As the impacts of climate change start to become more visible, saving the planet has become a topic that’s on just about everyone’s mind. But while saving the earth is crucial, upgrading your home for energy efficiency is also a great way to save money.
Eco-friendly upgrades lower power consumption substantially, saving the planet and your financial stability.
So if you’re searching for meaningful ways to upgrade your home, here are some top options.
Solar Power
Solar power does require a substantial upfront investment, and these costs can scare off interested homeowners. However, there are financing options available to ease the initial cost. Moreover, the system will inevitably pay for itself as your utility bill decreases significantly.
A solar installation company will be able to give you a detailed quote that’s relevant to your unique property and energy needs. The company will break down the costs for you during a home inspection, and you might even be eligible for financial benefits after switching to solar.
Double-Pane Windows
It might seem hard to believe, but just one extra pane of window glass can dramatically decrease your power bill. Double-pane windows are energy-efficient. These windows will lower your power bill by maintaining indoor temperatures better.
The space in between the panes is filled with gas that is slightly denser than air, which maximizes insulation.
A Smart Thermostat
Smart thermostats are great investments that don’t cost much at all. These thermostats will automatically control indoor temperatures to make sure your home isn’t being heated when you’re not home.
You won’t need to remember to program the thermostat before leaving home, and you won’t need to worry about coming home to the cold in winter, either.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Older appliances were not created with the planet in mind, so they tend to consume large amounts of power just to operate.
Newer appliances all need to meet energy-efficiency ratings. So simply upgrading your kitchen appliances can massively reduce your power consumption. This upgrade will also boost property value dramatically.
Smart Lighting
Smart lighting might seem like a bit of a novelty upgrade. But these light bulbs offer more than a few funky lighting colors. Smart light bulbs also use less energy.
A Solar Water Heater
If you don’t have the funds to invest in solar panels, you could opt for a more affordable solar water heater. Because water heaters are responsible for the bulk of your utility bill, switching to a solar heater can make a significant difference to the planet and your monthly finances.
There are several meaningful upgrades that can decrease your power consumption, boost home value, and lend a hand in planet conservation. Even if you can’t afford to switch to solar power, there are still other upgrades to consider.
Once you have invested in meaningful home upgrades, you can also consider switching to eco-friendly household cleaning products, driving less, and recycling. Even the smallest effort to save the planet will make a difference.
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