6 Ways to Create a Cozy Eco-Friendly Home

Investing in an eco-friendly home goes beyond being conscious of the environment. In fact, it can potentially influence your pocketbook too. If you do a little research before building your next home, you can offset large utility bills by choosing energy-efficient options that save you money. Here are five tips for creating an eco-friendly home that is both cozy and sustainable.

1. Invest in Solar Panels

If you live in a sunny climate, you may consider where to buy solar panels as a way of creating an energy-efficient home. While the upfront cost may seem substantial, the results can pay off. Solar panels are not only an excellent investment for your home but can potentially be helpful for your community because, unlike fossil fuels, solar is a clean and renewable energy source that is good for the environment. Additionally, if you produce enough energy, you can sell it to your local utility company as another revenue source.

2. Recycle

Recycling unused materials can save you money when building your home, and it helps the environment too. Simply asking your contractor to recycle materials such as wood, steel and cotton is one way to create a cozy eco-friendly home. It may also be a good idea to research using recycled materials within your home rather than buying new products. Because going green is growing in popularity, many suppliers offer recycled countertops, roofing and doors.

3. Use Smart Devices

Did you know that you can slim down your utility bills by utilizing smart devices? Technology makes creating an eco-friendly home easy. Homes with smart thermostats are more energy efficient because they can control the temperature within your home at all times. Smart light bulbs and sprinkling systems save money and resources by turning off unused energy resources.

4. Save Water

According to Think H2O, on average, over 800 gallons of water is used per week just by flushing the toilet. That’s close to 30% of your home’s water consumption. You can help the environment and save money by opting to purchase low-flow toilets and showerheads. Supplies now even offer slow flow dishwashers and washing machines. Harvesting rainwater is another efficient way of conserving water. When you collect water overflow from off your roof, you can use it to power your plumbing or sprinkler system.

5. Consider Energy Efficient Appliances

Energy star rated appliances run using small amounts of energy, saving you money and helping the community. When purchasing your refrigerator, washing machine or stove, don’t disregard the benefits these low energy appliances can make. Using a tankless water heater is another way to conserve resources and energy. While the initial cost may be more, your heating bill will be significantly smaller every month because it only heats the water when it’s on or running, unlike traditional water heaters that heat gallons of water all at once.

6. Seal Windows and Doors

Green homes are more sustainable because they utilize sealed windows and doors. These homes also have more efficient heating and cooling options and are well insulated. You can also reduce monthly operational costs by choosing finishes, such as efficient lighting and appliances that create a more sustainable, green home.

When you choose to go green, you are also helping save costs and replenish your pocketbook. Creating a cozy and eco-friendly home doesn’t need to be extravagant. You can make your home energy efficient by merely utilizing energy-efficient appliances or choosing recycled materials instead of buying new ones. Building or updating your home to be eco-friendly is not only environmentally friendly but economical too, and over time, your home value will likely increase.