Making your home more sustainable not only reduces your environmental footprint but can also save you money in the long run. Arlington Designer Homes is committed to Green, energy efficient home building.
We certify all Arlington projects under the Arlington County Green Home Choice program. Within that program, we customize projects to the needs and the priorities of our clients including cost effectiveness and savings, as well as comfort and health. We have different solutions for all of our clients’ needs on a case by case basis.
Here are some Green upgrades you can consider:
- Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace old appliances with energy-efficient models. Look for appliances with the ENERGY STAR label, which indicates they meet high energy efficiency standards.
- LED Lighting: Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with LED lighting. LED bulbs use significantly less energy and last much longer than incandescent bulbs.
- Smart Thermostat: Install a smart thermostat to optimize heating and cooling settings based on your schedule and preferences. This can help reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.
- Solar Panels: Consider installing solar panels to generate renewable energy for your home. While the upfront cost can be high, solar panels can significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity bills over time.
- Energy-Efficient Windows and Doors: Upgrade to energy-efficient windows and doors with proper insulation to reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer. This can improve comfort and reduce energy usage for heating and cooling.
- Insulation: Improve insulation in your home to prevent heat loss during winter and heat gain during summer. This can reduce the need for heating and cooling, saving energy and money.
- Water-Efficient Fixtures: Install water-efficient fixtures such as low-flow toilets, shower heads, and faucets to reduce water consumption. This not only conserves water but also lowers water bills.
- Rainwater Harvesting System: Install a rainwater harvesting system to collect rainwater from your roof for outdoor use, such as watering plants or washing cars. This reduces reliance on municipal water sources.
- Composting System: Start a composting system to recycle organic waste from your kitchen and garden into nutrient-rich compost for your plants. This reduces waste sent to landfills and improves soil health.
- Energy Monitoring Systems: Install energy monitoring systems to track your home’s energy usage in real-time. This awareness can help you identify areas where energy is being wasted and take steps to reduce consumption.
- Native Landscaping: Plant native vegetation in your yard, as it requires less water and maintenance compared to exotic species. Native plants also provide habitat for local wildlife and support biodiversity.
- Green Roof or Garden: Consider installing a green roof or rooftop garden to improve insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, and create habitat for birds and insects.
- Heat Pump Water Heater: Replace your traditional water heater with a heat pump water heater, which is more energy-efficient and can significantly reduce water heating costs.
- Home Automation: Use smart home automation systems to control lighting, heating, cooling, and appliances more efficiently. This can help optimize energy usage and reduce waste.
By implementing these upgrades, you can make your house more sustainable, reduce your environmental impact, and save money on energy and water bills. Work with an experienced Green home builder, like Arlington Designer Homes, to make these sustainable features part of your family’s home.
