<p><i>There are several different ways that you can make your home more eco-friendly without spending an exorbitant amount of money. As an added bonus, many of the green features that you can add to your home during a remodeling project will enable you to reduce your energy bills. In other words, you will be able to stretch your budget further, while also having a positive impact on the environment.</i></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-8023" alt="5 Green Ideas to Include in Your Home Remodel" src="https://medusamagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/5-Green-Ideas-to-Include-in-Your-Home-Remodel.jpg" width="640" height="427" /></p>
<p>Here are five ways to help create an eco-friendly home:</p>
<h3><b>1. Solar Panels &#8211;</b></h3>
<p>Although solar panels do require an initial investment that can be quite expensive, it is important to consider how much money you will save in the long run. However, if you are unable to completely convert your home to solar power, you can still reduce your energy consumption by attaching solar panels to run the outdoor lighting or pool heater in your backyard. Keep in mind that even occasional usage will end up saving you money, and it will also be a step in the right direction for anyone who cares about the environment.</p>
<h3><b>2. Programmable Thermostat &#8211;</b></h3>
<p>Most people think of a programmable thermostat as simply a way to save money, but they also provide a solid eco-friendly benefit. After all, if you program it to always turn your air conditioner and heater off when they reach a certain temperature, you will be able to reduce your electric and gas usage.</p>
<h3><b>3. Low-Flow Shower Head &#8211;</b></h3>
<p>Water is an essential component of life, but most people waste several gallons of it every day. In fact, the typical 10-minute shower uses approximately 60 gallons of water, but it is not necessary to utilize this much water in order to get clean. Instead, you can install a low-flow shower head to cut your water consumption in half. This one simple item can typically be purchased for as low as $8, and it will definitely have a big impact on your water bill.</p>
<h3><b>4. Switch Your Light Bulbs &#8211;</b></h3>
<p>Simply swapping out all of your standard light bulbs with a CFL or LED replacement will reduce your electric bill and help the environment. If you need assistance paying for your new light bulbs, you should look into local replacement programs. For example, Duke Energy provides free CFL light bulbs to all of the customers in their region who request them.</p>
<h3><b>5. Energy Star Rated Appliances &#8211;</b></h3>
<p>If you are in the market for new appliances, you should definitely make sure that you purchase items that come with an energy star rating sticker. These appliances have been made specifically with the environment and your energy costs in mind, and they make the perfect addition to any eco-friendly home. As an added bonus, you can sometimes get energy star rebates from your local utility company.</p>
<p>Making the switch to a more eco-friendly home will require an initial investment of time and money, but you will quickly be reimbursed via your energy savings. Additionally, you will be able to rest easier at night with the knowledge that you have taken several proactive steps to reduce your personal footprint of utility usage for the planet.</p>
<p>The author knows how important updating is to increasing the value of your home. Sometimes a company like <span style="text-decoration: underline">PDX Renovations</span> can get involved toward making improvements for a faster sale, and environmental considerations are certainly something to be considered to attract today&#8217;s savvy buyers.</p>
<p>Photo credit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/86530412@N02/8259626811/</p>