You don’t have to undergo a massive home improvement project to create an eco-friendly home. Here are a few simple changes you can make to help drastically reduce your carbon footprint (and your bills) to make your home more eco-friendly.
While it may be tempting to buy the seemingly most ‘cost-effective’ bulbs, let us convince you otherwise. LED bulbs aren’t just a whole lot more energy-efficient – they also last way longer – 50 times longer than your regular incandescent bulb! The light they emit is also higher quality, as you’re getting more lumens per watt.
Transitioning into LED bulbs is an easy first step towards an eco-friendly home. Go to the store, and stock up on your new bulbs. It will probably be the last time you buy lightbulbs for a decade.Â
Your washer and dryer are a huge energy sink. Most of your electricity goes towards your washer and dryer.Â
So how do you wash more responsibly for an eco-friendly home?
Firstly, switch to cold water only. Or at least as often as possible. You’ll cut down significantly on your energy use.Â
To cut down even further, try cutting down your dryer usage. We know how convenient it is to toss all your laundry in a quick dry, but most of your clothing can easily be line dried – or air dried if you don’t have a clothesline. What’s more, your clothes will probably be in better shape and last longer if you stick to air-drying. The dryer is known to wear down clothes more quickly.Â
One of the most effective ways to make your home more eco-friendly is to upgrade your heating and cooling systems. By switching over to an energy-efficient system, you’ll save costs and lots of energy.Â
Napoleon Furnaces are energy-star rated and will save you more than $500 a year on gas compared to your old furnace. With clean-air technology and certified ‘whisper-quiet’ operation, investing in a Napoleon Furnace is probably one of the best things you can do for your home. A lifetime warranty isn’t bad, either.
If you find yourself using a lot of cooling during the long summers, Napoleon Air Conditioners are the perfect eco-friendly alternative to your old-school cooling system. Made with green technology and a high-quality filter drier, your home will be happier and more comfortable with one of these during the summer months.Â
Or, if you want the best of both worlds, a Split Ductless Heating & Cooling System is for you. Remote controlled, with multiple zone capabilities, this energy star-rated system is the perfect all-in-one system for an eco-friendly home.
To get some advice on what heating or cooling system is right for you, give your local Fireplace Centre a call.Â
Did you know organic waste in landfills can generate methane, a harmful greenhouse gas? But by repurposing your organic waste and using it as fertilizer instead, you’re reducing methane emissions while giving your garden the nutrients it needs to thrive – without wasting money on chemical fertilizers.Â
Instead of throwing that banana peel in the garbage, collect your food scraps in a compost bin for later use. You’ll thank yourself later. And so will your garden. And well, so will the Earth.Â
If your home isn’t adequately insulated, you can expect about half of your heat to escape. Imagine all the energy and money you’re wasting on escaping heat!Â
By installing insulation in your home, you’ll drastically reduce the energy it takes to heat or cool your space. Not only will you see a drop in your energy bills, but you’ll also be reducing your greenhouse gas emissions.Â
Use sealant strips on the bottom of doors, caulk in the nooks and crannies of windows, and foam boards for the roof or foundation of the house. These are just a few steps you can take to elevate your home’s insulation.Â
Here are a few more ways to insulate your home.
Cut down on energy costs by implementing a smart thermostat into your home. A smart thermostat is controllable from your phone, so you can ensure your home temperature is set to low while you’re out at work or away on vacation, but you can easily turn it back up in time for your return. Or, set your thermostat on a schedule.Â
We love a DIY home improvement project. But let’s not forget that our home extends beyond just our house. The ultimate home improvement project is to create a more hospitable planet for everybody – a project we can all take part in. By taking these simple steps to ensure your house is eco-friendly, you’re contributing to a happier, healthier Earth for your future self and all those who come after you.Â
The Fireplace Center and Patio Shop is your one-stop-shop for all your indoor and outdoor essentials. With one of Canada’s largest showrooms, we have over 200 fireplaces on display. With extensive knowledge in BBQs, heating and cooling, and patio furniture, you can trust our team to provide expert advice, quality assembly and installation. Get in touch with us today!
Skip to content
