Green Technology
The decision to "go green" is something many new homeowners wrestle with. Though the initial cost for many of these improvements can be substantial, going green will save you money in the long run, while helping the environment almost immediately.
Buying a home is an exciting time for any individual or family. The thought of moving into a place that is completely yours is unlike anything else. Along with this freedom comes many decisions you’ll have to make. Using solar power technologies, harvesting rainwater, using Energy Star appliances, and installing proper insulation are four examples of green technologies that are used in many homes today.
Solar Power
Installing solar panels is a great way to lower the cost of utilities in your home. Though the initial expense is something you’ll have to consider, it is estimated that you will recoup your expenses within 6-10 years. A solar array can save you on average $44-$187 per month (depending on where you live). According to a Utah solar provider, there are also a variety of tax incentives and rebates that can be redeemed, making this process even more affordable. If installing an entire solar array is out of your budget, consider investing in something less intimidating, like a solar water heater. This will cost you significantly less at first, at around and will recoup your expenses in as little as 2 years.Harvest Rainwater
Another green technology that is appearing in many homes are rainwater harvesting systems. These systems are incredibly simple to assemble, and easy to use. They connect to a home's gutter system and collect rainwater to be used for purposes such as flushing the toilet, watering plants, and small irrigation systems. Though the initial cost may range from $300-$700, you can save an average of $3-$12 per year in water expenses. Besides saving money, you will also be contributing to water conservation awareness in your area.Related articles
Energy Star Appliances
Finally, one of the most common green technologies or new homes are Energy Star appliances. From refrigerators and washing machines to HVAC systems, Energy Star appliances are lowering consumer's energy bills greatly. The percent reduction in energy by using one of these appliances varies, but all will use significantly less energy than its traditional counterpart. An Energy Star refrigerator, for example, uses 15% less energy, and an Energy Star washing machine is capable of using up to 50% less energy. HVAC systems typically are the biggest culprit for expensive utility bills. Heating a home, on average, takes up to 43% of a household’s energy usage. By switching to an Energy Star HVAC system, users can save 30% of their heating bill annually.Insulation
Many people assume that going green means investing in brand new technology. Though this is sometimes the case, investing in reliable insulation is a great way to save money on heating bills and lower your energy consumption too. The EPA estimates that 10% of a home's heating costs can be linked to poor insulation. The good news is, replacing insulation is relatively affordable at $2,500-$5,000, depending on the contractor you hire. Obviously this will be even less expensive if you choose to install new insulation yourself.Finding a home that is up to date on green technologies will not only save you money, but will also help you become a more environmentally conscious consumer. Many of these technologies are relatively affordable and have the ability to recoup your money in several years or less. If becoming green is something that is important to you, start with small, manageable changes and then move towards more ambitious goals as you begin to see results.
| By Brooke Chaplan | Embed |
Author Bio - 33rd Square contributor Brooke Chaplan is recent graduate of New Mexico University where she studied journalism. She loves to hike, bike, run and explore around her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She also enjoys blogging about health, fitness, fashion and many other topics.
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