Smart Upgrades for the Modern Homeowner

Home Ownership

Jan. 1

In recent years, energy-efficiency has truly become a hot topic. Not only is society making great strides to advocate for and protect the planet, but also to reduce our monthly spending on utilities.

As a smart and savvy homeowner, you’re among many who are always looking for new ways to keep energy costs low and affordable. Whether you’re looking to reside in your home, make investments to sell, or have recently purchased a home that’s in dire need of an update, there is always a smart upgrade or two that can be done.

In this article, we take a closer look at six of the best energy-efficient upgrades for the modern homeowner to make. Let’s get started!

Low-Flow Plumbing Fixtures

By switching out the necessary fixtures and hardware, you can greatly reduce your water consumption in the long run.

You may want to consider low-flow options for the following:

Faucets
Toilets
Showerheads

While faucets and showerheads are simple enough that a handy homeowner could switch them out, a low-flow toilet may best be installed by a professional!

Smart Thermostat

Could your current thermostat belong to a museum? It might be time to upgrade with a more modern and energy-efficient option!

With a smart thermostat, not only will you have better control over the temperature of your home, but you will also be provided with the tools and resources to reduce your energy consumption. And, in turn, your energy bill.

Most smart thermostats provide you with the option to schedule your HVAC system remotely, using a smartphone and according to when it’s needed most - effectively allowing you to reduce your energy consumption. Not only that, but they can often also allow you to track your consumption in real time.

So, you can make changes to your habits right away - rather than waiting for the bill to come in the mail.

Energy-Efficient Lighting

Did you know that certain lighting options can contribute to an energy-efficient home? To start saving on your energy costs, visit your local home improvement store and look for lights that are marked as energy efficient.

You’re likely to notice the following benefits almost immediately:

Lower energy costs
Improved light quality
Longer usage and fewer replacements
Reduced maintenance needs

As most homeowners use the lights in their homes daily, this is an easy and effective way to bring down your energy bill and contribute to a more sustainable way of living.

Upgrade and Seal Windows and Doors

You should never overlook the entry points to your home.

Upgrading and properly sealing both windows and doors can absolutely contribute to the energy-efficiency of your home. These areas can act as common entry points for air to escape from your home, and enter from the outside.

When you’re trying to warm your home in the winter and cool it in the summer, this can result in your HVAC system working overtime to properly regulate the temperature within your home.

By installing quality windows and doors, then properly sealing them, you can reduce the risk of poor temperature control - all while keeping pests outdoors and boosting the lifespan of your latest investment!

Plant a Garden

Are you considering growing a garden this spring and summer?

If so, we have great news for you! There are many benefits to growing your own garden, including but not limited to sustainability!

The benefits of growing your own garden can include:

Great tasting food
Reduced costs at the grocery store
Fewer toxins and chemicals
Reduced risk of contamination
Better lawn and soil health
Great use of available outdoor space
Spend more quality time with family
Nutrient-infused fruit, vegetables and herbs
Less food waste

Believe it or not, growing your own garden is a more sustainable option than shopping at the grocery store. Farms use a significant amount of energy, release herbicides and pesticides into the atmosphere and use fossil fuels for transportation.

By growing the food yourself, you can help to reduce the impact that these factors from farming can have on the environment!

Energy-Efficient Appliances

Did you know that most older appliances tend to use quite a bit of energy? That’s why companies in modern years have started to manufacture options that are more sustainable and energy-efficient.

To use less water and energy, consider replacing your older appliances with new technology!