Whether you’ve moved to a new home or have lived in your house for years, it might strike you that now is the time to make some upgrades. While renovating or redecorating rooms can have an obvious effect, more subtle changes to make the property more energy efficient will make their presence known in the form of lower utility bills. The guide below explains some steps you can take for the sake of your wallet—and the planet. 

How to Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly

1. Install New Windows

Damaged windows could be to blame for air leaks inside your home. On average, 25-30% of the energy used for heating and cooling goes towards canceling out the infiltrating air. To keep these costs low, replace the current fixtures with double- or triple-pane windows. Argon gas is sandwiched between the glass panels to provide an extra layer of protection against heat loss. You can also install weatherstripping around windows and door frames to prevent outside air from filtering inside. 

2. Upgrade to LED Lights

If you’ve been lighting your house using traditional bulbs, consider switching to LED lights. They only use 10% of the energy incandescent models require and half that of compact fluorescent fixtures.

3. Plant a Tree

Planting a tree isn’t just a fun project for the family—the vegetation can also make your home more efficient. A shade tree will filter sunlight, protecting the roof and siding from absorbing the heat. This will keep your interiors comfortable during the spring and summer without having to crank the energy-draining air conditioner.

4. Invest in Smart Home Technology

Automation systems are becoming popular features in new homes. Lights, heating and cooling equipment, plumbing fixtures, and additional utilities can be linked to smart home technology. This way, you can monitor electricity, water, and gas usage from your computer or mobile device and program the equipment to make adjustments throughout the day to reduce consumption and the associated costs.

Looking for an energy-efficient, new home in the Houston, TX, area? Contact the professionals at SWE Homes. The real estate agents are dedicated to helping clients find safe, affordable residential properties they can transform into comfortable new homes for their families. Visit the company online to browse listings of available homes for sale or call (713) 413-1000 to inquire about financing options. Become a Facebook follower for updates.