Home & Garden
Here's How To Make Your Bathroom More Green In New Jersey
An eco-friendly bathroom renovation has many benefits to the environment and your budget.
Green builds and renovations are a growing trend in New Jersey, and bathroom renovations can even boost your home's value. Get the best of both worlds with a new eco-friendly bathroom.
But don't worry, you don't have to splurge on an entire overhaul. These five easy upgrades can lessen your carbon footprint, instantly.
1. Get A Dual-Flush Toilet
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Did you know that toilets account for nearly 30% of indoor water consumption? Help remedy this issue by replacing old, inefficient toilets with WaterSense models. This can save a family of four about $2,000 per year in water bills, according to the EPA.
You might try a dual-flush toilet, which features two flushing volumes so that you only ever use what’s needed. If you really want to go eco-friendly and live off the grid, composting toilets require next to no water to operate.
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2. Swap Your Faucets
Like toilets, WaterSense faucets can reduce your bathroom sink’s water consumption by 30% without impacting its performance. Or, if you don’t want to replace the whole faucet, you can add on an aerator to cut down on consumption. And always be sure to fix leaks as soon as you notice them.
Here in the U.S., about 17% of water consumption comes from the shower. WaterSense showerheads are affordable, only $10 to $20, and low-flow models consume less than two-and-a-half gallons per minute.
4. Opt For Sustainable Cabinetry
If your bathroom cabinets are made from particle board, fiberboard, or hardwood paneling, they can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These harmful chemicals aren’t good for your family or the environment. If you’re ready to upgrade, purchase cabinetry made with VOC-free adhesive and finishes, and consider shopping at reuse stores to cut down on waste.
5. Go For LED Lighting
Choose LED lights for your recessed bathroom lighting and sconces. Be sure new lighting is Energy Star certified. These bulbs will consume a quarter of the energy normal light bulbs do.
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