As the world becomes increasingly aware of sustainable living, individuals and households are taking conscious steps to reduce their environmental footprint.

One of the areas where we can make a significant impact is within our own homes. This blog post will provide valuable insights into creating a greener home for you.

Eco-friendly Practices

1. Switch to energy-efficient lighting

One example of energy-efficient lighting is LED lighting. LEDs have revolutionized the lighting industry due to their remarkable energy efficiency.

Also, LED bulbs use 80% less energy and last longer than incandescent bulbs.

2. Water conservation

Water scarcity is a growing concern worldwide. In response, homeowners are adopting water-saving techniques. Such as: 

• • • Low-flow toilets

Traditional toilets typically use around 3.5 to 7 gallons of water per flush, whereas low-flow toilets aim to use 1.6 gallons or less.

• • • Low-flow shower heads

Standard modern shower heads typically have a flow rate of around 2.5 gallons per minute. In contrast, low-flow shower heads have a flow rate of 2.0 gallons per minute or less, with some models achieving rates as low as 1.5 gallons per minute.

• • • Water-saving faucets

The standard faucet typically has flow rates of 2.2 gallons per minute or higher, while low-flow faucets aim for flow rates of 1.5 gallons per minute or less.

• • • Rainwater harvesting systems

This allows homeowners to collect and reuse rainwater for non-potable purposes such as gardening and cleaning.

3. Install solar panels

Solar panels offer a renewable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution to meet our energy needs while reducing our carbon footprint.

• • • How do they work?

Energy.gov: Solar radiation is light – also known as electromagnetic radiation – that is emitted by the sun. While every location on Earth receives some sunlight over a year, the amount of solar radiation that reaches any one spot on the Earth’s surface varies. Solar technologies capture this radiation and turn it into useful forms of energy.

• • • Will it increase the value of my home?

Zillow: Nationally, homes with solar-energy systems sold for 4.1% more on average than comparable homes without solar power. For the median-valued home, that translates to an additional $9,274.

One reason houses with solar-energy systems sell for more than those without them is that they can provide substantial future energy cost savings.

For homeowners who know they consume a lot of power, these future savings are worth spending a bit more money upfront.

4. Smart home integration

Smart home technologies are integrated into eco-friendly real estate to optimize energy consumption. These technologies enable homeowners to monitor and control energy usage, heating and cooling systems, lighting, and appliances remotely.

In addition, by connecting your home with smart devices, you can reduce your household energy usage by as much as 30%.

The Value of Energy Efficiency

NAR, Majority of Agents, Brokers Find Value in Promoting Energy Efficiency in Listings, A majority (63%) of agents and brokers said promoting energy efficiency in listings is very or somewhat valuable, according to a new report from the National Association of Realtors®.

“While each area of the country has a unique climate and community resources, Realtors® are finding the need to embrace their clients’ sustainability interests,” said Jessica Lautz, NAR deputy chief economist and vice president of research.

“Buyers often seek homes that either lessen their environmental footprint or reduce their monthly energy costs. There is value in promoting green features and energy information to future home buyers.”

in Conclusion

The concept of sustainable living has evolved, leading to the rise of greener homes. By embracing these trends and making sustainable choices, we can collectively make a significant impact on preserving our planet’s resources and creating a more sustainable future.

If you’re interested in more sustainability content, check out PISE in Paradise, which discusses a green building method and its environmental benefits.

Lastly, let us all take the necessary steps toward a greener tomorrow.