There’s a common misconception that eco-friendly products cost more. In fact, a study by Southern Cross University found that the majority of consumers believe that going green would be more expensive. Although you may spend more in the beginning to switch to sustainable products, you can actually save money in the long run. Find out how you can enjoy savings while helping the environment in three ways:
Go Solar
There are various ways you can use solar power to save money. The most common is to install solar panels to your house. The good part about it is that it’s designed to work in all climates. On the other hand, your roof may not be suitable for panels. The best way to go about it is to contact a professional so they can check the structure of your house and install the panels. If you’re wary of the cost for the panels, don’t forget to check out the federal and state incentives first. There are various grants created to make sustainable living more affordable to homeowners.
You can also use a home battery, so your house has an additional source of power. This is great if you live in an area where there are frequent outages. They’re specifically designed to switch off from the grid during peak hours to maximize savings.
Shop Smart
When the time comes that you have to buy or replace an appliance, make sure to research first. It will make your shopping faster because you’ll know what to get. It will also ensure that you’re buying a quality product. Most of all, it can help you get savings. Whether it’s a dryer or a water heater, you can reduce your electricity bills by using an Energy Star certified product. Also, if you are a Texas resident it’s important to choose a trustworthy electricity provider such as New Power Texas, which can help you cut down on bill surprises. Some models may cost more than others without the certification. But these products use less energy, so they’re a better investment. They can help you save up to $575 in utility bills.
Before you buy a product, you can search for rebates that are available for your area. You can also look for products that use renewable energy so you can get tax credits.
Switch to an Electric Car
If you’re thinking of buying or replacing your old car, why not choose an electric car? Some models may be more expensive than their gas-powered counterparts. But you can buy a second-hand vehicle or apply for tax credits to reduce the cost. Besides, electric cars actually cost half as much to drive than gasoline cars. You may spend more when purchasing, but you’re bound to save a lot more money in the long run.
If you’re worried about running out of power before reaching your destination, search for charging stations in your area. There are already thousands of stations across the country with plans to add more.
Don’t let stereotypes and old ideas get in the way of going green. As time goes by, the prices of eco-friendly products go down. What may have been pricey and unattainable 10 years ago is more affordable now. Do your research so you can save money and the environment at the same time.