Making Your Home Eco-Friendly

When it comes to sustainable living and environmental conservation, everyone has a little part to play. With an eco-friendlier home, you can save water, save energy, save money and ultimately save the environment. All these without compromising beauty or quality. Here are a few ideas on making your home a little eco-friendlier that you may want to try out this year.

1. Change the Lighting. Whenever possible, lower energy uses by using natural sunlight, especially during the day. Install skylights in rooms that have no windows so more sunlight gets in. Remember to turn off the lights as you exit a room. And for maximum impact, replace all electrical bulbs with LED lights. They use less energy than regular bulbs and also last longer, saving you a lot of money in the long run.
2. Use water efficient shower heads and faucets. They will save you a lot of money in both water and heating bills because they reduce the amount of hot water you will use every day. Limit the time you spend in the bath too. Use the shower every day and save the bathtub for when you really need it. You can also save water by fixing water leaks in pipes and faucets or appliances like the heater and washing machine as soon as you notice them.
3. Update your electrical appliances to energy efficient models. Using old appliances in your home because they still work might not necessarily be saving money because the newer models of common appliances like dishwashers and microwave ovens are designed to use less energy. Larger appliances will help you save even more money.
4. Save energy on your laundry. Do your laundry with cold water instead of hot water. Wait for a full load of clothes before you decide to use the washing machine to save on water and energy. Where possible such as during the summer months, skip the dryer and dry your clothes on a line outside. They dry just as well.
5. Invest in solar panels. If it’s well within your budget, you might consider investing in solar panels. Although you may think the initial outlay a bit expensive, you will be able to save money in the long term and probably make some by generating electricity for others. Several local and state governments give credits for installing solar panels, find out if you are eligible from your neighborhood association.

Some eco-friendly ideas can significantly increase the value of your home. Talk to your real estate professional about the best options for your area and budget.