In today’s world, we face large-scale pressures related to the state of our environment. Sadly, with greenhouse gasses and global warming on the rise, the sustainability of our planet is no longer a guarantee.
To address climate change and help avert disaster, everyone must do their part. Luckily, the choices you make in your home can make a difference. Consider adopting a few of these home improvements to reduce your energy consumption and your carbon footprint. By doing your part, you can be part of the solution rather than part of the problem.
Use LED Lights
Installing LED light bulbs rather than the less energy-efficient incandescents is one of the easiest changes you can make to be more environmentally responsible. Not only are LEDs better for the environment, but they are also better for consumers in several ways:
- Produce less heat than incandescents and are, therefore, safer
- Reduce utility bills by requiring much less energy to do their job
- Save you time and money because they last much longer than incandescents
Switch To Solar
Relying on fossil fuels to meet our energy needs amounts to about 75% of the world’s carbon emissions. Clearly, if you can shift your energy consumption to renewable energy instead, you can reduce your carbon footprint.
Specifically, home solar panel installations offer a solution that allows consumers to harness energy from the sun to power their homes. This solar energy can be used to generate heat, run your air conditioner, produce light, heat your water, and provide power to your appliances. In the end, relying on solar energy saves you money, reduces your carbon footprint, and, most importantly, helps the planet.
Utilize Power Strips
Did you know that appliances that are plugged in but not in use can still be an energy drain on your power grid? This not only wastes precious natural resources but also increases the bottom line on your electrical bill.
Unplugging your appliances when they are not in use is one solution. However, it can be inconvenient to do and difficult to remember. Instead, consider getting a smart power strip to do the hard work for you. Smart plugs can automatically turn on and shut off the electrical draw from an appliance so that it only uses energy when being used.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Models
If you are still relying on old home systems and appliances, such as an outdated HVAC system, an old water heater, or an aging clothes dryer, you are probably consuming more energy than necessary. While it may not be in your budget to get rid of everything at once, you can at least make a point of replacing each item with an energy-efficient model when the time comes to replace or upgrade an aging unit. In particular, ENERGY STAR products are a wise choice. Appliances that earn this certification undergo rigorous testing and meet the specified efficiency standards.
Doing your part to protect the planet does not mean adopting a radical lifestyle and depriving yourself of the comforts of life. Rather, be part of the solution by making small changes at home that allow you to live more sustainably. By making deliberate choices about how you power your home and how you use energy, you can reduce your carbon footprint and be part of the solution.
