Sustainability is an increasingly important aspect of being a homeowner. Reducing your carbon footprint is not only environmentally-conscious, but it can also save you thousands as a homeowner.
Let’s talk about environmental sustainability, why it’s important, and several sustainable updates you can implement in your home this year.
Why Go Green?
“Going green” is another name for prioritizing sustainability in your everyday life. But why is it so important in today’s modern world?
- Conservation: Energy, water, and natural resources are finite, which means if humans fail to conserve these resources, they will run out in the future. Prioritizing sustainability in your home helps to conserve these resources for future generations.
- Cost Savings: Local and government programs often offer incentives for homeowners to make sustainable upgrades in their homes. This means that, in addition to helping the environment, homeowners can save a significant amount of money on utilities over the years.
- Health Benefits: Most sustainable homes have better indoor air quality that leads to improved health and well-being for homeowners. Additionally, sustainable water filtration systems improve water quality compared to traditional tap water.
- Regulatory Compliance: Many states and local jurisdictions are starting to implement sustainability regulations in an effort to conserve natural resources and reduce our carbon footprint. Homeowners may be required to adopt sustainable home upgrades to comply with these regulations.
Top Sustainable Updates for Your Home
Homeowners looking to go green have lots of options. Whether you’re a new homeowner or long-time community resident, implementing sustainable upgrades is a smart choice for a variety of reasons.
Let’s take a look at the top sustainable updates for your home this year.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are starting to become more popular among homeowners in both rural and urban areas for good reason. They harness the natural resource of sunlight and convert it into electricity that reduces our reliance on fossil fuels.
Installing solar panels may come with a hefty upfront cost, but the long-term savings often outweigh the drawbacks. Solar installers typically provide homeowners with a cost-benefit analysis that shows the potential savings and the amount of time needed to stay in the home to break-even on the initial expense.
Energy-Efficient Appliances
Replacing old appliances like washers, dryers, microwaves, and dishwashers with energy-efficient ones uses less electricity that allows homeowners to save money on their utility bills.
They also last longer than outdated appliances since they’re designed for durability, leading to fewer breakdowns and replacements.
LED Lighting
Believe it or not, but old light bulbs and fixtures consume higher amounts of electricity and unknowingly drive up utility bills for many homeowners.
Energy-efficient LED lights last up to 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs and reduce lighting-related energy expenses. Not to mention they’re brighter and provide full brightness instantly when turned on.
The Bottom Line
Sustainable homes and upgrades are one of the most important parts of resource conservation for future generations. Without prioritizing sustainability, we will run out of natural resources and put the future of our planet in jeopardy.
Implementing the three sustainable updates we discussed allows you to do your part in environmental conservation while saving some money in the process.
Are you looking for a real estate agent in Massapequa? The Kim Holland Homes team is the #1 real estate team on Long Island. Contact us or call Kim today at 516-236-6303 to start the process of finding your dream home.
