CFL Light Bulbs
Let There Be Light: Consider changing the light bulbs in your most
frequently used fixtures to highly efficient compact fluorescent bulbs.
According to Energy Star,
these marvels of modern
invention use approximately
75 percent less energy than
standard incandescent bulbs
and last up to 10 times
longer.
Editor's Note: Please
know that these
revolutionary CFL bulbs do
contain a tiny bit of
mercury (enough to cover the
top of a ballpoint pen, or
about 100 times less than
that found in an older
thermometer) so, when one
burns out - which isn't
often - it should be
disposed of properly and,
ideally, recycled. See
Energy Star for all
instructions.
ENERGY STAR®
ENERGY STAR® Upgrade: Cut down on your energy consumption by upgrading to
new Energy Star-rated appliances and electronics. The organization has
placed its blue star of approval on everything from dehumidifiers and
refrigerators to ceiling fans and DVD players. Each product is designed to
run more efficiently, reducing its "operating cost." For even better
results, remember to unplug all electronics while not in use.
Programmable Thermostat
Take Your Temperature:
Most have heard the adage that you should move your
thermostat down 2° in winter and up 2° in summer to save electricity
(according to Energy Star, almost half of the energy we use in our homes
goes to heating and cooling). For even better results, consider installing
a programmable thermostat that will automatically adjust for day vs. night
and/or days of the week, depending on the model. Finally, don't forget to
clean or replace filters on your furnace and air conditioner.
More Insulation
Keep a Tight Seal: No matter how superb your HVAC system, you won't see the
results if you do not protect your home from uncontrolled air leakage
those spots around your windows and doors where your expensive heated or
cooled air slips outside, virtually unnoticed. New caulking and weather
stripping around windows and doors is a big help, as are those handy draft "pillows" that you can lay by a door.
Low-E Windows
Love Low-E: Short for
“low emissivity,” these
state-of-the-art windows
improve the insulation value
of the window itself. This
is a more significant
upgrade to consider, but if
you live in an older home,
it can make a huge different
on your utility bills, and
make your home far more
comfortable, too.
Rain Barrel
Let It Rain: Beyond installing water saving faucets and fixtures, further
improve your water bill by installing a rain barrel
(or two or three). You can
buy them ready made, or make
one yourself. The barrels
collect rainwater runoff
from your roof via your
gutters and store it for
later use watering your lawn
and plants.
Composting
Compost It: Want to
really pamper your begonias?
Start a
compost pile using
grass clippings, leaves and
organic kitchen scraps.
Pick an out-of-the way spot
in your yard, and the pile
can start on the bare
ground, or you can build or
buy a container. (Again,
your local Cooperative
Extension office is a great
resource.) In time you will
have the most wonderful,
nutrient-rich soil to
cultivate your plants with,
while simultaneously
reducing the amount of
organic matter in
landfills. An added bonus?
Little ones will also
appreciate a virtual science
classroom in their own
backyard.
Healthy Cleaning Products
Clean Green: Noxious fumes and chemicals don't have a place in your home.
Trade out old, harsh cleaners for gentle and natural ones made by companies
such as Method, Green Works or EcoQuest. Follow the individual product
directions for a sparkling, clean home.
Buy Local
Buy Local: Opt for locally grown produce and locally-crafted housewares
and furniture to not only
support your neighbors, but
to help cut down on
transportation and packaging
needs normally required with
interstate distribution.
Just don't forget to bring
your groceries home in
reusable shopping bags!
Recycle
Recycle, Recycle, Recycle!
Recycling should be a daily part of your routine.
Utilizing separate "trash" cans saves you from sorting later in the week.
One of the most important times to recycle, however, is during construction
(particularly for a home renovation). Also, don't forget to buy recycled
products. Paper products are a given, but branch out. Today, everything
from countertops and decking to furniture and fabrics can be made from
recycled materials, and, due to modern innovations in production, they may
be difficult to spot. Don't forget to shop antique and thrift shops, too.
Start with these simple
steps, and you will be on
your way to going green. But
don't stop here. There are
an endless number of
uncomplicated ways that you
can be more environmentally
friendly, from washing your
laundry in cold water to
installing low flow faucets
and fixtures. Just have fun
exploring your options!
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