Eco-Friendly Ideas To Improve Your Home
Environmental sustainability is a topic that has gained a lot of traction over the past decade. More people are looking to help sustain and protect the eco-systems around us. Here are some things to consider when planning your next renovation.
Energy Star Products
Energy Star products, such as Energy Star windows, are certified to be the top of their class in energy performance. Having energy efficient products are a great way to reduce the environmental impact of your house. This may seem more expensive at first, but it can greatly reduce the cost of your electrical and heating bills.
Solar Panels
Solar Panels are a great source of renewable energy. Solar panels have become efficient enough that they are profitable depending on where you reside in Canada. If your solar panels are installed correctly, they can supply you with more than 80% of your yearly supply of energy. The government also supplies you with tax breaks, grants and other incentives if you choose to switch to solar panels and make your home more energy efficient.
Rain Storage Tanks or Rain Barrels
Harvesting rain using a rain barrel is great way to cut down on over all water consumption. It will decrease your water bill while also saving some of the water that we pull from the lakes. A rain barrel connects directly to your down spout, and it’s very easy and cheap to install. If you want to go a step further, you could install rain storage tanks to collect the water from your roof and store it in a tank to use in your toilet, sprinkler system, dishwasher, and washing machine.
Energy Efficient Lighting
Installing CFL or LED lights are a great way to conserve energy. They may seem like they cost more up front, but they out last traditional light bulbs and cost less over the lifetime of the house.
Proper Insulation
The highest form of energy consumption for a home is the heating and cooling of the house. A lot of heat escapes from a home that is not properly sealed and insulated. This means that having proper insulation throughout the house can save a home owner a lot of money when it comes to their energy bill.
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