Today’s homeowners are conscious of the environment and want to make eco-friendly choices for their homes. In addition to making changes around the house that benefit the earth, homeowners are also motivated by the cost savings that can be realized when they can find new ways to reduce their power use around the house. There are a number of ways for homeowners to create a green home, and the following methods focus on maximizing efficiency and reducing power waste.

Solar panels use heat from the sun’s rays, which is a renewable resource, as opposed to coal or fossil fuels. Installing panels allows homeowners to use this technology to power their home and reduce their utility bills at the same time. Many solar energy systems will pay for themselves in about 5 years, and the monthly savings will continue well beyond that, allowing Firestone area homeowners to benefit financially and reduce the environmental footprint of their home at the same time.

Energy of any kind should be respected and used only when needed. One of the easiest ways conserve it around the house is through the lights that are used. LED lights have lower emissions and use less power than incandescent bulbs or compact fluorescent lights. Installing LED lights around the home allows owners to reduce their power use and enjoy the cost savings on their monthly bills. Even more savings will be realized when homeowners make an effort to turn lights off when they’re not in a room and to use only what they require. It’s a small and easy step that can add up over time and one that will cut down on power waste.

Up to 25% of a home’s heat loss comes from poorly insulated windows. Homeowners end up paying more on their heating bills and using more power than is needed. Newer homes are built with high efficiency windows and older homes can have their windows replaced. Windows should be checked as part of a home’s annual maintenance, and any cracks or caulking repairs should be attended to to ensure that there aren’t any air leaks that would cause heat to escape and let cold air in.

Power-efficient appliances are another way in which homeowners can cut down on their output and save money on their utility bills. There are a number of incentives and rebates available for Firestone homeowners who replace appliances, hot water tanks, furnaces, or choose to use solar energy as their main power source.

It’s easy to see how cost savings can quickly add up when homeowners take measures to cut down on wasting power and find ways to make their homes run more efficiently. In addition to the financial benefits, the environmental footprint of a green home is much less than one that uses conventional power and has outdated lights, windows, and appliances.