Upgrading your home with green technology is a great way to save energy and make your home more comfortable and efficient. An energy audit is the best way to determine the specific changes you need to make your home energy efficient. Kitchens outfitted with energy-efficient refrigerators and ovens can go a huge way in saving money. A simple evaluation, often used with an infrared camera, will identify areas that need upgrading.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are a good way to make your home more energy efficient and it also adds to your home’s value. The panels absorb the sun’s energy to generate electricity in the home. According to the Department of Energy, there have been over $1 million installations nationwide. Solar panels are estimated to add about $15,000 value to your home.
Connected Thermostats
Connected thermostats allow the homeowner to monitor and control the heating and cooling from a remote location. With heating and cooling bills on the rise, upgraded thermostats have the potential to save an enormous amount of money on heating and cooling bills. About 12% of new homes have connected thermostats in the design.
Energy Efficient Windows
Of all of the green home improvement products, windows stand out as the most requested. Energy efficient windows are being included in 95 percent of the new structures. Windows are also a cost-effective way of keeping your home comfortable year-round. The windows prevent leakage so cold air cannot escape in summer and warm air cannot escape in winter. Some companies, like Green Bin, know that before the job gets started, installers should already have a rental dumpster on hand. This is the most efficient way to dispose of the old windows.
LED Lighting
More and more people are utilizing LED light bulbs. These bulbs are long-lasting and use 75% less energy than regular bulbs. Theoretically, the bulbs installed in your infant’s room could still be working by the time they graduate. LED bulbs are not expensive. They only cost slightly more than regular bulbs. Another good thing about LED bulbs is that unlike regular bulbs that emit 90 percent heat, LED bulbs give off very little heat.
There are a number of technologies that can be used to make your home more energy efficient. The upgrades won’t break the bank. In fact, it could increase your home’s value. If you are serious about making your home green, efficient and low on energy costs, consider green technology upgrades.
