Here at Annadel Builders, Inc., we are committed to environmentally conscious methods. We believe in choosing smart technology and eco-friendly practices to promote a future that is sustainable, optimistic, and green. Partner with us by checking out these 11 practical steps you can take towards reducing your carbon footprint!

  1. Conduct a home energy assessment – Having a professional home energy assessment done by a contractor can provide insight into your home’s energy use and efficiency and provide ideas for reducing your energy usage. Check Energy Upgrade California’s website for tips on conducting your own assessment, or for help finding a certified professional in your area.
  2. Audit your home’s insulation – In California homes approximately 30% of energy is used for heating and cooling. A properly insulated home saves tremendous amounts of energy while also providing year-round comfort. Insulation’s resistance to conductive heat flow is rated in terms of thermal resistance, designated as R-value. The higher the R-value the more effective the insulation. Perform an audit of your home’s insulation and replace it if it’s below the following R-values.
    • Floors, R-19
    • Ceilings, R-30
    • Walls, R-19
  3. Install a rainwater tank – Collecting rain is one of the most practical steps you can take towards reducing water waste. Use it to wash your clothes, water your garden, or even to flush your toilet.
  4. Energy efficient appliances – Choose home appliances that are designed to conserve energy. Make sure to research the energy ratings for each of the appliances you are considering. Look for things like air conditioners with high-efficiency compressors, fan motors, and heat transfer surfaces, or for heating pumps that can adsorb ambient heat.
  5. Eat locally and in-season – Buying locally is a fantastic way to support your community while also reducing food transportation costs, which cause increased agricultural emissions. Look for produce developed using minimal pesticides or fertilizers.
  6. Buy fish carefully – Eating fish is an excellent addition to your diet. However, common overfishing practices have been known to wreak havoc on an ecosystem. Make sure that you are aware of how your fish is being harvested and whether the methods used are sustainable for the environment.
  7. Increase water heater efficiency – Water heating is the second largest home expense, accounting for about 18% of energy usage. While the average water heater has a life expectancy of 10 to 20 years it’s important to employee periodic maintenance to extend the lifespan and most importantly the efficiency of your home’s water heater.
  8. Purchase items with recycled content – This could be anything from recycled plastic spoons, to napkins, to clothing. Purchasing recycled products is an effective way to both reduce energy consumption and keep production costs down because it reduces the amount of material that must be manufactured from raw resources.
  9. Have your car checked regularly – Make sure to service your car frequently to ensure that emission control systems are functioning most effectively. Check the air filter at least once a month and regularly check the pressure in your tires to maximize gas mileage and reduce pollution.
  10. Go paperless – Think of the amount of paper wasted by your mail alone. Reduce fossil fuel and paper waste by paying all of your bills online and unsubscribing to catalogs.
  11. Take a vacation close to home – Airplanes are responsible for an alarming amount of carbon emissions. If you are a frequent flyer, consider reducing your amount of air travel by making your next vacation a local one! By doing so, you will not only be reducing your carbon footprint but you’ll also gain an opportunity to explore and appreciate attractions near you—and for Sonoma and Napa homeowners, enjoying California’s beautiful Wine Country couldn’t be easier!