If you’re interested in going green, one of the most important ways you can make good on your commitment is by making eco-friendly upgrades to your home. Whether you start in the backyard or inside, your choice to go green will improve the future of the environment. Need some extra motivation to take the plunge? We’ve got you covered with our top 5 reasons to make green upgrades to your living space, and how you can go about it.
Help the Environment
Going green isn’t just a trend, it’s a way to make a genuine difference. It’s no secret that human energy consumption is contributing to disastrous problems for the environment. However, making the choice and taking the initiative to make your house green is a big step in the right direction. Here are just a few ways going green can help the environment:
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Conserve natural resources
- Promote clean air
- Help prevent climate change
- Preserve habitats and biodiversity
The list goes on and on. But one thing is for sure, going green will make a lasting impact on the environment.
It’s Affordable
While you might be discouraged to make energy efficient upgrades to your home because of the cost, it’s not as far out of your financial reach as you might think. Before you write off the possibility of making your home more green, looking into home improvement financing.
Many of these programs are quick and easy to qualify for and allow you to defer payments for up to a year, which gives you time to save while you get started on making your energy-efficient renovations.
Your Own Happiness
When we do good, we feel good. Living in a home that’s helping protect the environment is something that you can be proud of. Every day that you use less energy and create less waste is making a difference in the world. And, it’s a great opportunity to teach the value of leading and environmentally conscious lifestyle to your children. From consuming less water in the shower to burning through less energy, you will be able to enjoy your renovated home to the fullest without feeling guilty.
Save Money on Bills
Energy efficient upgrades can be kind to your monthly budget too. If you’re using less electricity to heat and cool your home, creating less water waste, and using less power to run your home in general, you’ll see that reflected on your bills. This can be an especially big savings if you find yourself dreading the bill come summer or winter. While you might really need to amp up heating and cooling now, you’ll see that your home’s temperature can be kept under much better control with a few green upgrades.
Increase the Resale Value of You Home
As homebuyers become more environmentally conscious, they are going to be looking for homes that fit the bill rather than having to make the upgrades on their own. If you’re planning to sell your home in the future, you’ll likely have an easier time getting it off the market quickly if it’s modernized with energy efficient appliances and upgrades. If you’re one of the few homes in the area that’s made these environmentally friendly changes, you’ll be in a more competitive position, meaning you can probably resell your home for more.
Get Started on Your Eco-Friendly Home Upgrades
Need some ideas of where to start, here are a few of today’s most popular eco-friendly upgrades:
- Install solar panels
- Replace your toilets with energy efficient models
- Change out your exterior doors
- Insulate your home
- Replace your water heater
- Upgrade your HVAC system
- Replace your room
- Install double-pane windows
- Purchase appliances that use less electricity
No matter how big or small your budget, there are eco-friendly changes you can make to your home to help the environment, your wallet, and your quality of life.
If you’re looking for more ways to go green try starting an in-home recycling program, focusing on reducing food waste, and only buying reusable containers and baggies. You can also encourage your friends and family to do the same, or start a neighborhood-wide green initiative—the opportunities are endless. Remember, every small change in your household helps the planet, so why not start today?