Green homes can be categorized for many reasons. These include the uncommon (grass roofing), common (ecologically-sensitive paint) or the obscure (earthships). Buyers and builders are often confused about what constitutes a “green house”. It must be built with bamboo floors and hay-bale walls. Is it possible to make a house greener by using less energy?
A green home is defined by the Environmental Protection Agency as one that uses energy efficient products and construction techniques. Energy Star homes are able to save homeowners up to $400 annually on their utility bills, EPA estimates.
Some homeowners are concerned about the initial costs associated with going green, despite these savings. It doesn’t have to cost a lot to make your home more eco-friendly. You can go green slowly; small changes can add up to make your living environment more sustainable.
A home that is air sealed can help make it environmentally-friendly. The air conditioner will work harder if there are cracks and gaps in a home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s findings, 82% of homes lose energy due to leakage in their ceilings, walls, floors, around windows and doors, in plumbing penetrations, in ducts, or electrical outlets. The Rocky Mountain Institute estimates that homeowners can save as much as $100 per year by sealing these leaks.
An insulating foam sealant like Great Stuff Insulating Foam Seam Sealant is the best way to air-seal your home. Great Stuff expands to fit the size and shape of a void and forms a permanent, water-resistant, and airtight seal that stops cool air from entering the home.
Green can also refer to planting green things around your home. A well-designed landscape will not only enhance the beauty of a home but also help to reduce heating and cooling costs. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, planting three trees in shade around a home can reduce heating and cooling costs by $100 to $250 annually. In their first year, newly planted trees will shade windows and reach the roof within five to ten years. The home will be more comfortable in winter and summer by adding a row of plants or shrubs to create dead airspaces.
Going green does not necessarily mean doing little things. Unused lights and appliances should be turned off. Close the curtains and pull down the shades to stop sunlight heating the home. Adjust the temperature of your water heater between 115 to 120 degrees. Install a programmable thermostat. After each load, clean out the dryer’s filter.
