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.
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 which are not energy efficient and which 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.
5. Upgrade your bathroom plumbing fixtures
For older toilets, sinks or showerheads in your bathroom, upgrading to newer models can help save on your water bill, while also wasting a lot less water. Generally, today’s bathroom fixtures use less water, which is more eco-friendly. Any improvements or upgrades made to your bathroom also can help boost your home’s value.