As you build your new home, there are so many decisions you need to make. Location, style, materials…etc. But have you thought of ways you can save money as well as your environment? Adding Green elements can benefit you and your future in so many ways. You can add green materials and products that will help you gain lower energy costs and make the house more viable when it’s time to sell in the future if you wish.
There are a few ways you can green your new home. If you fear adding green features may seem a little costly, the green features will save you money in the long run with lower energy bills. Also, you will be a factor in energy and water savings and preservation.
Energy Savings #1:
One way to start with saving energy is to install programmable thermostats. With the high cost of energy, controlling your heat and cold air can cut your bill dramatically. You can save up to 3 to 5 % for every degree you set your thermostat below 68 degrees during the cold weather and above 78 degrees during warmer weather.
Your heating and cooling system will only turn on when it reaches the chosen temperature in your house. No more trying to remember to adjust your thermostat; it will do it for you. You can even purchase a 7-day model that allows for a distinctive program each day of the week.
Energy Savings #2:
Better lighting will equal better savings! The more you initiate light into a room can have a huge impact on the atmosphere. The use of skylights, bay windows, and reflective surfaces like mirrors can affect your favorite rooms. Mirrors can spring backlight around giving the presence of natural light within a space.
Also, adding LED and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) offers amazing energy and cost-cutters over regular incandescent bulbs. Though they might cost more upfront, they generate less heat, use less energy and last considerably longer than conventional light bulbs, so they’re ideal green lighting options for your new home.
Energy Savings #3:
Conserving water and cutting down on your water bill costs is another way to save money and the environment. This can include changing your faucets, showerheads, and toilets. Toilets can actually use 26% of the water in your home. If you are updating or building a home, you would see significant savings compared to older toilets that use as much as 3.5 gpf. Also, you can install Water closets that are coded at 1.5 gallons per flush. Use two level flush systems. One for liquid waste uses less than a gallon, and one for solid waste. Try a Bidet, a very hygienic plumbing fixture that replaces the need for a daily shower.
Other great ideas suggested by Plumbtile.com are:
- Washlet toilet seats
- Waterless urinals
- Sensor faucets for residential use are a smart idea, especially for children
- Tankless water heaters are quick, clean, and saves water
- Panasonic fans are very energy efficient.
- Low flow/High-pressure faucets and showerheads limit water use.
Try these products today and save money while reducing your water and energy use!
Energy Savings #4:
Are you looking to customize your home with your own flavor as well as make it “green”? You don’t have to negotiate your tastes to be in the environmental movement. Stunning and elegant flooring and countertop alternatives can be chosen. Don’t forget there are eco-friendly flooring options you can choose from.
Hardwood Floors: Many homeowners love the look of hardwood floors. There are many types of wood that are produced and made with non-toxic adhesives and finishes. FSC-certified wood flooring comes in hundreds of different hues and styles. Choose from FSC maple, oak, walnut, cherry, pecan, exotics, and more.
Cork: Cork is a new and upcoming choice for many reasons. Cork flooring is non-toxic, hypo-allergenic, moisture-resistant, thermal insulated, and made from renewable sources. Cork comes in floating planks or glue-down tiles. Cork flooring is created using the bark of the cork oak tree, which refurbishes itself every three years.
Bamboo: Bamboo, is a popular green flooring option. Bamboo lasts longer and can hold out more useful than standard hardwood floors. The floors are naturally resistant to water, mildew, and insects, and they are sustainable since bamboo grows quickly and lavishly. Eco-friendly, durable, and affordable, bamboo is a great choice. Bamboo can be engineered; strand-woven, hand-scraped, or dyed; nail, glue, or floating installation.
Energy Savings #5:
For countertops, you could go with recycled glass surfaces. Recycled glass tiles can come in a variety of colors and will brighten any kitchen or bathroom. Compared to granite, it is a much more sustainable option for around the same price point. Tile made from recycled glass is eco-friendly and stunning. They come in a variety of sizes and colors glass tile. Glass tiles also come with natural stone mixed in. The mixture of color and textures create an elaborate look to any countertop or backsplash.
Whether you are remodeling or building your home from scratch, it is an exciting project. It is also the time you can incorporate the many ways you can “go green”, save your environment, and have environmentally safe products in your living area.
For more great “green” materials and tips, visit Plumbtile.com.