There is a growing trend toward green homes, while home owners are aware of the environmental benefits, many are also discovering the long-term cost savings to be made by implementing environmentally friendly products into your home.

Over the decades to come, green construction should reduce energy consumption and help homeowners live a more sustainable lifestyle. With many new builds home owners are incorporating not only solar panels but also things like low-flow toilets, water-saving showerheads and even geothermal heating and cooling. Home Renovations Sydney

That is all fine for the buyers of brand-new houses, but what can you do if you love the home you have but hate its carbon footprint? You do not have to put solar panels on the roof or switch to geothermal heating, although there is indeed nothing wrong with taking those steps. If you want to make your current home greener, here are some practical upgrades you can make right now.

Install a Compost Bin

Adding a compost bin to your backyard is a great way to go green, and a perfect solution to your food waste dilemma. Instead of throwing your leftover salad greens and food waste in the bin, you can turn your unwanted items into a steady stream of fresh compost.

If you do not have room in your backyard, you can always purchase a small kitchen size composter. These tiny composters are easy to use, small in size and the perfect choice for small homes and even apartments.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

If your current appliances have seen better days, shop for new ones with energy efficiency in mind. Energy efficient appliances can save you a lot of money, but they are good for the environment as well.

Highly energy efficient appliances may cost a bit more up front, but you can quickly make that money back through lower operating costs.

Opt for a Low-Flow Bathroom

If you are renovating your bathroom, think about adding a low-flow toilet or water-saving showerhead. These low-flow bathroom fixtures use far less water than their traditional counterparts, and they operate just as well.

There are many different choices in low-flow bathroom products, so shop around carefully and choose the ones that best meet your needs and the needs of your family. This simple upgrade could save you a lot of money and help protect the environment.

Upgrade to LED Lighting

If you are looking for a simple upgrade that will save you money and reduce your carbon footprint, you cannot go wrong with LED light bulbs. LED lighting is far more efficient than even the best compact fluorescents, and many times better than the old incandescent light bulbs.

Take a look around your home, note the wattages of each light bulb, then start shopping for LED equivalents. You can find LED light bulbs in all shapes and sizes, so you should be able to upgrade every light in your home. Residential Custom Home Builders

Cut Your Water Consumption with a Water Tank

A water tank is an excellent addition to your backyard, and a wonderful way to redirect runoff and use it for something good. You can use the rainwater you collect to water your plants or give it to your pets.

A water tank can also help you capture water that would otherwise flood your yard and damage your property.

You do not have to give up your current home to live a greener lifestyle. With a few simple upgrades, you can turn your current home into a greener and more environmentally friendly place – and save money in the process.