4 MONEY-SAVING GREEN UPGRADES
Updated: Apr 4, 2020
Going green is great for the environment, but that’s not the only benefit. When you make green upgrades in your home, it can also lead to some major monthly savings.
Solar panels: The upfront cost is big, but the long-term savings are huge. Solar panels will cost several thousand dollars to install, but ongoing maintenance costs are very low, and a typical system could save you hundreds of dollars per year. You can even sell your surplus electricity. To understand more about how solar works in Washington and incentives to install, Solar Washington has all the facts.
Wood stove: Wood-burning stoves are relatively inexpensive, and though the yearly savings aren’t as dramatic (about 10% on heating bills), it adds up over the long run. In Washington state, wood smoke can be a pollution source, so new stoves must be certified for our emission standards. If you are thinking of installing a wood-burning stove, Northwest Clean Air Agency provides all the information you need.
Insulation: There’s a good chance your insulation isn’t very efficient, especially in older homes. A home can lose 35% of its heat through the walls and windows are a source of 25% of a home’s heat loss. Have your home inspected to determine if you need to add insulation to reduce your heating bills.
Rain barrels: Rain barrels are extremely inexpensive, and provide gallons of free water to use when you wash your car or water your garden. Home Depot provides a good overview on set up and maintenance of a rain barrel system.