Living in a sustainable way has become increasingly important. Just like how we take care of our homes, we should be doing our best to take care of Planet Earth. It can feel overwhelming at times but did you know there are several things you can do at home to make it more eco-friendly besides installing solar panels? Here are 7 small changes you can make that will make your home eco-friendlier.
Reuse, reduce, recycle
The Three Rs – reduce, reuse, recycle, is a simple but effective mantra for sustainable living. Simply put, reduce the amount of trash you create, reuse items as much as possible before replacing them, and recycle whenever possible. These will reduce the amount of trash that finds its way to our local landfills and is better for the environment.
Swap in LED light bulbs
Switching out traditional light bulbs for energy-efficient bulbs is a quick and inexpensive change. Not only will you be using less energy (energy-efficient bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last much longer than traditional light bulbs) but you’ll also save money on your electricity bill and replacement costs.
Use a programmable thermostat
Dropping your home’s temperature by a few degrees can save you money on your energy bills but remembering to change the temperature before you leave or go to bed can be difficult. Make it easier by using a programmable thermostat to monitor and adjust your heating and cooling systems. Create a schedule so the thermostat can adjust to a specific temperature at different times during the day.
Get window treatments
Curtains and blinds are a low-tech way to maintain the temperature in your home. Window treatments can keep the heat outside and cool air in, keeping your home more comfortable.
Opt for cold water washes
The washing machine uses a lot of energy, most of which goes towards heating water. Save some energy by washing your laundry in cold water. Not only is washing in cold water more eco-friendly, but it’ll also keep your clothes in better condition for longer. Hot water can weaken the fabric and fade the color. If you’re dealing with stubborn stains, warm water is a good alternative.
Unplug “electrical vampires”
Sometimes turning off unused electronics isn’t enough. Even though something may be ‘off,’ it’s still drawing energy from the outlet. Instead, unplug appliances and electronics when they’re not in use.
Use non-toxic cleaning products
Using “green” or making your own natural cleaning products reduces the number of harmful chemicals that can find their way into the environment. Look for products that use nontoxic chemicals (or make your own) and come in biodegradable packaging.
Remember: an eco-friendly home starts with you. It may feel overwhelming at times but even small changes like these add up to make a big impact.
Did you know new homes are more energy-efficient than resale? Visit us online at DiscoveryHomes.com to learn more about our new home communities in the San Francisco Bay Area. We look forward to helping you find the right home for your family.