energy

7 Great Ways to Make Your House a Green Home

Global climate change is an ever-present threat, so it’s important that everyone do their duty to fight it. One way is to live in a greener home.

Going green and implementing a sustainable lifestyle is one of the best ways to participate in the fight against climate change. Not only does going green help the planet, but it also helps your health and wallet.

If you’re eager to make your home more sustainable, check out these nine ways to create a green home.

1. Get a Compost Bin

A compost bin is an area where you recycle organic waste. Over time, organic waste breaks down into a nutrient-rich substance. This waste ranges from food scraps to leaves.

Composting is great for the environment, as it reduces the number of materials that end up in garbage dumps. But it’s also great for gardeners because it provides nutritious fertilizer for the soil.

2. Go Solar

Going solar means replacing traditional electric setups with solar energy. Solar panels absorb sunlight and convert it into energy, which powers your home at a much lower cost.

The average solar home gives homeowners up to 60% in energy savings. While there’s an initial financial investment to set up a solar home, the long-term savings are substantial. 

Since you’re using renewable energy, going solar greatly benefits the environment. Search “solar providers near me” to get local rates and find the best provider.

3. Grow Your Own Food

Growing your own food is both sustainable and healthy for you and the Earth. Gardens provide healthier soil for your local environment and provide pesticide-free organic food—all within your own backyard. 

Foregoing grocery store food also lowers your carbon footprint. Food delivered to grocery stores is often covered in chemicals and pesticides, making your home-grown food a much better alternative.

4. Stick To a Recycling Plan

Set yourself up for recycling success by adding easily accessible recycling bins throughout your home. With a designated area for recyclables, you’re more likely to make it a habit.

If you’re unsure how your neighborhood handles recyclables, make sure to find out. Some areas have stricter ordinances about what they consider recyclable.

5. Reconsider Your Appliances

Some appliances are more eco-friendly than others based on how much energy they use. Opting for energy-efficient appliances helps make your home more sustainable.

Additionally, consider more sustainable appliance habits, such as washing dishes and clothing in cold water. If possible, forego washer appliances altogether and wash your items by hand.

6. Use LED Light Bulbs

LED light bulbs use far less energy than regular light bulbs, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions. These light bulbs also last longer and offer fewer heating hazards. If you enjoy multi-colored lights, LED bulbs offer many more color options. Save more energy by adding solar post lights in your outdoor spaces. You can get two benefits: save on energy bills and installation and improve the safety and security of your property.

7. Get a Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats are environmentally friendly because they prevent you from wasting energy. These thermostats are programmed to turn off and on when necessary. Plus, programmable thermostats are much easier to deal with since you don’t have to adjust it manually.

Get a Green Home With Ease

Whether you use all of these tips or just a few, setting up a green home is a rewarding experience. Sustainable living is also notably cost-effective and time-efficient, so there’s no reason not to do it.

If you’re interested in more eco-friendly insights, browse around the rest of our blog. We write about green energy insights, green travel tips, and more.

Clay Miller
the authorClay Miller
I am the creator/writer of Ways2GoGreen.com and Ways2GoGreenBlog.com. I'm an advocate for oceans, beaches, state parks. I enjoy all things outdoors (e.g. running, golf, gardening, hiking, etc.) I am a graduate of the University of Kentucky (Go Wildcats!!). I'm also a huge fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers. I was born and raised in the beautiful state of Kentucky.