Tips on Greener Home Remodeling.

Introduction:

With more homeowners becoming more environmentally conscious, they are seeking greener ways to improve their homes. Making them as environmentally safe as possible while adding to the beauty and value of the house.

Adding Solar Panels:

Solar paneled heating is a very green way in which to remodel a home. They are simply placed out in the sun, usually on top of a roof. It is fast and efficient, saving people an enormous amount of money in fuel costs.

Replacing Standard Light Bulbs:

By using compact fluorescent bulbs there will be up to seventy five percent less energy being put out. They also last ten times longer than the regular incandescent kind. Lasting up to seven years and saving consumers in energy costs.

Making Roof Improvements:

Studies have shown that using lighter colored roof tiles drastically lowers the temperature in an attic. Tiled roofs are better than shingled ones in helping to decrease temperatures. When considering making changes to the roof, think about selecting white tiles to reduce the amount of heat that the attic gains.

Installing Motion Detectors:

Replace outdoor lighting with a motion detector to save energy and money. This also prevents wildlife that comes into the yard at night from being disturbed. Unlike outdoor lights which are left on throughout the night, fixtures that are activated by timers or motion sensors save energy while still keeping the area well lit.

Conservation of Water:

It is recommended to check for any leaks and repair them as fast as possible, that way there will be no unnecessary waste of water. When washing laundry try to use cold water as much as possible. Taking quicker showers and not leaving the water running while brushing teeth also helps to conserve water.

Installing HVAC Systems:

A good investment for home remodeling is a high efficiency HVAC heating and cooling system, it should be Energy Star certified. It reduces the amount of greenhouse gas that is emitted into the atmosphere and considerably lowers the utility bill. The higher the Seasonable Energy Efficient Ratio rating is, the more energy efficient the product will be.

Cleaning and Replacing AC Filters:

Air conditioner filters should be replaced or changed on a regular basis. Allowing for a smoother airflow that will not run the system as hard. If nobody is home, adjusting the thermostat in accommodation to the outside temperature will help to save money on the electric bill.

Installing Glass Doors Over Fireplaces:

Using glass doors to cover a fireplace reduces the amount of heat escaping through the chimney and out of the house. They are also much safer than most other covers, including the ones that are screened. Limit the amount of times that the fireplace is used, since there is a lot of heated air that escapes.

Using Power Strips:

Having power strips for computers and other electrical devices will help to conserve energy. They allow power to flow to peripheral devices, such as scanners or printers even when the computer is shut down. This prevents energy from being wasted and usually do not cost that much.

Putting Fans Throughout the House:

Installing exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom will help to pull down unwanted heat and humidity out during warmer months. Putting ceiling fans throughout the house reduces the need for air conditioning use. And in the winter months pushes heat down from the ceiling.

Insulate Windows and Doors:

Insulating the home helps from any heat or air from escaping out of doors and windows. Check for any air leaks around the house, replacing the weather stripping where needed.

Sealing off Switches and Outlets:

Check areas around electrical outlets and light switches for air leaks as well, to prevent any additional loss of energy. Once a leak is detected it should be sealed off right away.

Recycle and Reuse:

Whenever possible try to reuse and recycle products in the home. This is not only a way to save money, but it helps in saving the environment as well.

Insulate Hot Water Heaters:

By adding extra insulation around the hot water heater it saves energy and knocks about twenty percent off of the cost to heat water.

Window Tinting:

Tinting reduces sun glare, making the room a comfortable temperature. It prevents the loss of heat in the winter and keeps out heat gain in the summer. Window tinting protects drapes, curtains, blinds and furniture from fading.

Author Bio:
Brian Potter is a Marketing Lead at HandyPro Atlanta providing all types of contracting and handyman services for residential and commercial clients. Our professional handymen are highly trained to handle all your repair and improvement needs including home modifications for seniors and disabled.