When to Invest in Energy-Efficiency Upgrades for Your Home

Before signing up for solar panels or a geothermal heating and cooling system, work with a green consultant to make a plan and build a green team that’s specific to your home and your budget, including a home energy audit to identify and prioritize green projects.
Invest in well-designed energy efficient low-flush toilets and water-conserving (yet still power packed) showerheads.
Rethink your tank—a tankless water heater can cut costs by heating water only when needed.
When renovating, work with a green-focused construction company and contractor who can help ensure recycled or reclaimed materials and environmentally friendly products (including glues, paints & stains) are used wherever possible. Your home, your body, and the environment will thank you.
Go with an eco-friendly specialist for your landscaping and lawn maintenance who’s committed to using carcinogen-and pesticide-free solutions.
Go a step further with your eco-friendly ligwhting and upgrade to LED instead of compact fluorescent bulbs.
Maximize your home’s efficiency and minimize the environmental impact with smart window shade and lighting control systems that add beauty and energy savings wrapped in one.
Help another homeowner go green by salvaging, then donating your pre-renovation materials and appliances to organizations like Habitat for Humanity or Green Demolitions. Paying it forward benefits all involved—and feels good, too.