By now, we think we can all agree it’s important and valuable for everybody to run an energy efficient home. However, we also know that knowing we should and having one are two completely different things. So, isn’t it time we start transitioning to a greener home?
First, let’s review the benefits to making the change!
An energy efficient home can:
• Save us money on our utility bills
• Increase property value
• Increase quality of life
• Protect the environment
• Remain more stable in blackouts and natural disasters
Those sound like pretty good reasons to get started, but you may be asking yourself: what changes do Ineed to make exactly, and where do I even begin?
Well, we’re glad you asked! There are many ways you can create a greener, more energy efficient home, and honestly, it doesn’t matter where you start as long you’re making progress. Nevertheless, we know it
can be overwhelming, and that is why we have put together a list of changes you can make to get you started today!
Your Guide To A Greener Home
Change The Lighting
Switching from traditional bulbs to LED lighting can decrease the amount of energy expended from
lighting by up to 75%. In addition to being great for the planet and lowering your utility bill, LEDs also
last longer, which means less money spent on replacements!
Install Ceiling Fans
Installing a ceiling fan and using it on warmer days will use considerably less energy than an air conditioning unit. Plus, using it when the heat is on can help circulate the warm air from the heaters requiring less heat to be used! Ceiling fans come in all sorts of styles, so have fun with this one and get one that will enhance your homes decor to your liking!
Invest In A Tankless Water Heater
Never heard of them? They’re great! Demand-type water heaters (tankless or instantaneous) provide hot water only as needed. They don’t produce the standby energy losses associated with traditional storage water heaters, which will save on energy costs. Tankless water heaters heat water directly without the use of a storage tank. When a hot water tap is turned on, cold water travels through a pipe into the unit. A gas burner or an electric element then heats the water. As a result, demand water heaters deliver a constant supply of hot water. No more cold showers for you!
Look For The Energy Star Logo
If you can, try and replace all your appliances with energy star models. Think larger appliances such as fridges, stoves, washers, and dryers and smaller appliances like blenders, toasters, and microwaves. Even your television can – and should – be energy star.
Remember, whether you start with small changes such as lighting and fans, or big changes like fridges
and stoves, you are making a HUGE difference. Start where you can, work your way up, and never stop
learning what you can do for your planet!
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