Think Green, Go Green, And Save On Your Utility Bills

It’s not easy going green, and green home improvements can burn a hole in your pocket. 

Many homeowners believe green home ideas are not economically viable. Yet others feel energy efficient home ideas are time and effort-intensive. 

But green ideas for home, if implemented, can help you save as much as $200 in monthly maintenance costs. Green renovations can also increase the resale value of your home in the long run. 

So, make that transition with energy efficient home improvements. 

Green Home Improvements: Where to Start?

Building a sustainable home that saves you money involves assessing your energy consumption. Implementing energy efficient home ideas is the most critical factor in going green. Let’s consider what you need to do to get a green home remodeling project going.

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Invest in Renewable Energy and Go Solar

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You might argue that going solar isn’t the most low-cost solution among other eco- friendly ideas for home. It isn’t.

Solar installations don’t come cheap. A typical 6 kW solar PV system installation that powers a 1500 square-foot home will set you off by $16,500 on average. But that’s a one-time investment.

When thinking of a green home, solar panels are among the top energy saving home improvements worth considering. Getting a solar system installation will reduce your overall energy dependence on the utility grid and, consequently, your reliance on non-renewable energy.

Are solar panels good for the environment? Absolutely yes, and they help improve your carbon footprint. Moreover, when paired with solar battery storage, solar panels during power outage will ensure your solar system generates electricity even when the grid is out.  

You not only save on your electricity bills, but if you sign up for your local NEM program, you can earn energy credits. Don’t forget about the US Federal government’s revamped solar tax credit program. Brought into effect to incentivize solar adoption, the program can help you earn back a part of your initial investment.  

But the benefits don’t end there.

Going solar is a win-win situation!

So, what are the benefits of solar power? It makes you energy independent, besides bringing about energy efficiency. And the production cost is nil.  So you are not heavily reliant on electric utility companies for your energy needs.

If you’re considering energy saving home improvements, turn to solar and wind energy.

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Upgrade to Energy-efficient Home Appliances

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Solar panel installation is an excellent strategy for green home renovation. But it’s not enough to make your house completely energy efficient. Upgrading your daily-use home appliances can supplement your energy savings.

Home appliances may not even be on your radar when thinking of green renovations. But according to The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), home appliances like heaters, geysers, ACs, etc., contribute to half the energy consumption in US households.

So consider investing in the following appliances for energy efficient home improvements.

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Energy Star-rated Appliances

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The US Environmental Protection Agency runs the Energy Star Program in collaboration with the US Department of Energy. The program outlines rules to determine whether residential appliances are energy efficient.

For example, a refrigerator that is Energy Star-rated is 15% more energy efficient than standard models.

Purchasing Energy Star-stamped appliances lead to lesser energy consumption and  guaranteed savings.

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Tankless Water Heaters

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As the name suggests, tankless water heaters do not store water in tanks. Instead, you get heated water only when you need it. Because there’s no storage tank, there’s no associated standby heat and energy loss. Tankless water heaters are, therefore, an eco-friendly alternative to conventional models.

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Low-flow Taps and Bathroom Fittings

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Energy efficiency comes from not consuming more than you need. Low-flow taps are a case in point. By controlling the amount of water that flows through your taps and faucets, these fixtures help you reduce water consumption.

Your heaters and geysers will also consume less energy when they have a controlled flow of water to heat.

Unlike solar panel in home, low-flow fixtures aren’t even that expensive, so it’s among the easier green home improvement ideas you can implement.

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Revamp Your Home Insulation

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Good insulation can save up to 70% of your energy costs. Revamping your roof and windows alone can make your home green and more energy efficient than it is currently.

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Roof Insulation

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Roofs need regular maintenance, irrespective of your sustainability goals. So the next time you plan an inspection, upgrade to eco-friendly insulators. Using sheep’s wool, denim, or thermacorks to insulate your roof may seem counterintuitive, but they work.

And a well-insulated roof prevents leaks and standby heat losses, ultimately saving you money.

However, if you’re not particularly keen on using either of these materials, consider icynene. Icynene is a castor-oil-based foam you can spray to insulate your roofs, ceilings, and walls. Apart from insulating your home, icynene will significantly cut down on noise too. But, you will need to consider an additional ventilation system because icynene can turn your home into a heat chamber in the summer.

Although the initial costs of using icynene are high, its pros outweigh the cons. Consult with your local vendor to know whether icynene is a cost-effective investment for your home.

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Glazed Windows

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Double or triple glazing your windows are an integral part of green home renovations.

The process helps in keeping your house cool during summers and warm during winters.

Since your dependence on home appliances decreases, so does the usage, and therefore the associated costs.

Double or triple glazing uses uPVC as the insulation between the different layers of the glass panes. This low-cost insulator is recyclable and can be used on doors and windows. It is low maintenance and durable too.

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Make Your Home Green

Making the switch to a sustainable lifestyle may seem like a big deal in terms of investment, time, and effort. But the rewards you reap will be way higher.

If you have a budget, implementing eco-friendly ideas for home can be a personal project you undertake. Sure, it will take you time and lots of planning, but it will be worth it in the long run.

At a time when responsible living has become more of a necessity than a choice, you may have to consider such upgrades down the line.

So why not do it now?

And, if you are looking for a solar panel service provider or green home solar power solutions, reach out to AMECO Solar & Roofing.

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