Living in Comox Valley properties for sale come with numerous benefits. For example, the gorgeous outdoor scenery and abundant natural resources. However, to preserve the beauty of the landscape it’s critical that as homeowners, we do our best to reduce our impact on the environment around us. One of the ways we can do this is by adopting sustainable practices in our homes. Simple tasks like mindful water consumption, buying locally and minimizing the use of energy-intensive appliances can make a huge difference. To help you make 2024 your most sustainable year yet, we are going to be going over some of the ways that you can alter your living habits to be more eco-friendly. Follow along below to learn more!
What Can You do to Make Your Home More Sustainable?
- Conserve Water Where Possible
Water is an important resource in the Comox Valley ecosystem. To ensure freshwater sources are abundant for the plants, animals, and people on Vancouver Island, homeowners must conserve where possible. This can be as simple as fixing leaks promptly, collecting rainwater for gardening, and using water-conserving appliances. Being conscious of how much water is consumed in your household helps to maintain the balance in the local ecosystem. Not only this, but it can also reduce your monthly water bill.
- Reduce the Use of Energy Intensive Appliances
Household appliances are to blame for the majority of our energy consumption. From refrigerators to HVAC systems, these appliances require tons of energy to operate. This in turn results in higher monthly bills and more strain on the local energy grid. To help reduce your bills and conserve energy, you may consider a few potential solutions. For example, lowering the temperature by 7-10 degrees (or increasing by 7-10 degrees in the summer) when you are away from home. You can also unplug small appliances when they are not in use to prevent phantom power consumption. Another option is to avoid the use of your dryer and hang your clothes outdoors when the weather permits.
- Windows, Doors, and Insulation
Windows, doors, and insulation play a big role in the energy efficiency of your home. Old doors and windows can allow outside air in, causing your HVAC system to work harder than it has to. The same thing applies to poor insulation. By updating your doors and windows and repairing old insulation you can greatly improve the energy efficiency of your house. This will also help cut the cost of your monthly heating and cooling bills.
Other Eco-Friendly Practices Suited for Comox Valley Properties for Sale
- Buy Locally
Having an eco-friendly household isn’t limited to the appliances and fixtures within. It’s also about the habits you keep. For instance, where you buy your food and other goods can have a massive impact on the environment. By purchasing locally made items, you reduce the distance that those goods need to travel. This in turn minimizes the amount of carbon released into the atmosphere and also supports local farmers/crafters. Check out the Comox Valley Farmers’ Market if you’re interested in supporting local – their website has info about all of the latest offerings!
- Minimize Waste and Practice Proper Recycling
Recycling and waste reduction are key practices in a sustainable household. By limiting your waste and sorting your recycling, you can make a difference in the local environment. Consider buying products with minimal packaging and composting food scraps where possible. If you choose to compost, you can reuse the food scraps to create nutrient-rich soil for gardening/farming! You may also want to create a recycling station in your home to make separating waste easier. Having separate bins for plastics, glass, and paper/cardboard is a great way to start!
- Choose Energy-Efficient Means of Transportation When You Can
Another habit that can change your home’s carbon footprint for the better, is choosing energy-efficient modes of transportation. Opting for eco-conscious transit means reducing local carbon emissions and eliminating/minimizing your spending on fuel. In Comox Valley, there are several ways to get around without a vehicle. For example, bussing, biking, and walking. If you absolutely must drive, try and coordinate carpools where appropriate.
Contact us Today!
With the new year underway, now is the time to get a move on your 2024 goals for home sustainability! If you are curious about how to make your home more eco-friendly, we encourage you to contact us today! Moreover, if you have any questions about Comox Valley properties for sale, be sure to reach out to us! We are excited to get your new year’s real estate goals on track. A home in the Comox Valley is a great lifetime investment. Be sure to check out our social media here, and return next month for more real estate-related content! We look forward to working with you soon.
