Whether building new construction or retrofitting an existing residence, implementing sustainable elements has several benefits for the environment and helps homeowners save energy and money.

Discuss these ten eco-friendly design choices with clients so they can reap energy-efficiency benefits. 

1. Passive Cooling

Passive cooling helps regulate temperature comfort without utilizing a home's HVAC system. 

Some passive cooling elements might include shading to prevent heat gain from direct sunlight, skylights for enhanced ventilation and building homes with thicker walls to absorb more heat. 

2. Energy-Efficient Appliances

Opting for energy-efficient appliances reduces power consumption and saves money on utility bills. 

For example, homeowners who install Energy Star-certified washer and dryer units use less power and water over the product's lifetime than conventional brands. In fact, heat-pump dryers use 20%-60% less energy than standard models. 

Likewise, clients can save $260 over 12 years by switching to an Energy Star-certified refrigerator.

3. Sufficient Insulation

Applying sufficient insulation is one of the most effective ways to seal a home from drafts and diminish the need to run the thermostat. 

Homeowners can lower their energy consumption by 11% and save 15% on heating and cooling their homes when they add insulation to their attics, crawl spaces, basements and walls.

4. Low-VOC Paint

A fresh coat of paint changes a home's entire look and feel. However, many products include volatile organic compounds (VOCs), significantly reducing indoor air quality and posing severe health risks. 

Studies show that VOC levels may reach 1,000 times higher inside than outside after painting your home.

Suggest low-VOC paints to prevent respiratory conditions and harmful toxins from entering the environment.

5. Wood Materials

Using sustainable materials is a wise eco-friendly design choice for any home. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), wood accounted for 6.2% of the total landfilled waste in 2018. Therefore, sustainable options could include reclaimed wood, bamboo or cork.

Wood shingles are another sustainable option, usually manufactured using cedar that gets replanted as compost for future tree growth. Wood shingles are also 100% recyclable, with zero risk of generating harmful chemical runoff during storms. 

6. Programmable Thermostat

Programmable thermostats can save homeowners 8% on heating and cooling, equal to $50 annually. 

Installing a smart thermostat allows them to regulate their home's temperature for personal comfort and can even read a home's occupancy. For example, these advanced thermostat technologies learn clients' preferences and kick on only when they return home from work or errands. 

7. Upgraded Windows

Window product types and placement can reduce heat loss and drafts. For instance, double-pane windows provide an extra barrier and can save 21%-31% of thermostat costs. 

Electrochromic windows are another green technology that reduces 39.5% of energy use compared to conventional windows and is 26.2% more efficient than Venetian blinds.

Electrochromic windows use a complex spectral glaze that acclimates to and controls solar penetration indoors throughout the day. Although costly at $50 to $150 per square foot, homeowners will immediately see savings on utility bills.

8. Water-Conserving Fixtures

Upgraded eco-friendly fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom can help conserve water in your client's home. Replace sink faucets and showerheads with low-flow fixtures that use less water with the same pressure as standard models.

Installing a WaterSense-label toilet is another smart design choice to make a home more eco-friendly. Modern commodes use 1.28 gallons per flush — 20% less than conventional models — and save homeowners almost $140 per year.

9. Solar Panels

Residential solar panel systems have grown in popularity throughout the last decade. According to one Pew Research Center study, 8% of homeowners have installed solar panels already, while 39% have seriously considered them for their homes. 

The recent passing of the Inflation Reduction Act is sure to ramp up panel system installations in the future. Under the new legislation, homeowners could be eligible for a 30% solar tax credit to purchase and install panels until the end of 2023. 

10. Native Landscaping

Urban sprawl is estimated to have eradicated 150 million acres of habitat, while the 40 million acres converted to monoculture landscaping are no longer suitable for backyard wildlife. 

Opting for native landscaping can better support regional birds, insects, and animals and requires little maintenance. Because plants have adapted to the local environmental conditions, they require less irrigation, pesticides, and fertilizers.

Additionally, native flora will entice primary pollinators to return to the backyard. 

Live Greener With These Eco-Friendly Design Choices

Homeowners interested in sustainable living should consider these top 10 eco-friendly design choices for their homes. Adding various green elements can reduce their carbon footprint and ensure optimal indoor health and safety.

Author: Jane Marsh