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When upgrading your home, several sustainability considerations should be taken into account, yet significant home renovations and upfront costs can deter homeowners from making those changes.
However, sustainable home improvements can have a positive impact on both the environment and your ROI as a homeowner, enhancing your home’s quality and your financial well-being.
How to measure ROI for eco-friendly home improvements
Your home’s ROI is measured against your initial investment and what improvements affect it. Factors such as energy savings, resale value and quality of life all impact the overall ROI. Generally, you can determine a numerical percentage value of ROI with this formula:
● ROI = (Net Profit / Improvement Cost) x 100
This formula can help you evaluate whether an upfront cost will lead to cost savings or an improved home value in the future, which will help you determine whether to make the upgrade.
When making eco-friendly upgrades, it’s also important to consider the ecological impact of the improvement in relation to the ROI. For example, buildings designed and certified as ENERGY STAR quality emit 35% fewer greenhouse gases than traditional buildings. Using less energy reduces your home’s carbon footprint and your bills. Energy reduction, even if not immediately apparent in cost savings, is crucial when determining your home’s eco-friendly improvements.
What are eco-friendly upgrades with the highest ROI?
Ultimately, each home improvement project should be a worthwhile investment that meets your needs and enhances your quality of life. The following seven eco-friendly improvements can yield a high ROI for a smarter and more sustainable home.
1. Insulated windows and doors
Windows and doors can have a significant impact on a home’s energy usage if properly insulated. ENERGY STAR-rated windows and exterior doors can reduce your home’s heating and cooling costs by minimizing drafts or heat transfer while reducing energy usage. Strong insulation — often built with multiple panes, durable frames and seals — improves your home’s energy efficiency and its comfort, which can also add to the resale value.
2. Energy-efficient garage doors
Your garage door can also have a notable impact on your home’s energy efficiency, depending on its insulation and sealing capabilities. Consider upgrading your garage door to one with a higher R-value for enhanced thermal protection qualities. Advanced garage door options perform better and last longer, even in extreme weather conditions and fluctuations. Investing in a more sustainable garage door can help improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce the need for frequent maintenance.
3. Solar panel installation
Installing solar panels on your roof can be a significant investment that ultimately saves you on energy bills while reducing your overall carbon footprint. The renewable energy source supplements traditional energy production that emits greenhouse gases. Solar panels on your home can also enhance its value, as homeowners increasingly seek clean energy in their daily lives.
Though not every resident has the ability to install solar panels on their roof due to cost, roof space or functionality, there are other options to incorporate solar power into your home. Consider community solar gardens where multiple households can benefit from solar energy, or place solar panels around your garden to provide shade while generating power.
4. High-efficiency HVAC systems
Your HVAC system is crucial for maintaining your home’s temperature and air quality, but it consumes a large amount of energy to do so. Upgrading your HVAC to a high-efficiency system will help reduce energy usage without compromising comfort. Some systems offer smart technology, which can incorporate your habits and desired comfort settings to automatically adjust to the ideal indoor air temperature and humidity levels.
Smart HVAC systems can also use predictive maintenance technology to help identify issues and prevent breakdowns from disrupting your home’s air quality. With an improved HVAC, you can contribute to a healthier environment and save on costly maintenance and energy bills.
5. Home insulation upgrades
Just as windows and doors can impact your home’s insulation and energy efficiency, adding or upgrading insulation in more exposed areas like attics and floors can improve your home’s energy usage. Sufficient insulation throughout your home can keep it cool during warm summers and trap heat during cold winters, helping you save on energy costs without frequent repairs. Opt for durable, sustainable insulation materials, including natural, plant-based or recycled options to reduce harmful emissions and increase your home’s value.
6. Water-saving fixtures
Investing in water-conscious fixtures can reduce water consumption and water utility costs. Like ENERGY STAR ratings, products and appliances labeled with WaterSense are certified to minimize water use and are more environmentally friendly than their competitors. Leaks can also be a source of higher water consumption, so it’s essential to monitor and address them as soon as possible. Smart technologies can help monitor and mitigate leaks and maintenance costs.
Smart systems can help minimize unnecessary water use across your home, including in your yard. Sprinklers can be equipped with technology that allows them to water lawns and gardens only when necessary, by sensing hydration levels and weather conditions.
7. LED lighting
Use LED lighting in your home because of its energy efficiency, durability and recyclability. LEDs last significantly longer than traditional light options and are made from durable, recyclable materials. The lights are also energy-efficient and don’t rely on toxic chemicals, making them ecologically friendly. Many commercially available LED lights come in various sizes and colour options, including some with remote control capabilities, allowing you to create different lighting effects to suit your home’s mood and decor.
LED lights can enhance your home’s overall appearance and value while lowering energy usage and reducing the harmful risks associated with traditional lighting sources.
Making smart, sustainable investments
You don’t have to sacrifice costs or comfort when making sustainable renovations. By investing in eco-friendly upgrades, you can experience a financial ROI as well as an overall enhanced quality of life. Invest in your future, starting at home.