Have you ever considered buying a property that’s geared towards renewable energy? If you’re into saving the planet (and your wallet), it’s something to look into. If you’re like most environmentally aware people, you’re always looking for ways to make your home more eco-friendly. But did you know that you can find properties that are more conducive to renewable energy than others?
When it comes to powering your home with renewable energy, there are a few key features to look for in a property. Here are some of the features to keep an eye out for when shopping for your dream home:
Stay on the Grid
It’s a common misconception that being environmentally friendly and sustainable requires going “off the grid.” But in reality, most sustainable practices require a connection to the grid.
For example, solar power is one of the most popular forms of renewable energy, but to harness solar energy, a property must be connected to the grid. The same is true for wind power. While it’s possible to generate enough electricity to power a small home or cabin off the grid, it’s not very practical or cost-effective. And in many cases, it requires more fuel and generates more emissions than being connected to the grid.
So being environmentally friendly doesn’t necessarily mean disconnecting from the grid. In fact, in most cases, it’s quite the opposite.
Go for Green
When you’re looking at a property, it’s important to consider the materials that were used in its construction. Many so-called “environmentally friendly” buildings are made with materials that are damaging to the environment.
For example, many manufacturers use chemicals to treat wood for termites, which can leach into the ground and contaminate soil and water. Green building materials, on the other hand, are made from sustainable resources and are designed to minimize environmental impact.
For instance, bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource that can be used for flooring, cabinetry, and furniture. Hempcrete is a mixture of hemp hurds and lime that can be used as a sustainable alternative to concrete. And there are many more options available for environmentally conscious builders.
So when you’re considering a property, be sure to ask about the materials that were used in its construction. It could make all the difference in its impact on the environment.
Water is Important
When you’re considering buying a house, it’s important to inquire about the property’s water conservation efforts. Many landlords and property managers have adopted water-saving devices to reduce their monthly water bills and be more environmentally friendly.
Low-flow showerheads, for example, can save a family of four up to 2,900 gallons of water per year. Dual flush toilets can save even more – up to 6,000 gallons annually. But it’s not just the fixtures that make a difference. Landscaping plays a role, too. Properties that use native plants require less watering than those that have traditional lawns.
These are all great ways to conserve water. However, you also want to make sure that the property owner is actually doing these things to save water and not just using them as a marketing ploy. Ask about their monthly water bills and see if there has been a decrease since they adopted these conservation measures.
By inquiring about the water conservation efforts that have been put in place, you can get a good sense of how eco-friendly the property is.
Where to Face Best
Most people think that the only way to tell if a property is environmentally friendly is to look for solar panels or wind turbines. However, the orientation of the property can also be a good indicator of its environmental friendliness.
A south-facing property will receive more sunlight than a north-facing one, making it easier to heat in the winter. Likewise, an east-facing property will be cooler in the summer, thanks to the shade provided by the morning sun. Ultimately, the best orientation for your new property depends on your specific needs and preferences. However, orienting your home to take advantage of natural sunlight is generally considered to be more environmentally friendly.
Properties that are well-oriented to take advantage of natural heating and cooling will require less energy to maintain comfortable temperatures, making them more environmentally friendly.
Is it Hot or Cold?
Before you shop for a new home, it’s important to consider the local climate. After all, you want your home to be as energy-efficient as possible.
Depending on where you live, there are different things to look for if a home is more energy efficient and reduces your carbon footprint. For example, if you live in a hot climate, you might want to look into solar power or other ways to reduce your reliance on air conditioning. Alternatively, if you live in a cold climate, you might want to invest in insulation or a pellet stove.
By taking the time to understand your local climate, you can make sure that any changes you make to your property are going to be effective in reducing your impact on the environment.
Benefits Outside the Obvious
For many prospective homeowners, finding ways to save energy and reduce their carbon footprint has recently become a top priority. One way to accomplish both of these goals is to install and rely on renewable energy sources.
However, the up-front cost of these systems can be prohibitive for some. Fortunately, many utility companies offer incentives for customers who install renewable energy systems. These incentives can vary widely, but they may include things like discounts on installation costs or rebates for the purchase of certain types of equipment. Some utility companies also offer special rates for energy produced by renewable sources. By taking advantage of these incentives, you can save money on your initial investment and make your property more environmentally friendly.
It pays to do your research and find out if your local utility company offers any programs that could make renewable energy more affordable. You may be surprised at how easy it is to go green and save money at the same time. So before making a purchase, make sure to ask around and find out about any existing incentives you can get.
Conclusion
There are many things to look for if you’re interested in finding an environmentally friendly property. From solar panels and wind turbines to water conservation efforts and energy-efficient appliances, there are many ways to make your new home more eco-friendly. By doing your research and taking advantage of available incentives, you can save money and help reduce your impact on the environment. So if you’re looking for a new home that’s kind to the planet, keep these things in mind during your search.
Leave a comment