3 Green Living Changes You Can Make To Your Home
Going green is not as complicated as many people believe. Small changes in and around your home can not only be beneficial to the environment, but it can also lower your energy bills. Here are some ways you can make a move towards green living.
Install Solar Energy Panels
Solar panels can help you get off the grid by harnessing solar energy and turning it into usable power for your home. Depending on the sun exposure available, your panels can be installed on your rooftop or in the yard.
You do not have to opt for professional installation of the solar panels. There are solar energy kits that are designed for do-it-yourselfers. You can even get a portable kit that you can use on the road that includes an inverter and a solar battery.
Upgrade Your Home's Insulation
The insulation is responsible for preventing air leakage in your attic, walls, windows, and ducts. Poor quality insulation does not always provide the leakage protection needed, which can result in your heating and cooling system being used more.
To cut down on energy bills, upgrade the insulation in your home. Look for insulation that has a high R-value rating. The R-value refers to the insulation's thermal resistance. A higher value means better insulation. If changing out the insulation in the walls is not an option, at least upgrade the attic's insulation.
Update Your Plumbing
Another way to save on energy costs and your water bills is to install low-flow fixtures throughout the home. The fixtures are affordable and help to reduce the amount of water dispensed during use.
For an added measure, check the aerators on your faucets. The aerators help to reduce the flow of the water. At the same time, it reduces the amount of hot water that is needed because the amount dispensed is decreased.
If you currently use an electric or gas water heater, consider installing a tankless water heater. The water heater helps to conserve on energy use because it heats water as it is filtered through the system instead of storing it in a tank. When water is stored in a tank, it has to be heated, which means constant use of the gas or electricity.
Consult with green living experts for more information on ways to conserve on energy usage. There are many other small changes that you and your family can make to your home to save on energy costs.