Green remodeling is increasingly becoming popular among homeowners. McGraw-Hill Construction, in coordination with the National Association of Home Builders, conducted a Green Home Customer Survey in 2007. The study showed that 39 percent of the customers surveyed had opted to use green products when remodeling their homes. The following are some of the most common changes that you can initiate when green remodeling your home:

Replace Windows
According to Efficient Windows Collaborative, the use of the correct type of energy-efficient windows can reduce your electric bill by almost 40%. You should therefore consider replacing your existing windows with energy-efficient windows. The type of glazing, framing, spacer, and gas-filling used on your windows, even the windows’ type of operation, all contribute to your windows’ overall efficiency. The best type of windows depends on local conditions, especially climate. Consult a green builder if you want maximum energy savings.

Seal Windows
Ask your remodeling contractor whether or not you need to replace your windows; perhaps, your windows do not need replacing. To minimize air leakage and improve your windows’ energy efficiency, you may get by with some caulking or weather stripping.

Install an Energy-Efficient HVAC System
Replace your existing HVAC system with HVAC equipment that provides maximum cooling and heating for the least amount of energy consumption. The simplest way of telling whether HVAC equipment is energy-efficient or not is by checking its seasonal energy efficiency ratio or SEER. The higher an appliance’s SEER is, the more energy-efficient it should be. The size of the HVAC unit also matters; to achieve optimal indoor cooling or heating, choose a unit that is just the right size for the room or space where it will be used.

Upgrade Door
You can plug leaks by upgrading your door. Your door must be constructed in such a way that it seals out moisture (i.e. rain) and drafts. Weather stripping and caulking as well as installing a drip cap can work to improve your home’s efficiency. The slope of your door sill also matters; moreover, consider installing a drip edge on your door sill.

Install an On-Demand Water Heater
Replace your water heater with an on-demand unit. This will give you hot water in an instant, but won’t heat water you won’t use so you’ll save on water-heating costs. You’ll reduce your water consumption, too; you can get hot water immediately, so you won’t have to run cold water that you don’t need.

Install Water-Efficient Fixtures
Reduce your water bill by improving the efficiency of your water fixtures. First, you should choose and install faucets and showers that have low water flow. Second, you should replace your toilet flush with one that uses a lower volume of water per flush.

Green remodeling need not be complicated. Just implement the simplest changes that you can to improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your home’s water and electricity consumption. Contact a remodeling contractor if you need specific green remodeling ideas for your home.