These 13 Eco-Savvy Home Upgrades Yield Serious Energy Savings

Many people accept their energy bills as is, no matter the cost. It doesn’t have to be that way, though. You can implement several home upgrades to cut expenses and save money on your energy use.

One of the best parts of having an energy-saving home improvement plan is you can also help the environment. Eco-friendly changes can help regulate and minimize your power consumption, preventing the potential waste of resources in production and distribution.

Lower energy use can also lessen emissions and slow down climate change. Consider these home upgrades a win-win for the planet and your wallet.

1. Renewable Energy Systems

The ultimate way to save energy is to use a renewable source. Luckily, many residential options are available, including the following:

• Solar panels: A residential solar panel system is the most popular option among homeowners, with many people sharing anecdotes of how low their utility bills have become. The amount of solar power your system will harness depends on how much sunlight your property receives throughout the day.
• Residential windmills: While wind turbines have a reputation for taking up space, it is possible to have a smaller windmill power your home. This option can be ideal for off-grid properties with strong wind speeds.
• Geothermal power station: The heat under the Earth can be harvested and converted into electricity, which is considerably better for the environment. Most geothermal power plants are located in western states like California.

Install the appropriate storage system for backup power. For instance, solar power is only available during the day. Rather than putting up with a dark and cold home at night, use a battery to collect excess renewable energy.

Some people adopt a hybrid system when tapping into renewable energy. Installing such inverters can allow your household to connect to an electricity grid while harnessing renewable energy. While this upgrade doesn’t keep your home entirely dependent on green power, it can significantly reduce your monthly utility bill.

2. Automated Thermostats

Utilize automated thermostats to program your HVAC units’ settings. Homeowners face unpredictable weather due to the influence of climate change. It can be cold one day and warm up the next. These shifts in temperature can even occur in a couple of hours. 

Having the heater on when it’s hot wastes energy just as much as the air conditioner in winter. These actions rack up your utility bill. Programming automatic changes to the heating and cooling systems will ensure optimal temperature control and a comfortable home.

3. Smart Lights and Systems

The same people guilty of never changing the thermostat may also be those who keep the lights on after leaving a room. Combat that forgetfulness by installing smart lights. You get bonus points if they’re LED since they’re more energy-efficient.

Aside from automating turning the lights on and off, you can look at other systems that can adapt the same way. For instance, enable smart control rather than having the air purifier on all night. Program a time on and off period.

4. Tankless Water Heater

Some people can’t start the day without a nice shower, and it’s best to get a tankless or demand-type water heater to save energy. This system only creates and distributes hot water at the exact time it’s needed.

Some homeowners may think all water heaters operate how tankless options do, but they don’t. Tankless water heaters are up to 34% more energy-efficient than conventional methods in homes that use 41 gallons or less daily.

5. Roof Replacements 

Many modern energy-efficient roofing options are available on the market. For instance, metal roofs can help dispel unwanted heat from the home, compared to options that absorb the warmth.

Material aside, invest in roof replacements as a repair option. Housetops are vulnerable to air leaks and water damage as they age. These factors can cost you more on your energy bill, so it’s imperative to upgrade.

6. Weatherstripping

Roofs aren’t the only parts of the home vulnerable to leaks. The sides of the door and corners where pests might have chewed through can cause air leaks. HVAC units work double-time if the air keeps escaping, which isn’t ideal for your energy efficiency.

Apply weatherstrips to seal these openings. Weatherstripping can provide energy savings while keeping your home warm and cozy. Plus, it offers a nice sense of security when it’s rainy outdoors.

7. Triple-Pane Windows

Windows are ideal for ventilation, but keep them secure. Triple-pane windows thicken the divide between the outside world and your home. The structure is characterized by two frames, two coated glass panes and argon gas insulation. All these features improve your home’s insulation.

8. Insulated Garage Door

An insulated garage door can protect more than just your car. The garage has less protection from outdoor elements, and exterior air slips in every time the door is opened.

Outside temperatures can affect your property’s energy bill, so add a sturdy garage door with extra insulation. Consider multiple layers for maximum energy efficiency. A triple-layer door has a thicker layer of insulation than a single or double-layer model.

9. Radiant Floor Heating

Some homeowners crank up the heater when it’s cold outside, which forces the unit to work overtime and increases energy consumption. Consider installing radiant floor heating while keeping your HVAC intact. This system is better than a fireplace or boiler since you don’t have to burn fuels to generate heat.

10. Energy Star-Certified Appliances

Don’t put up with home appliances from a few decades ago. Upgrade to more energy-efficient varieties. The U.S. government’s Energy Star program provides energy-efficiency ratings so the average homeowner can identify models that are better for the environment and their utility bills.

For instance, Energy Star-certified clothes washers utilize 20% less power than other models. Look for the logo and rating on other appliances like dryers, dishwashers, refrigerators, microwaves and air cleaners.

11. Steel Entry Doors

Is it time to install a new front door? A dark steel entry door can be quite a sleek addition to welcome guests while insulating the home. If the industrialist appearance doesn’t appeal to you, environmentally-conscious homeowners also covet fiberglass doors.

12. Basket Bags

Basket bags are a great addition to the home since you can use them for storage and laundry. You can use them instead of plastic at the grocery or department store since plastic bag production uses so much energy. Make the switch and bring your bags from home.

12. Living Walls

Imagine having a vertical wall full of greenery in your room. Living walls are a fantastic way to make your home more eco-friendly and energy-saving. Their presence reduces overall energy use by mitigating heat loss. They can also regulate humidity, which minimizes moisture and prevents possible mold growth. 

Gain Energy Savings

Upgrading your home will take time, money and effort. However, the energy you save will pay for these investments in due time and reduce your bills. Plus, you get to do your part in helping the environment, which is truly a comforting feeling.