As climate change becomes more dire, people are searching for ways to reduce their overall impact and help restore the environment. By finding ways to become more eco-friendly, you contribute to a more sustainable world. If you’re looking for ways to contribute to the green movement, why not start with your home. Here are six ways to make your home more eco-friendly.

Reduce Your Water Use

When it comes to going green, many people tend to focus on energy. While reducing energy is an important factor for a greener life, other factors contribute as well. One other major factor for a greener life is reducing your water use. If you have leaks, be sure to fix them. Even slow drips in your faucets should be fixed. Shut off the water when you’re brushing your teeth or shaving. You can also install low-flow showerheads and toilets to help reduce water consumption.

Change Your Thermostat

If you’re still living with a dial-style thermostat, now may be an ideal time to switch to a programmable model. Rather than constantly having to alter the temperature every evening before bed, before you go off to work, or when you come home, you can set a schedule. This helps you to reduce your energy use without having to constantly remember to change the temperature manually. You can even go one step further and install a smart thermostat. These thermostats connect to your mobile devices, allowing you to change the temperature no matter where you are.

Compost Food Scraps

Food waste that goes into the trash can ends up in landfills. Here, it creates methane, a greenhouse gas. Instead of letting food scraps go to waste, why not put them to good use by creating a compost pile? You can use your compost in your garden to provide flowers, fruits, and vegetables with vital nutrients. Another option to consider is to see if your area offers a program that allows you to collect compost and set it out on the curb for pickup, not unlike your trash and recyclables.

Insulate Your Home

Your HVAC system works to keep your home at a consistent, comfortable temperature, no matter what the weather outside. If your insulation is insufficient, however, the heat or cool air can escape. As a result, your HVAC has to work harder to maintain a consistent temperature, which wastes energy.

Rather than waste energy, ensure that your home is properly insulated. You have several options – blown-in, rolled, and spray. You can do the insulation yourself to save some money, or have it done by a professional installer.

Consider Alternative Energy Sources

Today, many homeowners are making the switch from traditional energy to eco-friendly alternatives. Solar has grown significantly in popularity, and with good reason. The sun is free and the energy is completely renewable. If the solar panels installed on your home capture and create enough energy, you won’t have to rely on traditional energy at all. By searching for “solar installers near me,” you should find several companies that can help your home set up.

Replace Old Appliances

Old appliances like dishwashers, ovens, and refrigerators often waste a lot of energy. Older, inefficient washing machines waste energy AND water. If your appliances are old, you may want to consider replacing them for newer, more energy-efficient models. While replacing your appliances can be an expensive investment (especially if you replace them all at the same time), they do pay for themselves over time. By using less energy and water, your new appliances can save you a significant amount of money each year. You’ll recoup the costs and continue to save as time goes on.

Even the smallest eco-friendly changes to your home have an impact. If you’re just starting out on your green mission, start with a few changes and gradually integrate more. Not only will incorporating eco-friendly practices into your lifestyle help the environment, but you’ll also save money at the same time!