Do you want to make your home more eco-friendly while saving some money? There are many upgrades you can make that not only reduce your environmental footprint but also save money on your energy bills. Here are ten eco-friendly home upgrades that you can do to make your home more comfortable and environmentally friendly.

1. Install Solar Panels

Solar panels use the sun’s energy to produce electricity, which can replace the energy you get from your utility company. Although installing solar panels has upfront costs, it can save you significantly on your energy bills in the long run. Moreover, some states provide tax incentives and rebates to encourage alternative energy sources that can help reduce the cost of installation. With some careful calculations and research, you can figure out how to get the most out of your solar panels to save money and reduce your carbon footprint.

A house with solar panels on its roof

2. Replace Incandescent Bulbs with LED Bulbs

Switching to LED bulbs can save you a lot of money on your electricity bill while reducing your carbon footprint. Compared to incandescent bulbs, LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy and last much longer. Due to their high efficiency, LED bulbs generate less heat, making them a smart choice for the environment and savings. Additionally, LED bulbs come in different shades and brightness, making them versatile in creating the perfect ambiance in your home.

LED bulbs of different colors and sizes

3. Install Programmable Thermostats

Programmable thermostats allow you to automatically reduce your heating and cooling usage when it’s not needed, for example, when you’re sleeping or not home. By lowering your energy usage, you can save money and reduce your carbon footprint. A programmable thermostat can also reduce the wear and tear on your HVAC system, which extends its lifespan and reduces maintenance costs.

A digital thermostat with a temperature setting of 70°F

4. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Upgrading appliances that consume a lot of energy, such as your refrigerator, dishwasher, or washing machine, to energy-efficient models can save you substantially on your energy bills. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which indicate that they meet specific energy efficiency criteria. Replacing the outdated models can help reduce your household energy costs, conserve natural resources, and help protect the environment.

A kitchen with energy-efficient appliances

5. Install Low-Flow Toilets and Showerheads

Installing low-flow toilets and showerheads can significantly reduce your water usage without affecting your comfort. Low-flow fixtures conserve water by restricting the amount of water that flows through them. It’s an affordable upgrade that can save you money on your water bills while also conserving resources and reducing your environmental impact.

A low-flow showerhead in a modern bathroom

6. Start Composting

Composting is the process of decomposing organic waste, such as vegetable scraps, leaves, and grass cuttings. Instead of throwing food scraps into the trash, you can collect them in a compost bin and turn them into nutrient-rich soil for your garden. By composting, you’re not only reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills but also creating a natural fertilizer that helps your plants thrive.

A compost bin filled with fruit and vegetable scraps and yard waste

7. Upgrade Your Windows

Upgrading your windows to energy-efficient models can help reduce your energy usage and make your home more comfortable. Energy-efficient windows are designed to keep heat inside during cooler months and outside during warmer months, keeping your energy bills down and your home more comfortable. Replacing your old windows with new energy-efficient models is an investment that pays off in energy savings and increased comfort.

A room with double-paned energy-efficient windows

8. Add Insulation

Adding insulation to your home can significantly reduce heat loss in the winter and keep your home cooler in the summer, reducing your energy costs year-round. Insulation is an affordable and effective way to make your home more energy-efficient and comfortable. Additionally, insulation can help reduce outside noise entering your home, making it quieter and more peaceful.

A worker installing insulation in an attic

9. Reduce Phantom Energy

Phantom energy, also known as standby power, is the energy consumed by electronic devices when they’re not in use. Despite not being powered on, these devices continue to draw energy from the outlet, adding to your energy bill. To reduce phantom energy, unplug or turn off electronic devices when not in use, or use smart power strips that can cut the power to multiple devices when not used.

A smart power strip with connected devices turned off

10. Use Sustainable Materials

Using eco-friendly materials in your home can have a positive impact on the environment while also reducing maintenance costs and enhancing your home’s appeal. Materials such as bamboo, cork, or reclaimed wood can add a sustainable and stylish touch to your home. Additionally, using green cleaning products can help protect your family’s health and the environment.

A stylish living room with sustainable materials and decor

Making eco-friendly upgrades to your home can be an investment that pays off in energy savings and improved comfort, while also reducing your carbon footprint. Choosing efficient appliances, using sustainable materials, and reducing your energy usage can help you save money, making it a win-win for both you and the planet.

A collage of images from the previous points with an eco-friendly and homey vibe