively impacts our planet in bigger ways than we may be able to fathom.
Fortunately, we live in an era where state-of-the-art technology and innovation make it possible to live more efficiently. With all the technology around us, it’s baffling why more people are not aiming for greener living.
It’s not difficult to have a more energy efficient home, but it does require some work on your part. Here are four tips to start making your home more energy-efficient.
4 Tips for a More Energy-Efficient Home
1. Install Low Flow Showerheads
The first place you could start is low flow showerheads. This eco-friendly solution is one of the easiest ways to conserve water. Installing a low flow showerhead enables you to use fewer gallons of water per minute, saving you (and the planet) a lot of water with practically no downsides.
To compare, most low flow showerheads have a flow rate of 2.5 gpm (gallons per minute), while traditional showerheads use about 5 gallons per minute. Overall, you’re not just lowering your monthly water bill, you’re also doing the Earth a favor as well.
2. Adjust Your Thermostat
By developing a habit of adjusting your thermostat, you’re making your home a lot more energy-efficient. One of the best ways to do this is adjusting your thermostat when you leave your home. When you leave, make it a habit to lower the temperature in the winter and raise it in the summer. You could also opt to turn off it off completely.
This tip costs you nothing and will even save you money in the long run. According to Energy.gov, lowering the temperature by 10 to 15 degrees while you’re out for work can help save 5% to 15% annually.
3. Install Solar Panels
There’s a good chance that you’ve heard of solar panels and how popular they are these days. Installing solar panels is a big step toward a more energy-efficient home, but the price may make you think twice. The initial cost of solar panels is expensive. However, the benefits of solar panels are more than worth the initial investment.
Using solar panels to heat water and generate electricity is about as green as you can get. On top of lowering your utility costs, solar panels can increase the value of your home and help you qualify for tax incentives.
4. Get Energy-Efficient Air Conditioning
Although your old air conditioning system is still working, it’s likely lacking in terms of efficiency. A modern air conditioning system offers better energy-saving features and complies with energy-efficiency standards set by the EPA.
We know that an AC system can be expensive, but imagine the money that you can save over the years with a properly functioning system. Modern AC systems use about 10% to 15% less energy and emit significantly fewer greenhouse emissions.
Onwards to a Greener, Energy-Efficient Home
These are just some of the changes that you can make for a more energy-efficient home. With little adjustments here and there, you’re on your way to greener living. After that, you can invest in methods that will increase not only your home’s energy efficiency, but also its value.
CTA text: Want a more energy efficient home?
CTA button: Learn more