Image by pmorgan via FlickrBy Gary R.People are more interested in "Going Green" than ever since it is not only the best way to protect the planet but also a great way to save money. Technology continues to create new and better ways of using less energy, particularly when it comes to energy use in the home. While people are taking advantage of some of the energy-saving products that have become available to them, there are some that are more popular than others.
Not only are consumers looking for more energy-saving solutions but retailers, manufacturers, and home builders are also seeking out ways to answer the demand. These are ten of the top green housing trends today:
1. Solar water heaters are a great way to save energy and money even if you don't have a solar powered home. Traditional water heaters are responsible for a lot of the energy requirements of a normal household. The more family members there are, the more you can save on energy use with a solar powered water heater that works from solar panels installed on the roof.
2. Purchasing sustainable wood products is becoming a more important consideration. Those items such as furniture and flooring that are made from sustainable wood means that they don't take away from the wood preserved for future generations. These products are replaced with new tree growth as they are taken from a reserve.
3. Energy Star Compliant products are increasing in number and affordability. While there are still those people that think you have to purchase the top-of-the-line products to get those that are most energy efficient, this is no longer true. When it's time to replace an old refrigerator, room air conditioner, or range, look for those that are Energy Star compliant and you will find great choices in all price ranges that will use a lot less energy.
4. Low-Emittance windows and doors are some of the most effective housing trends builders are using today. They provide your home with natural light but block UV from the sun that is responsible for heating it up during the summer months. These windows and doors have different ratings according to what percentage of the sun's rays they block.
5. There's more to the copper roofs that are sprouting up on homes everywhere than just a tool for providing unique looks. Copper is also very resilient and can withstand harsh weather conditions so that roofs don't have to be replaced. In the event that one is removed, copper can always be recycled and never left in the landfill.
6. Building smaller homes is one way that home builders are meeting the demand for more energy efficiency. This reduces the needs for materials and for the energy needed to maintain them.
7. People are also more concerned with the availability of clean water and are finding more ways to conserve water. Low-flow toilets, fixtures and showerheads are designed to use less water.
8. Insulation in the attic of the home isn't a new idea but many of the products used today are. Most of the heat a home loses is through the roof and some of the new types of insulation can prevent almost all of the energy loss that normally occurs.
9. Hard wood floors aren't always considered when going green but they are a great replacement for carpets that are full of chemicals and which must be replaced after a number of years. Any natural, hard substance such as stone, bamboo, or natural linoleum is a better choice because it is safe to your family and is sustainable.
10. Solar energy from the use of solar panels has been around for a long time. Today, it is a more convenient alternative energy source that is cost effective. Solar energy systems can be used in combination with your regular fuel source to ensure you are never without power.
As the demand for green products continues to grow, the quality and selection are certain to produce many new housing trends that will produce energy efficiency in the future.
And finally, if you are interested in more Housing Trends, please check out http://www.housingtrends.org
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