9 Ways to Create a Sustainable Home
Implementing earth-friendly solutions in your home may sound like an expensive and inconvenient effort. However, creating a sustainable home can lead to hefty future cost savings, and is more realistic than you may think. If you’re interested in creating a sustainable home, here are 10 ideas that may inspire you to kickstart the process.
#1
Use Energy-Efficient Air-Conditioning
Energy efficient air-conditioners lower your carbon footprint, your energy use, and your monthly bill! Consider either a split system or packaged central air-conditioning system that uses ducts.
#2
Install a Smart Thermostat
Scheduling your energy intake based on high or low usage points in the day can drastically impact energy efficiency in your home. With WiFi and phone apps, monitoring and changing the climate of your home is as easy and convenient as ever.
#3
Consider Air Sealing
Air sealing regulates temperature throughout the home, and reduces energy consumption by making climate control efforts more efficient.
#4
Use Energy Efficient Kitchen Appliances
Energy Star certified appliances use 10% - 50% less energy than conventional appliances. Dishwashers, refrigerators, washers, dryers, furnaces, boilers, office equipment, and electronics are examples of Energy Star certified appliances.
#5
Choose Eco-Paints & Wallpapers
Eco-paints emit fewer toxins and have low levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), thereby reducing indoor pollution. If opting for wallpaper, eco-friendly options readily exist on the market.
#6
Switch to LED Bulbs
Switch from fluorescent to LED light bulbs. LED’s decrease electricity consumption, use up to 90% less energy, and last about two to four times longer than many conventional bulbs.
#7
Buy Sustainable Mattresses
Invest in a sustainable mattress that does not contain VOCs - and remember to donate your old mattress to someone who could use it!
#8
Invest in Solar Panels
Solar panels provide pure and clean energy directly from the sun, and decrease the use of fossil fuels. While it may take some time to realize your savings, it is arguably the most proven way to reduce your energy use at home.
#9
Consider Composting
Composting aids in mitigating the impact of climate change by diminishing greenhouse gas emissions resulting from food waste. It is estimated that food loss and waste contribute to approximately 8-10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and the usage of land and water resources further exerts pressure on biodiversity.
From your Boca Raton Luxury Real Estate Experts, The Koolik Group at Compass Boca
Interested in finding a sustainable home in South Florida? Contact us today to discuss your options!