Spring is in the air, bringing with it the impulse to make home renovations.
Are you looking for ways to upgrade your home with the environment in mind, but worried about the expense? Fortunately, many home improvements are not as costly up front as they used to be, and the return on those investments — both in energy savings and your home’s value — is well worth the effort.
Here are five ways to boost your home’s energy-efficiency and make a difference for the planet.
3. Go solar
You’ve heard about solar for years, but now may be the perfect time to switch to renewable energy. Solar energy can help power your home, saving hundreds of dollars in utility bills while also boosting your home’s value and providing peace of mind about helping the environment.
Considering installing solar panels, but don’t know where to start? Now you can figure out what your home needs through a digital “solar concierge,” which can help you explore technology and financing decisions tailored to your situation. The solar concierge program from LG helps you determine whether going solar will meet your objectives and, if it does, how to get your installation fulfilled by a local installer. And remember that not all solar panels are created equal; it’s best to go with high-efficiency panels from a brand you know and trust.
4. Reduce air leaks and check insulation
Sealing air leaks and adding insulation can help increase comfort and energy efficiency, and may provide up to a 10% savings on your annual energy bills, according to the EPA. Pay special attention to preventing air leaks (with simple foam insulation) when installing your window air conditioner for the summer.
Simple fixes include installing weather-stripping on doors and caulking around windows, while bigger jobs include sealing leaks and adding insulation in your attic. Replacing aging windows and doors that are not energy efficient and that may have cracks or leaks will improve your home’s energy efficiency. Another upside? Brand new doors and windows can instantly increase your home’s curb appeal.