Save Some Green By Going Green at Home

Did you know that going green not only helps the environment, but your pocketbook as well? The following are a few ways you can go green in your home and save money doing so:

Lighting

1. Use energy efficient light bulbs. They last longer, use less energy and save money, too.
2. Turn lights off before you leave the house, and whenever you leave a room. Leaving lights on wastes energy and costs you money. Making a conscious to turn lights off, or put them on motion sensors and detectors will save energy and money. You might also consider automating them so that you can turn them off remotely.

Appliances

1. When you replace your old appliances, try to replace them with energy efficient appliances, denoted by their energy star rating seal of approval. They may cost a little more upfront, but will consume less energy, use less water, saving you money in the long run.
2. When it comes to small household appliances, keep them unplugged unless you’re using them. Most come with small computer chips or sensors that use energy even when the appliance is not in use. Don’t waste energy or money, unplug your tabletop appliances when you’re not using them.

Energy use

1. A great way to save money and energy is to use less for heating and cooling. A few degrees lower in the winter and higher in the summer can save a bundle, and you will adjust quickly to the difference in temperature.
2. Wash your clothes in cold water, and let them hang dry. These two tips are going to help you save as much as 85% of your energy use when doing laundry.

Water use

1. Cut down on shower time. While it’s nice to luxuriate in a shower, spending a few minutes less each time will shrink your water bill and your heating bill. This results in greener living and greater savings on energy bills.
2. Seal any leaks on faucets, as this can save you water and money every day.
3. Fix your toilets so that they are not constantly running. Repairs are usually inexpensive and simple but they can save you a lot of money.
4. Install low flow shower heads and faucet aerators on faucets. They conserve heat and water while keeping water pressure high.

Your home can be a greener environment without remodeling or investing a lot of money. Make a conscious effort to run your washer and dishwasher only when you have a full load and turn off televisions and lights when not in use. The energy savings will add up fast. One person or home can make a difference.