The world is becoming increasingly conscious of the need to reduce and control our use of finite resources. As homeowners we can make a big difference by choosing eco-friendly upgrades for our homes. Not only do these upgrades reduce our impact on the environment, they often result in useful financial paybacks as well.
One of the most obvious energy-saving investments for your home is solar panels, such as photovoltaic (PV) or solar thermal (ST). Solar energy is abundant, free and non-polluting. PV panels convert sunlight into electricity to use in your home, while ST panels can heat water to serve all of your hot water needs. The installation of these panels will help to reduce your energy bills, while mitigating any negative impact on the environment.
Another way to reduce your environmental footprint is to invest in energy-efficient windows. These windows are designed to reduce heat loss, so your home will maintain a comfortable temperature without creating a larger carbon footprint. Energy-efficient windows can significantly reduce your energy costs, as you won’t need to keep your air conditioner running all the time.
Energy Efficient Appliances
Eco-friendly upgrades of your home include replacing old and outdated appliances with energy efficient models. Many governments offer incentives and rebates for buying energy efficient appliances, which can offset your upfront costs. Mini-splits, energy efficient stoves, washers and dryers, and LED lighting are all smarter choices when it comes to energy use.
Your heating and cooling systems are also significant contributors to your overall energy use. Consider replacing your old furnace and air conditioning system with a newer, more energy efficient model. The most effective systems use less energy to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, resulting in lower utility bills.
Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) Rating for Your Home
The Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) rating system is a scoring sheet used to evaluate and certify green buildings. It is a comprehensive rating system based on various criteria, and scores your home’s eco-friendly features against a set of predetermined standards. The higher the score, the more eco-friendly your home is.
Eco-friendly upgrades can help boost your home’s LEED rating, and may even qualify your home for tax incentives and lower insurance premiums. These upgrades can also make your home more attractive to potential buyers if you plan to sell in the future.
Achieving a higher LEED rating is all about reducing and controlling your home’s energy use. Eco-friendly upgrades are the most effective way to do this, as they will help you to become more energy efficient, while maintaining the same level of comfort.
Benefits of Eco-Friendly Upgrades
- Reduce energy costs
- Lower your carbon footprint
- Increase the value of your home
- Improve efficiency and comfort in your home
- Make your home more marketable if you plan to sell in the future
- Qualify for tax incentives and lower insurance premiums
- Boost your home’s LEED score
Conclusion
Eco-friendly upgrades are an investment in the future of our planet. Not only do these upgrades reduce your environmental impact, they can also save you money in the short-term. As homeowners, we can all take action to make our homes energy efficient and more sustainable. The rewards can be great, both financially and in terms of sustainability.