Green technologies help reduce utility costs and reliance on fossil fuels, and they also can beautify the home. You can turn your humble abode into a planet-friendly oasis by choosing the right sustainable technologies. For readers looking to reduce their home’s carbon footprint, here are nine green home technologies.
Programmable smart thermostat
The temperature in your home regulates your comfort level. It determines whether you’re freezing, burning up, or just right. With an old-fashioned thermostat, you can only set the temperature manually, meaning if the weather changes while you’re away, you’ll be at the mercy of cold floors or sweaty windows when you return.
Smart thermostats are the newest clever home solution to this problem. Smart thermostats let you control the temperature and HVAC system through a smartphone app. Using this invention, you can control the temperature in your house from anywhere with WiFi.
A solar battery charger
If you use different battery-powered devices, you want to keep them charged. With a solar battery charger, you can charge your phone with the rays of the sun. These little tools let you unplug (literally) and use free energy to charge your smartphone, tablet, or other small electronic devices. Solar battery chargers are convenient for camping trips, where they prove that off-the-map doesn’t have to be off-the-grid.
Smart power strips
When your electronic devices and appliances are in standby mode, they continue to use electricity. Though it doesn’t seem like much, this residual electricity use can stack up over time. That’s where smart power strips make their entrance. These power strips only send electricity to devices when they need it, lowering your utility bills.
Tankless water heaters
The beauty of tankless water heaters is that they have a continual flow of warm water. Without a tank, the water doesn’t sit around waiting for you to use it. This type of water heater warms as the water flows through it, giving you all the warm water you need for your warm baths and showers without the exorbitant price of keeping a tank hot.
Rainwater catchment systems
Rather than relying on clean municipal water to hydrate your grass and landscaping, you can install a rainwater catchment system. When it’s time to water your yard, you use that water and reduce your consumption by a significant amount. If you love your lawn but hate the high price tag that comes with watering it, rainwater catchment could be the solution for you.
Residential wind turbine
The giant turbines at wind farms can power hundreds of homes for a year. If you’ve got the space, you can install your own personal-sized wind turbine to decrease your reliance on costly utilities. Check the US Department of Energy’s wind map to determine whether you live in a place that benefits from wind energy.
Solar panels
One of the best technologies to improve your sustainable sanctuary is solar panels. When you harness the power of the sun, you reduce your reliance on nonrenewable energy. The newest solar panels are aesthetically pleasing, so you don’t have to worry about unsightly roof hangers-on. If your monthly electricity bill has you hitting the ceiling, you should consider installing solar panels.
Sustainable flooring
When it comes time to replace your flooring, consider using sustainable materials. Natural flooring made from bamboo has become a popular choice for people who want durable and renewable flooring. Homeowners can also turn to cork and rubber flooring from renewable resources for a home that looks great and loves the planet.
Skylights for more natural lighting
Your sanctuary needs lovely lighting, and skylights, especially tubular ones, provide light and warmth. The only cost is the light and installation. Once you have solar tube skylights installed, you’ll notice your heating bills drop.
Wrap up
Adding sustainable, green technologies to your home can bring more comfort and warmth while reducing your utility bills. Start with just one and notice how your energy bills decrease.