Let’s face it… energy costs are bound to increase with what is happening in the Gulf right now. So let that be your catalyst to start making steps toward a “green(er)” home. We have found a few easy, cost-effective ways to help save some money… and your planet.
1. Use Fans – Place a fan in front of your air conditioner to help spread the cool air around the room more efficiently. You can also open the windows on milder days rather than using the A/C and use a fan to keep fresh air moving.
2. LED or Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs) – Change all incandescent light bulbs to either LEDs or CFLs. The bulbs can be found at your local hardware store or even at the grocery store. By replacing just 5 of your most frequently used bulbs, you could save $100 per year in energy costs!
3. Insulation -Next time you’re up in your attic, check to make sure your attic floor is well-insulated. Also check your doors and windows for gaps and plug all holes that you may find. In addition, insulate your water pipes. This will not only protect them from freezing in the winter time, but will keep the temperature more stable for the summer time.
4. Turn Down Water Heater Temperature 10 degrees – By just one small turn of the knob, you can save up to 5% on your energy costs.
5. HVAC Maintenance – Have a licensed HVAC contractor inspect and service your HVAC every 2 years. By keeping your unit serviced, your HVAC is not struggling to force air through the system. This may cost about $100 but could ultimately save you 10% on your energy costs. Make sure you also change your air filter EVERY MONTH.
6. Install A Programmable Thermostat – This is a very inexpensive way to control your heat and air conditioner when you are not home. Turn up your thermostat when you are at work and program it to return to a cooler temperature before you get home. You can save a lot on your energy costs by not running the heat or A/C at full blast all day.
7. Install Low-Flow Showerheads and Toilets – The showerheads are not very expensive and use 60% less water without compromising the high-pressure feeling. Low-flow toilets are great for the same reason as they use a lot less water per flush than normal toilets. Switching to low-flow design will save the amount of water you use – thus saving you more money on utility bills.
8. Shade Your Home – By either installing awnings or blinds, you can help regulate the interior temperature in your home. In the summer months keep the blinds closed and awnings out to keep the sun from radiating heat into your home. In winter, open the blinds and allow the sun to heat your home passively.
9. Buy House Plants – Everyone wants cleaner air. Use plants in your home to freshen the air and produce oxygen inside your home. It also offers a decorative touch too. Just don’t forget to water them and keep them in the sun!
10. Plant a Tree – It wouldn’t be going “Green” without planting a tree, right? Not only are you helping produce more oxygen for you and your neighbors, you can plant them strategically to shade your home. Just be careful that you don’t plant a tree too close to the home to prevent causing problems in the future.
Don’t be scared to go “green.” It doesn’t mean that you are going to start wearing hemp and making your own clothes. We all live on this Earth and want to conserve it for our kids’ kids.
