Some of the most popular current trends in today’s homes are eco-friendly features. Many home buyers look for these features when searching for their ideal home. Green technology and home features result in a healthy life for you and your family. Energy efficiency in your home can save you money, help the environment, and improve your comfort.
It’s easy being green without spending a fortune! Whether you have just purchased a new home or you’ve owned your house for years, you can make it more eco-friendly without breaking your budget. Plus, it will save you money in the long run as well as add value to your home!
Here are some easy ways you can make your home greener and more eco-friendly:
Buy energy-efficient appliances. When you trade your current appliances for Energy Star appliances, they use less electricity and water than other appliances. They also use 10%-50% less energy than standard appliance models.
Insulate pipes. Insulate the attic, ductwork, pipes, and water heater to get maximum use.
Use less paper. You can get everything from toilet paper to napkins that are made out of 100% post-consumer recycled paper. Also, be sure to use cloth bags at the grocery store instead of paper (or plastic).
Reduce power consumption. Turn lights off when not in use, and switch incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, which use 50% less power.
Adjust the thermostat. Just lower the temperature of your home by a degree or two and you probably won’t even notice it. But you’ll notice the savings on your energy bill!
Decorate with indoor plants. You can improve the quality of the air in your home with plants. Check with a local nursery to find out which ones will work best in your home.
Get Energy Star windows. Replace single pane windows with double pane windows for savings and comfort year round.
Clean your home. Use environmentally-friendly and vegetable-based cleaning products to get your home clean in an eco-friendly way. These green products don’t cause skin or respiratory problems, so they are safe.
Lower water usage. Replace shower heads with low-flow heads, which use less water. Replace leaking faucets as soon as possible.
You can get the value of your home before and after your eco-friendly improvements. Simply contact Neighborhood IQ for a free home value report today so that you can find out if you made the right green choices for your home!
