You may be looking to make eco-friendly home improvements for any number of reasons. Perhaps you’ve become more aware of your home’s environmental impact in recent years. Or maybe you’re looking to save on your household bills in the long run by investing in more energy-efficient solutions now. Or perhaps you want to take advantage of tax credits available for certain energy-efficient upgrades. Whatever the reason, there are many ways to make changes to your home with the environment in mind.
Here are five eco-friendly home improvements to get you started.
Replace windows and doors
Replacing your windows and doors, particularly if they’re old and drafty, could help keep your house warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
Energy-efficient doors often have a steel or fiberglass exterior and a foam interior. You could also try adding weatherstripping to seal potential leaks in your existing doors. You could do the same for your windows, or upgrade to dual- or triple-pane windows, which have better insulation.
The cost of windows can be quite high, so you’ll want to carefully consider when to make this investment. A home improvement loan from a bank, credit union or online lender could help you cover the expense. With this type of loan, you could get the money you need and pay it back in fixed monthly installments. A loan with fixed rates is helpful because you’ll know exactly how much you owe each month and can budget for it ahead of time.
Add insulation
Like windows and doors, poor insulation can make your heating and cooling work overtime. Adding insulation to your attic, ceiling, walls and floors can help keep your house more comfortable.
Depending on how your house is built, you may have to replace your flooring as well. If you do, there are eco-friendly options available, such as recycled or reclaimed wood and tiles, or even bamboo and concrete. If getting new floors is more of a long-term project, rugs or carpeting could help add year-round insulation.
Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances
Washing machines, dryers and dishwashers use a considerable amount of energy, especially if they’re on the older side. The good news is that new models are created every year to use fewer resources, save energy and help you save money on your utility bills.
One way to shop for energy-efficient products is to look for the Energy Star® logo on refrigerators, air conditioners, lightbulbs, computers and many other items. Energy Star® is a program backed by the government through the Environmental Protection Agency to certify products that meet its energy efficiency standards.
Save water with low-flow fixtures
In addition to energy, keeping an eye on how much water your appliances and fixtures use is another important consideration. Switching out your showerheads, faucets and toilets for low-flow alternatives could help reduce your water usage and your water bill.
Saving water could also happen outside your home. If you have a yard or a garden, consider collecting rainwater rather than turning on the hose every time your plants need a refresh.
Install solar panels
Solar has increased in popularity over the past few years as a more sustainable energy source that could also lower your electric bill. Adding solar panels to your roof is a cost-effective way to help heat and power your home, although it will require a professional installation and a considerable financial commitment up front. Tax credits may be available to help offset the cost, however. Check the IRS website and consult a tax expert to see if your project qualifies.
As a long-term investment, it could help reduce your reliance on fossil fuels for years to come.
Help the environment and your wallet
Even if you aren’t making eco-friendly home improvements to save money, doing so is often a by-product of investing in more energy- and water-efficient solutions. Upgrading to more environmentally conscious products, replacing your windows, doors and floors, and installing solar panels are just a few of the many environmentally friendly options available.
Take a look around your home, carefully review your monthly utility bills and see if there are changes you could make that will save you money and help the planet.
Notice: Information provided in this article is for information purposes only and does not necessarily reflect the views of thebrandhopper.com or its employees. Please be sure to consult your financial advisor about your financial circumstances and options. This site may receive compensation from advertisers for links to third-party websites.
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