Today, it’s more important than ever to consider the environment when making upgrades to your home or purchasing a new place. The planet has a limited number of natural resources, and energy costs are climbing. While there are plenty of home improvements that instantly make a place eco-friendly, some of these upgrades are costly. Smart homeowners must find ways to give their homes an environmentally-friendly makeover without spending too much. Here six ways you can green your home inexpensively.
Table of Contents
1. Turn It Off
One of the easiest ways to conserve energy, save on utility costs, and reduce your use of natural resources is to turn things off. When you leave a room, turn off the lights. When you’re done using an electronic, turn it off and unplug it. If you’re planning to go away for a few days for a vacation, go through your house and turn off major appliances, such as your water heater and air conditioner to reduce your energy usage.
2. Opt for Alternatives
Another way to save energy and lower your energy bill is to look for alternatives to your biggest energy-sucking appliances. When your clothes are done in the washing machine, skip the dryer and hang them up outside instead. Your clothes will get that warm, sun-kissed smell and look great while you save money. During the warmer months of the year, give your oven a rest when cooking meals. Instead, fire up your grill for dinner that night, or go for your microwave to help reduce your carbon footprint.
3. Conserve Water
Besides energy, it’s also wise to help conserve water at home. Drinkable water is not an unlimited resource, and it’s important to practice responsible habits that acknowledge that. First, instead of taking baths, get in the shower during your morning routine to save on gallons of water. Turn off the faucet when you brush your teeth, and collect rainwater for your plants instead of turning on the hose. Research water conservation projects such as the Cadiz Water Project to find out more.
4. Monitor Your Home’s Temperature
Next, take special care to keep the temperature inside of your home consistent. Lower the thermostat a few degrees in the winter to save on your energy costs and increase the temperature a bit in the summer. Look for ways to cool or warm your home instantly without additional air conditioning or heat services. Installing heavy blinds on your windows can help keep the cool air inside during the summer and the warm air inside during the winter.
5. Plant Trees and Shrubs
Another money-saving tip that can help boost your energy savings is to plant trees and shrubs. Planting trees and shrubs around your home can add natural shade to your space inside, reducing the amount of air conditioning you need during the summer. You can also strategically plant trees and shrubs around your air conditioning unit outside to act as an insulator and help improve its efficiency and lower the cost of operating it.
6. Seal Cracks
Finally, the last way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and performance is to remove any spaces where air escapes from the outside. Go through your home and check along all doors and windows for tiny cracks. Pick up a cheap caulking set and seal up any spaces to get an instant energy-savings boost in your home. Then, you won’t have to worry about freezing cold air creeping into your home in the winter or stifling hot air infiltrating your house in the summer.
Homeowners need to take steps to ensure their homes don’t become energy vampires and contribute to the planet’s struggle. You can do your part while also saving money to make this planet healthier.
