Green Mini-Makeovers That Will Transform Your Space
Making the switch to green living at home can seem like a daunting task. Environmentally friendly products such as solar panels, new windows, and sustainable building materials have huge upfront costs and are not always an option for homeowners. Here are some simple ways to make your home look and feel more eco friendly without breaking the bank.
Alternative lighting
One of the easiest ways to cut down on energy bills is to make the switch to fluorescent or LED light bulbs throughout the house. If you have the money, consider investing in remotely controlled LED lights that can be turned on, off, and dimmed with a smartphone or tablet app. Set your lights on a timer when you are away from home for additional safety and adjust settings for your individual needs.
Programmable thermostat
Adjust the temperature of your house and set timers for heat and air conditioning with programmable thermostats in order to use as little energy as possible. Some programmable thermostats are also remotely controlled, an added bonus if you go out of town and forget to turn off your air conditioning.
Low flow faucets
Changing out your kitchen and bathroom faucets and showerheads for low flow alternatives is a straightforward and relatively simple DIY project that will save you money in the long run. If you want to further save water in your home, set some water usage ground rules such as taking limited length showers, turning off taps while brushing teeth, and running full loads only on the dishwasher and washing machine.
Air drying laundry station
Tumble dryers are one of the biggest energy wasting culprits in the home. For an instant green fix, set up an air drying station in your laundry room (a slotted air drying rack on the wall or back of the laundry room door will do the trick) and air dry as many of your clothes as possible. In the summer, make use of your backyard’s natural solar power and dry your clothes the traditional way – in the sunshine.
Upcycled furniture
Going green at home is about more than saving energy. Recycling and reusing are just as important as reducing energy bills. When updating furniture and home accessories, consider rehoming items you already have (old trunks, wicker baskets, and sideboards) or buy from charity stores and flea markets. Upcycled furniture adds charm and vintage aesthetic while being sustainable as well.
Kitchen wall vertical garden
Even the least green thumbed homeowner can easily set up a windowsill garden at home. Think out of the box and hang your potted herbs and vegetables on the kitchen wall to add color and creative flair to your cooking and dining space. This project not only looks good but also saves money on fresh produce bills. If, after completing this task, you feel confident in your gardening skills, consider setting up a garden in your backyard to continue your sustainable food production.
Kaitlin Krull is a writer and mom of two girls living the expat life in the UK. Her writing is featured on Modernize.com and a number of home decor sites around the web. She can also be found blogging from time to time on her personal blog, A Vicar’s Wife.
