Eco Homes

An eco home is one that uses less of the earth's resources to function. This can often be incorporated into an existing home with a little forethought from the owner. For instance when it comes time to repaint, how about using those paints that emit less or no toxic fumes to poison the atmosphere? Adding a solar panel may cost quite a bit initially, but it will save your pocket in the long run.

Installing air-conditioning may not seem eco-friendly, but if you make sure you are getting the right one for the size of your home and for your climate, then that will certainly help. Then again, if you add or enlarge windows to catch the cross breeze in your area you may not need to run that air conditioner nearly so much.

Having an eco home is not all about the actual home either. Adding a rainwater tank is all part of an eco home. Using the rain that runs off your roof makes a great deal of sense. If you also install pipes to recycle your grey water then your home will certainly start to fit the eco style of living.

The garden can also come under scrutiny. We all know that lawns and gardens take a lot of water to maintain. By reducing your lawn area and using only those plants that are drought tolerant your water usage can be cut back a great deal.

Mel writes about various topics on eco homes and sustainable living.