Tips for a Green Home

A home can be built green, or green features can be added later. Green features can be used when we:

• site and design the home;
• build or renovate;
• select materials and appliances;
• clean and maintain the home; and
• use water and energy.

Homes can be sited and designed to take advantage of the benefits of sunlight. Taking advantage of sunlight can help reduce energy use and increase the home's natural light. Homes also can be built in areas that are not prone to disasters, such as flooding.

Homes can be designed, built, and renovated with natural or mechanical ventilation systems. These can filter and bring fresh air inside and vent stale air outside. These systems can also help prevent moisture problems that can cause mold or mildew. Mold can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people.

Some building materials release harmful gases that can cause cancer and respiratory illnesses such as asthma. Use building materials with zero or low emissions to improve indoor air quality. One example is insulation made from soybeans, recycled paper, or even old denim.

Many local and state governments, utility companies, and other entities across the country offer rebates, tax breaks, and other incentives for adding eco-friendly elements to homes.

Green Tips

• Conserve water: Use products with the WaterSense label. Adopt the following water-saving practices:
  • Fix That Leak! (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [EPA])
  • Shower Power (EPA)
  • Turn It Off! (EPA)
  • Water Wisely (EPA)
  • Make It a Full Load (EPA)
  • Don't Flush Your Money Down the Drain! (EPA)
• Reduce pesticide use: Use integrated pest management (IPM) to control pests. IPM eliminates the food, water, and shelter sources that pests need to survive. It is effective, costs less, and is less harmful to people, animals, and the environment. (EPA)
• Use less energy: Use ENERGY STAR® appliances, WaterSense products, and fluorescent lightbulbs. Turn off appliances when not in use. (U.S. Department of Energy Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy )
• Recycle: Reuse and recycle materials to conserve resources and manage materials and waste. (EPA)  

Important Links

• Green tips by room
• Green tips for the home (EPA)
• Cost-efficient and environmentally friendly solutions and resources for landscaping   (EPA)
• Consumer information to find and evaluate green products and services (EPA)
• The Green Home Guide (US Green Building Council)