Sustainability is a journey, and every small change you make can contribute to a more sustainable future for your family and your community. Start with the practices that align with your values and gradually incorporate more sustainable habits into your daily life. Becoming more sustainable at home is not only good for the environment but may help save you money in the long run.
One of the best ways to reduce energy consumption in your home is to switch to energy-efficient appliances. The energy consumed by heating and cooling systems can accounts for a staggering 40-60% in North American homes. If nothing changes, the world is on track to triple its energy consumption by the year 2050. By implementing sustainable, energy-efficient practices and technologies, we can collectively help reduce the amount of energy consumed and the CO2 emitted into the air.
Here are a few tips to create a more sustainable at home:
- Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances:
- Replace old, inefficient appliances with energy-efficient models.
- Research energy-efficiency ratings and review ENERGY STAR® labels when shopping for large appliances like heating and cooling systems, refrigerators, dishwashers, and washers/dryers
- Convert to an all-electric heat pump from fossil fuel burning heating system.
- Look for the “Inverter” mark as a proxy for highly efficient, year-round comfort, even in the harshest of climates.
- Switch from a gas dryer to an electric dryer.
Daikin FIT Inverter System
- Focus on Energy Efficiency in your Home:
- Switch to LED or energy-efficient light bulbs
- Seal gaps and insulate your home to prevent drafts.
- Invest in a smart, connected thermostat for optimum control and scheduling.
- Consider installing solar panels on your roof and complementing with battery storage.
- Use solar-powered outdoor lights and chargers.
- Upgrade to double-glazed or energy-efficient windows.
Daikin One+ Smart Thermostat
- Mindful Energy Use:
- Turn off lights when leaving a room.
- Set your computer to "sleep" mode.
- Use natural light during the day.
- Unplug electronics and chargers when not in use.
- Use curtains or blinds to help keep your indoor comfortable.
- Wash clothes with cold water.
- Use a microwave or toaster oven for small meals.
- Use ceiling fans only when rooms are occupied.
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:
- Commit to recycling paper, plastic, glass, and metal.
- Purchase products made from recycled materials.
- Upcycle old items into something new.
- Donate or sell items you no longer need instead of throwing them away.
- Sustainable Gardening:
- Plant native species in your garden.
- Use organic gardening practices.
- Compost garden waste.
- Use drought-resistant plants in your yard.
- Avoid chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
- Plant trees strategically to provide shade and reduce cooling costs.
Daikin Pollinator Garden at Daikin Texas Technology Park, Waller, TX
- Reduce Water Usage:
- Fix leaky faucets or pipes.
- Install low-flow showerheads and toilets.
- Collect rainwater for outdoor use.
- Water plants in the early morning or late evening to reduce evaporation.
- Install a rain barrel to collect water for your garden, irrigation, etc.
- Utilize dishwashers and front-loading washing machines.
- Sustainable Transportation:
- Use public transportation, bike, or walk when possible.
- Carpool or rideshare.
- Invest in an electric or hybrid vehicle.
- Sustainable Shopping:
- Bring reusable shopping bags.
- Choose products with minimal packaging.
- Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste.
- Purchase second-hand or thrifted items.
- Buy local to help reduce carbon emission associated with transportation.
- Responsible Disposal:
- Dispose of hazardous waste at designated facilities.
- Recycle old electronics and batteries.
- Properly dispose of expired medications.
- Ask your HVAC contractor to recover and recycle refrigerants from your end-of-life HVAC equipment or refrigerators.
- Energy Audit:
- Hire a professional to conduct a home energy audit to identify areas for improvement.
- Implement recommended changes.
- Track and reduce your energy consumption.
Contact Your Daikin Comfort Pro Today
