George K.
Whether you want to improve the value of your home or you are simply trying to reduce the carbon footprint of your household, there are a few conscious improvements that you can make. They add value to your space and have amazing returns on investment. The following are a few sustainable additions to your household.
1. Tankless Water Heaters
Most homeowners are familiar with their water heaters. They sit in the corner of your basement or garage and supply your household with hot water. However, many homeowners do not realize how much heat it consumes. Your water heater cycles on and off to maintain your desired temperatures. If it is electric, you may end up spending a lot of money on energy bills over time. Tankless or on-demand water heaters are a great idea. They are efficient as you only heat the water you need. There are many tankless water heaters in the market, and a professional can help you pick the best one.
2. Solar Panels
Since their invention decades ago, solar panels have come a long way. Today, you can find a solar panel for any of your needs. They are a great addition to a conscious household. Before getting a solar system for your home, the experts from ArtisanElectricInc.com suggest that you get an energy audit and your desired energy efficiency improvements. That way, you can find a system that is perfectly sized for the needs of your home. If it is too big, you will be wasting money, and if it is too small, it may not meet your household’s energy needs. A professional will help you strike a balance.
3. Non-Toxic Carpet
Consider getting a non-toxic carpet for your household. Carpets are an essential addition to any home. They promote energy-efficiency, reduce noise, and keep your toes comfortable. The right carpet will keep your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. If you have been thinking of changing your flooring, non-toxic carpets may be a great idea. Non-toxic carpets are safe for your family and pets and are energy-efficient on top of this.
4. Efficient Exterior Doors
Consider getting energy-efficient exterior doors for your household. Conditioned air may be escaping through the edges of your exterior door. You may, therefore, need more energy to keep your home in the winter. With inefficient exterior doors, your AC may need to work extra hard in the summer. The right doors should have the following features:
- Tight fit to the frame
- Multi-paned glass
- Improved materials
If you need help picking the most efficient exterior doors for your household, consider checking the requirements provided by the Department of Energy.
5. Indoor Plants or a Garden
A garden may be great for your household. If you do not have the space for it, consider getting a few indoor plants. Whatever works well indoors will be equally great outdoors. Plants are not only beautiful but also good for your health. They take in carbon dioxide and breathe out oxygen. They are great for the environment as well. Your garden can serve as a habitat for wildlife. Pollination makes it possible for butterflies, bees, and other insects to survive.
If you choose to plant a garden, avoid chemical fertilizers as much as possible. Consider composting with recyclable material and placing it over your garden to eliminate the need for fertilizers. It may also help you save water.
6. Use Energy Star Appliances
If you plan on getting new appliances for your home, look for the Energy Star logo. The star is an indication that the manufacturer has met specified guidelines. The guidelines are set in place to help you save both money and energy. If, for example, you have a fridge that is ten years or older, it probably consumes twice as much energy as a new one. When trying to create a conscious household, consider replacing appliances such as your dishwasher, water heater, washer and dryer, electric oven, and refrigerator. Even though it may seem like an expensive move, it helps you save money in the long run.
In conclusion, maintaining a sustainable home is not as difficult as it may seem. There are lots of additions and improvements that you can make without necessarily seeking professional help. However, you may need a contractor for tasks such as solar panel installation and installing efficient exterior doors. With some effort and creativity, you do not only improve the value of your home but also minimize your carbon footprint. You can get high returns on your investment while supporting the environment at the same time.
