5 Reasons to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

Creating an energy-efficient home isn't easy. You'll have to conduct an energy audit, make the necessary upgrades and repairs, and ultimately pay attention to your energy usage. If you're willing to make the necessary commitment, though, you'll find it's well worth it in the long run. Here are five reasons to make your home more energy efficient.

#1) Saves Money

You'll save money with an energy-efficient home. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) says that homeowners will save an average of $75 by replacing their old light bulbs with ENERGY STAR-certified light bulbs. This is just one of the numerous energy-efficient upgrades available. The more upgrades you make, the more money you'll save on your home's energy expenses.

#2) Increases Home Value

Making your home more energy efficient will have a positive impact on its selling value. Research shows that energy-efficient homes in certain areas of the United States are worth up to 6% more than non-energy-efficient counterparts of the same type. Buyers are willing to pay more for energy-efficient homes because they will save money on energy expenses.

#3) Creates New Jobs

Embracing energy efficiency also has a positive impact on the job market. As demand for energy-efficient home upgrades rises, new jobs open up. Energy-efficient appliances, for instance, must be manufactured and installed. Solar panels must also be manufactured and installed. By making your home more energy efficient, you'll create new jobs that promote a healthy economy.

#4) Good for the Environment

There are environmental benefits associated with an energy-efficient home as well. In recent years, homeowners have become more aware of their energy consumption due to the detrimental effects of activities like coal-burning power generation. Such practices release harmful carbon emissions and particulate matter into the atmosphere, contributing to health hazards like cancer, heart disease, lung disease and neurological problems. By reducing energy consumption through efficiency upgrades, homeowners contribute to a healthier environment for all.

#5) It's the Future

Energy-efficient homes are not just a trend; they represent the future of sustainable living. There's a growing push toward greater energy efficiency in both commercial and residential spaces. You can go ahead and make the switch by upgrading your home so that it's more energy efficient. Energy efficiency is here to stay -- and it will only become more prevalent in the years to come. Along with the ability to save money, increase your home's value, create new jobs and improve the environment, this is just one more reason to make your home more energy efficient.