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Making your older home "green"

Friday, February 28, 2014 @ 11:31 AM
Posted By: Joseph Giovinazzo

People with older homes often feel they can only go green by buying a brand new, high-efficiency house. However, there is a case to be made for upgrading an older home, but where do you start? Start small and work up to the larger and more expensive changes. 

Begin with switching your light bulbs to CFLs or LEDs. The investment is small, but the savings add up quickly. Then, add a programmable thermostat. Many regions offer money-back rebates to install one. The new models are so sophisticated that they can be programmed for weekday versus weekend temperatures and even run a vacation setting where the heat or air conditioning is turned as low as possible. Set the temperature to adjust about half an hour before you get up in the morning or come home in the evening for optimal savings and comfort. 

Add power bars with a main switch to your electronic devices. Many electronics have standby power usage called phantom load. With a master switch, you can make sure that off really means off. 

Replace your appliances, furnace and air conditioners with EnergyStar rated options. And don't forget to clean your furnace and air conditioner filters every two to three months. They'll run more efficiently and use less energy.

Is it time for a new roof? Did you know that installing a white or reflective roof could save you up to 40 per cent on your cooling bills? Black roofs soak up heat, while white roofs reflect it. Just by changing your roof's colour, you can help the environment and save money.

Add insulation. Insulate your roof and walls well with blown-in cellulose. You'll be amazed at what a difference it will make to the comfort of your home. Wall insulation can be added by strategically drilling holes through the exterior and filling each wall cavity. Or, walls can be insulated inside, requiring some interior drywall patching.

Once you have tackled these projects, start thinking big. Are wind turbines or solar panels good choices for your home? Research what options are available to actually generate your own power instead of only conserving.

Upgrading your existing home is a great way to go green without spending more energy to build new. You'll spend less on energy, be more comfortable and help save the planet, too.

Category: Real Estate

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