For most homeowners, living in an eco-friendly home falls into the category of things they would focus on if they only had more time, money, or information. However, if your basement leaks when it rains or you dread receiving your energy bill, making environmentally friendly changes could improve your daily life as well. With a few smart, easy decisions, your home can become a more comfortable, cost-effective and responsible place to live. Read on to learn how you can help your home and your environment.
Update Your Thermostat
A new, programmable thermostat can often cost a few hundred dollars, but it can also save you an average of 10% on your energy bills. Moreover, it can make your home more comfortable by allowing you to set a desired temperature and automatically regulating it. Some models even let you control the thermostat with your phone.
Change Your Furnace Filter
Most people forget that air conditioner and furnace filters should be changed or cleaned regularly. When this task isn’t performed, air is restricted as it attempts to move throughout your home. This causes your furnace to expand more energy, increasing your energy bills. Additionally, the dust and dirt can making indoor living a nightmare for people with allergies, asthma, or chronic conditions. Make sure to clean your filters at least once a month, or call a professional if you don’t know how to do it yourself.
Fix Basement Water Leaks
Basement water leaks are problematic for many reasons: for example, water leaks can cause significant damage, which often leads to a costly foundation repair. To avoid this unnecessary expense, have your basement sealed. By repairing foundation cracks in this way, your home will also be better insulated. Hire a reputable company in your area that specializes in sealing and waterproofing basements. Then, once your basement water leaks are taken care of, look for other cracks in your windows, attacks and doors to further improve your home’s insulation.
Make environmentally friendly changes in your home may seem difficult, but even the simplest decisions can have monumental effects. What steps have you taken to create a comfortable, eco-friendly home? Tell us about it in the comments below!
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