There is only one Earth, so it makes sense to take care of it. One way to better care of the planet is by making more eco-friendly choices at home. Even if you're considering moving soon, a few sustainable upgrades could make your home more appealing to buyers. In fact, eco-friendly Jackson homes for sale are very sought-after right now. Here are a few suggestions.

• Replace Older Windows
  Does your home still have older wooden windows? Take a close look at the frames and sashes. If you see places where the wood is rotting, separating from the glass, or chipping away, your windows are far less efficient than they could be.
  
  Replacing your old windows with new vinyl or composite windows is a very eco-friendly choice. New windows are better insulated and better sealed, reducing the energy needs of your furnace and air conditioner. Many new windows are made from recycled plastics and reclaimed wood fibers.
  
  
• Improve or Replace Your Attic Insulation
  Attic insulation reduces heat transfer through the roof. This helps keep your heating and cooling bills down. In New Hampshire, most homes should have two layers of fiberglass insulation in the attic. If yours only has one layer, add a second one. Install the new insulation perpendicular to the existing insulation, as this provides the most complete heat blockage. 
  
  If your current attic insulation is discolored or compacted, remove it and replace it with new insulation. Wear long sleeves, goggles, and a mask when working with fiberglass, as the fibers can make you itchy.
  
  
• Maintain Your HVAC System
  A little maintenance can go a long way in keeping your HVAC system running efficiently. Make sure you change your air filter every month or two. This way, dust won't obstruct the flow of air.
  
  Consider having a professional HVAC technician come tune up your equipment. They'll tighten loose bolts, lubricate moving parts, clean your burner, and more. After a tune-up, your furnace and AC should work better with less energy.
  
  
• Drain Your Water Heater
  Water heaters can accumulate sediment in the bottom. This sediment interferes with heating efficiency. Luckily, you can easily drain the sediment from your water tank.
  
  Connect a hose to the drain valve at the bottom of your water heater. Put the other end of the hose in a bucket. Turn the valve, and drain a couple of gallons of water from the tank. Close the valve, disconnect the hose, and dispose of sediment-filled water.
  
  
• Install a Smart Thermostat
  If you don't already have a smart thermostat, it's time to upgrade! With a smart thermostat, you can monitor your energy use and make changes accordingly. You can also adjust your home's temperature remotely so you're not wasting heat or AC when you're not home.
  
  Most smart thermostats come with installation instructions. You'll need a few simple tools, such as a screwdriver and wrench.
  
  
• Fix Leaking Taps
  If you have any dripping faucets, have a plumber fix or replace them. Also, have them fix any toilets that run between flushes.
  
  What looks like a small water leak can waste gallons of water daily. Since clean water is a limited resource, this waste is not good for the planet.

Making your home more eco-friendly will certainly make it more appealing to buyers. Keep the ideas above in mind, and contact us if you need more advice. Our real estate agents can guide you through the buying or selling process.