Energy Efficient Home Renovation Projects

Energy Efficient Home Renovation Projects

In this age of environmental protection and green living, many people find themselves faced with home renovation projects which can help reduce their environmental impact. These are excellent things to do and, apart from potential tax breaks now, can reward you over the years. Most people choose to renovate homes they have planned to stay in for many decades, since the costs will eventually pay for themselves. However, there are little things that even renters can do to help.

One common, though initially expensive, procedure is to install solar energy and thermal panels on your roof. These are costly to make and install, and therefore costly for the consumer. This is definitely something for a long-term abode because they will reduce your heating and electricity bills enough to pay for themselves over the years.

They take heat and energy from the sun and convert it into heat and energy for your house. It makes the consumer far less reliant on fuel and regular electricity. They require little-to-no maintenance and can barely be noticed on your roof. You can get huge tax credits for installing something so good for the environment.

One can also put in energy-efficient insulation. Most people put in fiberglass insulation which is both good and bad. It is good because it keeps a house very warm and therefore does not require as much energy or fuel to heat. The bad component is that fiberglass is not biodegradable. Many houses that have been demolished or repaired cause insulation to be thrown away. It has a very negative impact on the environment it ends up in.

A smarter option would be to research what other products are available in your area. Mineral wool, for example, is a natural product made of minerals that conducts heat extremely well. The downside is that it does not protect as well against fires. There are countless options you can use. Ask your contractor or do your own research to figure out what might work best for you.

Pellet stoves are great for green living. They use wood pellets instead of actual logs and can get just as much heat out of far less wood. This not only keeps more trees living, but it allows people to use less heat. This is another device which can get you a tax write-off. It is not wasteful, either. Modern pellet stoves come with sensors so they can automatically shut off or turn on when certain temperatures are reached. In this way, no heat is wasted.

Wind turbines are huge structures which harness the power of the wind, just as windmills did. Only wind turbines feed their power to homes and businesses. Keep an eye out for turbines in your area. They are still to large and costly to be logical options for each individual home, but scientists are working on making their benefits reach every person.

There are also small things you can do to conserve your own energy. Use energy efficient lighting. Make sure that all windows and doors are draught-proofed so you do not lose heat. Create a good recycling center in your home to make separation of recyclables easier. Have timers on your appliances so they can be sure to be turned off every morning, in the event that you forget when you are running late to work.