Earth Day may be over, but that doesn’t mean you should stop thinking about ways to lessen your impact. Renewable energy is an important concept that becomes more and more vital as time goes on and valuable resources become depleted.

Instead of relying on fossil fuels like natural gas, oil and coal, which will eventually run out, switching to renewable sources like sun, wind and water becomes crucial for future generations. But why wait? There are things you can do right now to make your home more sustainable to minimize your carbon footprint –many of which offer rebates and tax credits.


Solar Panels

Solar is simultaneously the easiest and hardest way to go green. Depending where you live and how sunny a climate it is determines whether it makes sense for you or not, but photovoltaic panels can store quite a bit of energy for a rainy day. They do come with a hefty price tag up front in terms of installation costs that vary by efficiency and the size of your roof, the average being $4.72/watt. But don’t let this deter you!

Studies have found that the average solar homeowner will save about $20,000 over 20 years from going solar, sometimes even more in extremely sunny states like California and Hawaii. It’s also possible to rent solar panels. One of the largest renters is Citizenrē REnU, which offers 1, 5 or 25-year contracts that include installation.

High Efficiency Toilets

Using on average 20% less water to do the same job and less toxic chemicals, some high efficiency toilets are even completely waterless. Technologies like pressure-assist, gravity flush and dual flush to whisk away waste using as little water as possible.

As water and sewer costs keep rising, the advantages of low flow toilets in conserving water and reducing the demand on local water treatment facilities is pretty obvious over the lifecycle of the product. Other high efficiency appliances are catching on too like washing machines.

Electric Fireplaces

100% energy efficient, electric fireplaces are a great way to supplement your home heating, while reducing your monthly electric bill. By focusing the energy just in the areas you use the most, you’ll stay warm without sacrificing comfort.

Requiring just a standard 120 v. household outlet to operate and provide beautiful ambiance, unlike gas and wood fireplaces, you’re not wasting any valuable natural resources.