Home-owners are constantly reminded of the costs of running a home. Whether it’s bills, a sudden leak in the roof, or outdated fixtures and wallpaper, a home requires care, attention, and cash. “Going green” is on many homeowners list of long term goals, but if you have just moved into your new home, or if you would like to take some time to consider long-term investments, there are ways you can start small. These home improvements will not only protect the environment, they will cut your bills while you are deciding on the next big project for your home.

1. Update appliances, replace lighting and get energy saving wall outlets. If you’re not yet in a position to do major updates on your home’s heating system, you can replace some of your appliances, and implement some quick fixes that will make your home more energy efficient. Refrigerators and dryers are some of the most energy intensive appliances. Choose an appliance that has an energy star rating. These federally mandated energy guidelines give an energy rating for new and more efficient appliances. Replace your existing lighting with LED lighting. LED lighting is 90% more efficient than incandescent lightbulbs. You can also buy energy smart wall plugs which stop powering devices when they are in standby mode.
2. Buy a smart thermostat. Using a smart thermostat can quickly start to reduce wasteful energy consumption by reducing heating during periods when no one is at home or everyone is asleep. If they are installed in different rooms, smart thermostats be programmed to heat rooms where their movement sensor can detect activity. For example if you are working in a home office during the day, the thermostat can heat that room but not the others in the house.
3. Install Flow Shower and Faucet Heads. Low flow shower and faucet heads are easy to install and instantly make a big difference to your water consumption. A low flow showerhead can decrease water consumption by up to 40%.
4. Solar Panels. Solar panels may seem like a big investment but they may be cheaper than you think. You can avail of the federal solar panel tax credit and you may also be able to apply for additional state rebates and incentives through your local electricity supply company. If you live in a state with a lot of sunshine like California, solar panels are extremely efficient and will start to pay for themselves immediately by reducing your energy bills drastically.
5. Insulating or replacing windows, doors and pipes. Especially in older homes, windows and doors may be draughty and cause your home to lose heat – or to heat up too quickly. You can replace windows and doors with dual panel or other efficient windows, or you can re-insulate or re-caulk any cracks with non-toxic insulating material. If you are not yet ready to upgrade your inefficient water heater, you can insulate water pipes, which can improve the efficiency of your water heating system.

If you are wondering how to improve your home’s efficiency ASAP, our Earth Science Design consultants can advise you on many quick fixes you can make to save energy and protect the environment. Please contact us.