You don’t have to only focus on the utilitarian parts of your house when trying to make it more energy efficient. You can focus on more than adequate insulation in the attic, energy-efficient window panes and washers that use very little water. There also are eco-friendly designs that are lovely to look at. When updating your home, consider the following ideas:
Let Landscaping Play Double Duty
There are many landscaping options that look great and help cut down on your home’s energy use. Better Homes and Gardens recommends planting deciduous trees on the west and south sides of your home because the leaf-filled trees shade your home during the hottest part of the year and then, in the winter when the leaves fall off, the branches let sunlight through to warm the house.
Hang Window Coverings
When it comes to being more energy efficient, a great place to start is with your window coverings, especially if your windows are not well insulated. Window treatments can complement any type of room design while also helping to maintain the light and temperature of your room. Depending on which direction your windows face, hang blackout curtains to keep harsh summer light from heating up your room or install solar shades to let in natural light without letting UV rays damage your furniture. Also look for window treatments made from eco-friendly materials. For example, The Shade Store offers shades and blinds made from bamboo and other low-impact materials.
Run Ceiling Fans
To avoid running the A/C non-stop during the summer, add ceiling fans to your most-used rooms. In addition to being budget friendly and easy to find, they use a low amount of energy — about the same as a 100-watt light bulb. Check out the Energy Star website prior to shopping to make sure you purchase an energy-efficient model.
To keep your home as cool as possible, set the fan to turn counterclockwise during the warm months and clockwise during the winter. Many people find that they can turn their thermostat up a few degrees during the summer, which can lead to saving up to 40 percent on energy bills, according to Redbeacon. In the winter, a spinning fan also can help push warm air back down into the room. This allows you to lower your heat and save around 10 percent.
Let in Natural Light With Skylights
Consider installing a few skylights in the rooms you use the most. With skylights you can take advantage of natural light and not turn on the lights inside your home during the day, which can lead to huge savings. The DIY Network offers great advice and tips for homeowners who want to install skylights themselves or you can hire a professional if you’re not up for a big project.
For rooms that get hot, a self-ventilating skylight allows you to vent the room as well as let natural light in. Venting also is great for cooler days and nights when you want to let accumulated heat out.