Sustainable Home Remodeling Projects that Save

Most of us know that turning down the thermostat a few degrees, installing a low-flow showerhead and LED light bulbs can save energy and decrease energy bills. Some of us have even considered smart thermostats and solar strategies in an effort to green our homes. The good news is that you don’t have to build a home from scratch to reap the benefits of a sustainable home. But, when it comes time to refresh your space with eco-friendly home remodeling projects, you probably want to know where to begin and which ones will save the most in the long run.

Here are six environmentally savvy ways to renovate your home and slash electricity costs in the process.

1. Maximize the Livable Space

For many, the thought of a home remodeling project means an expansion to satisfy changing (and growing) circumstances. But, before you lay out the plans to add another room and dive into a massive home remodeling project, re-evaluate how you can improve the livability of your current space.

Do you really need to build out extra space? Could you declutter and rearrange to find the extra space you need? If you can get away without extra square footage, that’s less space to heat and cool year-round.

2. LED by Example

One of the simplest ways to save money is by switching from a standard incandescent bulb to LED lights. An ENERGY STAR LED light lasts 35 to 50 times longer than traditional bulbs. They also produce little heat, and use at least 75% less energy than incandescent lighting.

While we’re on the topic of ENERGY STAR, consider upgrading older (inefficient) appliances, like the refrigerator, dishwasher and oven, with one that has this energy-efficient rating.

3. Fill in the Cracks

It’s estimated that 50% of homes in the United States have inadequate insulation. Get a handle on the inefficiencies and schedule a professional energy audit. This will give you an idea of areas in your home that could be leaking valuable energy (and dollars). The attic and garage tend to be prime suspects.

Other energy-guzzling culprits include old windows and cracks around window and door frames. Caulking and weatherstripping are two simple and effective air-sealing techniques that offer quick returns on investment, often one year or less.

4. Be Water-Wise

According to the EPA, a family of four can save approximately 20,000 gallons of water each year by simply replacing standard shower heads and faucet heads to low-flow faucets.

Other simple water saving home improvements include fixing leaky faucets and replacing a standard toilet with an energy efficient one. As water becomes an increasingly scarce resource, low-flow toilets are becoming more popular. They are actually required in some states, including California, Colorado, Georgia and Texas.

5. Liven Things Up with Low VOC Products

Low- or no-VOC paints, cabinets, insulation, countertops and flooring are not only earth-friendly, but they’re safer for you and your family as well. According to the EPA, VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, “include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short- and long-term adverse health effects.” You can determine the actual VOC content on the label or the product’s technical data sheet.

6. Let the Sun Shine

The sun is a very powerful and renewable source of energy; use it to your advantage! Your solar power system will help the environment and help you save on your electricity bills, too!

But if you’re not ready to invest in a home solar system just yet, consider passive solar energy designs that optimize the use of the sun’s energy, heat and light. By strategically manipulating windows, walls and floors, it’s possible to collect, store and distribute solar heat during the winter and block the solar heat in the summer months.

DIY Home Remodeling

Starting an eco-friendly home remodeling project doesn’t have to be difficult. Take your property to the next level with these six simple DIY tips and quickly enjoy a healthier, greener lifestyle.