The environment has been a topic of discussion for the last few decades, with global warming being a huge concern for scientists and world citizens alike.
In recent times, movements spouting change and action towards living a more sustainable life have encouraged some individuals to take the step towards reducing their carbon footprints. One way to live sustainably is to change how you consume energy and resources in your home.
Here are some eco-conscious renovations that will not only impact the environment positively but will also help you increase your home value:
1. Solar panels
Solar panels are a great way to reduce the amount of electricity you use. Electricity is expensive to manufacture, and this cost is felt by consumers. In addition to this, the burning of coal to produce electricity has a disastrous effect on the environment.
Adding solar panels to your home may be expensive at first, but down the line, you will have saved much more than your installation costs. Solar energy will help you use way less electricity, driving your electricity bill down. You can also add a solar-powered water heater/geyser to further drive down costs. And of course, the best part about solar energy is that it’s free, the environment doesn’t have to suffer, and load shedding will no longer be a huge concern for you.
2. Rainwater catcher
Water consumption is a huge part of environmentally friendly living. The rising temperature of the earth has led to water shortages in some parts of the globe, with Cape Town’s Day Zero being a prime example of a global warming induced drought.
Installing a rainwater catcher is an excellent way to put less pressure on the country’s water supply and save water, reduce soil erosion and pollution from fertilizers or pesticides, save money and improve plant and soil health.
3. A vegetable garden
A well-maintained vegetable garden can improve your home value, as long as it isn’t overdone. Anything that’s too over-the-top will take a lot of money to upkeep, and that can be off-putting to potential buyers should you decide to sell your home.
Adding a small patch of vegetables in your garden is a good way to reduce your food costs and grow your own organic food, which is not only good for your health but will do wonders for the environment too.
4. Geothermal heating and cooling (Geothermal HVAC)
Geothermal heating and cooling involves the use of the earth’s geothermal energy for the purpose of heating and cooling a home. This is made possible through the use of a system of buried pipes that work with the earth’s underground temperature.
Geothermal HVAC requires a minute amount of electricity to run, and this process of heating and cooling your home has a very low carbon footprint, meaning it’s great for the environment, unlike regular air conditioners.
This heating and cooling system will ensure that your home stays perfectly cool in the summer and warm in the winter at a really low cost.
5. Low-flow water fixtures
Low-flow fixtures are plumbing additions that help conserve a significant amount of water. Installing these in your home will reduce water consumption by 20%, helping you use less water and save money in the process.
If you are looking to renovate your home and increase your home’s value, consider adding eco-friendly additions that will not only be beneficial for the environment but will be beneficial for your pockets too.
