Today’s homes are built to increasingly stringent efficiency standards. At the same time, many homeowners are working to make older homes more sustainable and eco-friendly. Many of these upgrades can pay for themselves in the savings you will see on utilities. If you are looking to cut back on bills while also improving your home’s overall environmental impact, these three home improvement projects are good places to start.
- Low-Flow Water Fixtures
Water isn’t free, as you probably know when you pay the water bill each month. Plumbing fixtures such as aerators and low-flow showerheads can cut back on how much water your family uses without them even noticing. As a bonus, many low-flow fixtures are inexpensive and simple to install so that most homeowners with a minimum amount of DIY skill and an adjustable wrench can complete this project themselves.
- A Programmable Thermostat
According to the Department of Energy, you can save as much as 10% non your home’s energy bills by adjusting your thermostat for eight hours each day. That’s why a programmable or smart thermostat is a small upgrade that can result in big savings. It will automatically adjust the temperature in your home to accommodate the household’s schedule. Everyone stays comfortable and your bills go down — a win all around.
- Energy-Efficient Appliances
Upgrading to a new refrigerator, oven or air conditioner can make a big difference in how much power your home uses. Older appliances often draw a massive amount of electricity during operation, and newer technology tends to be much more efficient. Tankless water heaters are a perfect example. Instead of heating water that may or may not be used, they heat water on demand when you turn on a faucet. Installing a major appliance can be a slightly more involved project that will most likely require a professional. Look for someone with experience in tankless water heater plumbing Houston TX for the best results.
Home improvements such as installing low-flow faucets, swapping out your thermostat and upgrading appliances can lead to significant savings on utility bills.
