We've All Heard Often Enough That It's Time To

Despite all the public knowledge about the importance of sustainable and renewable building practices, there's still a lot of resistance to the idea of "going green". In nearly all cases, you'll make up any additional cost over the course of a few years. Additional cost: $0 Savings: Lots on your electric billThe same applies to indoor spaces, by the way.Obviously, it's not financially feasible for most of us to completely gut our homes and replace them with totally green and environmentally responsible buildings, but that's not the only way to accomplish the goal of living a greener life. According to the Department of Energy, you can save up to $600 a year in energy costs by replacing your current appliances with Energy Star rated appliances. The greatest water loss from pools and spas is through evaporation, so an installed, convenient and easy to use cover can help reduce your water use. Those include adding skylights, installing a rainwater collection system and retrofitting struts for hurricane protection. A solar pool heating system can virtually eliminate the $500-$1,500 per year that it costs to heat an outdoor swimming pool in Florida. One of the biggest reasons - the notion that it's more expensive to use sustainable materials and consider environmental issues. Additional cost: Depends on the materials chosen. We're depleting the Earth's resources in record amounts, and it's becoming more and more clear that we need to start thinking in terms of protecting and preserving the Earth and her resources when we build. When you add that to ongoing savings of up to 85% per year, you'll see that going solar really makes sense. In many cases, the greener alternative costs no more than or even less than the traditional option. Replacing Hot Water HeaterWhen it's time to replace your hot water heater, there are a number of energy-friendly alternatives to traditional hot water tank heaters.Is it time for a new look in your kitchen? Look for the Energy Star whenever you buy appliances. You'll also see a bonus when it's time to sell - kitchen upgrades and new, energy efficient appliances are a huge selling point with home buyers. In addition, many Florida utility companies offer incentive programs to encourage the use of solar hot water heaters.. Added bonus - you'll reduce the wear and tear on your clothes from over-drying. Like any other appliance, if you shop for the Energy Star, you'll be buying a hot water heater that is highly rated for efficiency. Adding a pool or spa.A light-colored roof will serve the same effect as light colored exterior walls. Light colored paint costs no more than any other color, but it can significantly reduce the amount of energy you'll use to cool your home because it reflects heat instead of absorbing it. If you're not ready to make the plunge to solar, there are low energy electric and gas alternatives. Make it a low flow shower head to reduce water usage, and add a low flow toilet to reduce water use even further. Additional Cost: comparable to conventional fixturesSavings: Thousands of gallons of water annually New roof or roof repairs. Bathroom RenovationsMultiple shower heads at different levels may be temptingly luxurious, but you get points as a greener home if each shower in your home has one shower head. If you choose deciduous trees, you'll have shade in the summer months and sunlight during the winter months. Check with salvage companies nearby to find out what's available. Depending on the program, you could receive a credit of up to $450 on your electric bill to offset the original.