Install Renewable Energy

The most effective way to make your home more sustainable might be to install renewable energy. By installing solar panels, for example, the average home can save between $10,000 and $30,000 over the lifetime of the panels according to EnergySage. This usually more than compensates for the cost of installation. An additional bonus is that adding solar panels to a home increases the average value by about $15,000. So if you're planning to sell your home, while you're considering things like whether or not to use an MLS real estate service, also consider the value that renewable energy might add to your property. 

Perform an Energy Audit

Another smart way to go green is to find energy waste and stop it. An energy audit, or energy assessment, is a room-by-room search for energy waste. These are typically performed by a professional but do-it-yourself energy audits are also effective. Government research has found that stopping air drafts alone can save between 10% and 20% on a home energy budget. Your energy-saving plan is only as good as your knowledge of the problem, so consider an audit soon. 

Rethink Lighting

A large amount of energy waste comes from a very obvious source: lighting. Standard incandescent bulbs are very inefficient, converting only about 10% of the energy they use into visible light. Seek out more energy-efficient options like halogen bulbs, LED lighting, and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs). Each has its benefits and drawbacks, so shop around for the right solution. Another good idea is to increase your use of daylighting. This means using sunlight whenever possible. Research shows it's better for your health and the planet. 

Purchase Efficient Appliances

Appliances consume the overwhelming majority of energy in a home, with heating and cooling systems accounting for around 47%. In most parts of the grid, this translates to a lot of burned fossil fuels. Purchasing energy-efficient appliances is always a good idea. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) started the Energy Star program to keep consumers informed about appliance efficiency. Look for the Energy Star seal on appliances that meet their rigorous efficiency standards. 

Choose Non-Toxic Household Chemicals

When it comes to non-toxic home supply options, this is an age of choice. Many household cleaners especially contain harsh chemicals. Some of them are obvious hazards like ammonia and nitrates. Some are more insidious. The phthalates common to both plastics and scented products can cause endocrine disruption among other negative health effects. Thankfully, a wide range of science-backed alternatives is available to reduce the danger of this stealth threat. 

Incorporate Plant Life

Simply adding houseplants to your home environment can make it more environmentally sound. Plants don't just add oxygen to the atmosphere. A NASA study found that certain plants like the English Ivy can remove carcinogens like formaldehyde from the air. The technical term for this is "biophilic design." This is a movement in architecture that seeks to deepen our connection to nature by incorporating it into the places we live and work. Consider adding some life to your home. Your own life will benefit. 

Making your home more eco-friendly doesn't have to burden your lifestyle. Use these tips as a starting point for exploring options, and start making your home more sustainable today. 

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