You just moved into your brand new forever home and are now wondering if you did everything you could to reduce your carbon footprint. Since for the most part you can’t change what is already there, check out how you can keep working to reduce your footprint.
- While you probably included smart home lighting fixtures now is the time to go one step further and make sure all your lightbulbs are LED bulbs. LED’s are super efficient, available in a wide selection of shapes, sizes, colors and wattages, and the bulbs, depending on usage, can last more than 10 years.
- Environmentalists and economists have been touting for years the advantage of using cold water on laundry day. Studies have shown the majority of energy a washing machine uses for a single load goes to simply heating the water. Washing in cold not only reduces the amount of carbon dioxide released into the air, it reduces your monthly utility costs and reduces wear and tear on your clothes. Plus, many laundry detergent manufacturers now offer products created specifically for cold water washing.
- Consider a home energy audit. Perhaps you’ve been in your new home for several months and your power bills are much higher than anticipated. A home energy audit can help pinpoint air leakages, ventilation problems, check for correct insulation levels, inspect the heating and air vents, and look at all major appliances to ensure they are Energy Star efficient. Many utility companies build the cost of a yearly home energy audit or home energy assessment into their monthly energy costs, allowing the homeowner to take advantage of this service without any additional charge.
- A tip that isn’t often considered when making large purchases such as appliances, home furnishings and décor, or even when remodeling or redecorating, is buy the best quality you can afford. Better quality translates into a longer product life which means a reduction in how frequently something has to be replaced; and this means less waste being dropped off at the landfill.
- When you landscaped your new home did you leave space for a garden? By growing your own fruits and vegetables you are reducing your carbon footprint in so many ways. The car stays parked since you aren’t driving to the store. There is no grocery receipt or bag to recycle. The plants are absorbing carbon dioxide. Plus, you are getting fresh air, sunshine and some exercise. It’s a total win-win situation. Don’t have a green thumb? Then simply try to buy local whenever possible. This reduces packaging and shipping costs while at the same time supporting local farmers.
Whether you’re purchasing new construction or a pre-owned home, Carolina RES is here to assist with all your real estate service needs. From air quality inspections to radon testing, please call us today at 864-242-1099 to schedule an appointment or for more information. Or you can always email us at info@carolinares.com or simply fill out our convenient online form.
