Home renovations can be so exciting. They're your chance to breathe new life into your old space. A way to truly make it yours. Maybe your family is growing and you need more room, or maybe you're updating an older home and want to make sure you make the best choices along the way. Often times during renovations, purchasing new home appliances is part of the process. With so many options available, it's easy to become overwhelmed. One way to ensure the renovation is done right is to make eco-friendly appliances part of the plan. And these days, being environmentally conscious isn't just a trend... it's a responsibility. Keep reading for 3 ways you can upgrade your appliances while being kind to the environment. 

1.) Start at the Source

When you think of something that's used in your household for a myriad of different things, what comes to mind? It's water! From bathing to cooking to cleaning, it's got you covered. The question is... is your water coming out of the tap in the best shape possible? Do you find hard mineral staining on clothing, sinks or toilets? Do you get frustrated when your powdered detergent doesn't dissolve in the washing machine, resulting in you using more soap and running another cycle in hopes that it will the next time around? Maybe you've noticed corrosion in certain appliances, leading to costly replacements or repairs. What's the culprit? Hard water. Luckily, treating it is possible. Installing a home water softener system will not only save you money on household products, but it can help prevent damage to appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines as well. In addition you'll enjoy all the benefits of softer water — think silkier hair, softer skin and better tasting water. 

2.) Look for the Energy Star Label

When you begin your search for new appliances, particularly the main players — refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines and dryers — you'll want to skip right over any that don't have the Energy Star label. If you're wondering why, here are two of the main reasons. They'll use remarkably less energy and water than other models. And since these appliances are used either constantly or on a daily basis, this is your chance to cut down on your home's carbon footprint while also saving money. And there's something to be said for the convenience of the label as well... it breaks down the projected energy use for the appliance it's on. This saves you the time you might have spent shopping around and comparing, while also giving you the information you need to make an informed decision.  

3.) Be Practical

Appliances today are very attractive. They've come a long way from the avocado green or stark white of yesteryear — and in addition to their functionality, they've become staples in the overall decor of a home. This is where you'll need to be strong (and practical!). When you're shopping, know what you're shopping for. If you've got a large family, you'll want to find high capacity appliances to accommodate your food or laundry needs. But if you're a couple of empty nesters who travel a lot, chances are you won't need that massive refrigerator. The larger (or older) the appliance, the more energy and resources it will consume. So be objective and make sure whatever you purchase suits your needs. It will be well worth it. 

Whatever you can do to make your home more eco-friendly will go a long way... and every day new ways to do this are discovered. One step at a time!