Here’s How You Can Go Eco-Friendly and Tech-Smart with Your Home Upgrades
Being eco-conscious may feel like a heavy obligation, but when it comes to building or remodeling a home to be greener, it’s easier than you might think. Modern amenities combined with eco-friendly materials and features means a home you’ll love for years to come. You can get started searching for a new home with Ann Carr Realtors today, but keep these considerations in mind when building or buying property.
Looking for a new home in Abilene, TX? Work together with the trusted and experienced professionals at ACR –Ann Carr Realtors! Call 325-513-2744 or fill out this form online.
Get Your Green-Up List of Must-Haves Ready
Whether you’re remodeling to build a comfortable home office or mixing up your floorplan to be more accessible, think about adding these energy-saving convenience features to your home. Keep in mind there are pros and cons to each, so do your research and plan wisely.
Solar panels. Solar energy can offset or even eliminate your utility costs, notes The Penny Hoarder, and renewable energy is always good for the planet. However, installation costs and maintenance can impact your overall savings.
Energy-efficient lighting. Motion-sensing lighting on the exterior of your home can enhance safety for everyone and cut costs, but swapping out lightbulbs is a highly efficient way to reduce your energy expenditures, says Energy.gov. Plus, smart light bulbs are controllable by smartphone apps, so no one needs to reach a light switch to adjust them.
Energy-saving appliances. Cutting down on energy usage doesn’t have to mean sitting in the dark. All manner of modern appliances use less energy than previous models, and finding Energy Star-rated tech is easier (and more affordable) than ever. Plus, a high-efficiency washer can use less energy, water, and even detergent without sacrificing your clean clothes in exchange.
Low-water upgrades. Water waste is one of the biggest issues in the modern world. But while you’re renovating your home, swapping your existing toilet for an accessible and low-flow model is a smart switch. A tankless water heater is another smart investment for many homeowners. You can also aim to use recycled water for flushing the toilet and other household uses.
Incorporate Smart Components for Easier and Greener Living
Voice assistants are becoming increasingly popular for a reason: any amenity that makes life easier for people of all abilities is a highlight. But can you combine green living with tech elements? The answer is yes – though you may need to get creative.
For example, Wi-Fi-enabled thermostats allow you to adjust the temperature from your smartphone. But if you’re renovating an older home, a brand-new smart thermostat may not help lower your energy bills if your insulation is lacking.
Similarly, refreshing your home’s lighting with smart light bulbs can cut down on energy costs and make ambiance adjustments simpler from your favorite device. However, some Wi-Fi-compatible equipment requires a certain network type or speed.
When utilizing smart components in your home, you’ll need a smartphone that’s powerful enough to handle all your tasks. The latest models can be prohibitively expensive, but you’d be wise to check in with your wireless provider to see if they’re offering any sign-up or trade-in deals.
Don’t Skip Digital Improvements
Knowing what you need to make the most of environmentally-conscious upgrades is a must when remodeling and modernizing your property. Of course, if you’re expanding your home’s digital footprint, you should also consider cybersecurity a home improvement must-do.
Ensuring your digital safety means implementing privacy measures, utilizing tools like anti-virus software and firewalls, and defending your private information against potential hackers. Knowing how to recognize the signs of a cyber scam is another essential step in your journey with eco-tech.
Buying a new home is a significant investment, but renovating can quickly add up, too. By implementing these energy-saving, environmentally-friendly, and safe improvements, however, you can earn a higher return on your investment while doing right by the planet and every person in your home, regardless of their ability level.
Written by: Mary Shannon
mary@seniorsmeet.org
