Sustainable Living: Eco-Friendly Features to Look for in a New Home
More and more people globally are embracing the trend of sustainable living. People are slowly grasping the fact that the natural resources Earth has are limited and that we should be mindful in using them to be able to preserve them as long as possible. Changing our lifestyles and making our homes more sustainable are great ways to start. There are so many ways we can make our homes eco-friendlier. Searching for a home with certain eco-friendly features should be your priority if you are in the home shopping process. Keep reading to learn more about sustainable living and eco-friendly features to look for in a new home.
When looking for a new home, there are several essential aspects to look into more closely. They include the energy the home uses – it is a huge plus if it uses some renewable energy source. Then, you should look at water usage and its conservation. The insulation should be good and made of natural resources – it will decrease heating and cooling usage and utilities. Another aspect you should consider is the lighting and ventilation. And lastly, energy-star appliances are a must-have for conscious living.
- Renewable energy
The excessive dependence on fossil fuels significantly affects our environment, and we must prioritise the transition to renewable energy sources. Investing in solar panels, biomass boilers, and heat pumps enables us to generate our own energy economically, thereby reducing our dependence on traditional energy sources. While these technologies may involve higher initial costs, long-term energy savings will eventually offset the investment. A few plausible renewable energy sources are available – the best one for you depends on your area. It is, in fact, dependent on the natural features of your area. For some people, that’s the sun; for some, water; while for others, it’s the wind. You should use whatever your local area offers you.
If you are looking to buy a property in Melbourne, you should hire local Mornington real estate agents to help you find a property that is appealing and sustainable. That will save you money on future investments and utility bills.
- Water conservation
The next crucial aspect you should consider is water usage and its conservation. Incorporating water conservation systems is a simple and effective method to decrease water consumption and minimise energy usage. Rainwater harvesting systems can be installed to collect rainwater, which can be utilised for various purposes, such as watering gardens, washing cars, and even flushing toilets, resulting in significant water savings. Additionally, implementing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and water-efficient appliances like dishwashers and washing machines can contribute to water conservation without users noticing it. With advancements in construction, modern homes are now better insulated than ever before. As hot water production typically constitutes a significant portion of energy consumption, it is essential to have a system specifically designed to cater to this requirement.
- Insulation
One of the vital components of sustainable building and living is insulation. Good, quality, and eco-friendly insulation increase a property’s geothermal potential. Additionally, it saves money on utility bills. But not only that, it also reduces the carbon footprint. Traditional insulation materials contain hazardous chemicals and additives. Another alternative, eco-friendlier insulation materials are free of such chemicals and thus non-toxic for people and the environment. Materials such as sheep’s wool, cotton, cork, and recycled plastic are exceptional insulators with several beneficial characteristics. Not only do they provide efficient insulation, but they are also renewable, non-toxic, and biodegradable.
- Lighting and ventilation
When looking at potential future homes, you should also consider lighting. The more natural lighting it has, the better for you. For a home to be considered fully green (or green for the most part), it should use all the natural lighting and ventilation available. When a home is built in such a way to use these natural resources effectively, it will ensure a healthier and more efficient indoor environment we all strive for.
- Energy star appliances
This is something that probably wouldn’t cross your mind – but checking appliances if they have an energy star is another thing you should add to your list when assessing a home for its eco-friendliness. When an appliance bears an Energy Star label, it indicates that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognised it as energy efficient. Opting for such products allows you to conserve energy without compromising features or functionality.
We should all make some eco-friendly changes in our lives as a little effort on our side can mean a lot for our planet.
