From Guest Blogger Eileen O’Shanassy: Run a Greener Household With These 5 Tips
Being energy efficient can also help you save some green in your wallet! Here are five areas that will make a big difference:
1) Heating and Cooling Systems:
Adjusting the thermostat “can save as much as 10 percent a year on heating and cooling by simply turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its normal setting,” says Energy.gov. While that may seem too uncomfortable, a programmable thermostat can quickly take care of this while you are at work or sleeping and adjust an hour before you wake or get home for the day. Make sure to get an annual tune-up for the unit and change the filters on schedule.
2) Green Appliances:
Older appliances should be replaced every 10-15 years for maximum energy efficiency. In their energy saving tips, Kiwi Energy claims that energy efficient appliances can reduce your home energy usage by up to 50%. If you need more of a reason to use greener appliances, visit Energystar.gov, and you can use their calculator to determine how much you can save per year based on the age of the device and the cost of electricity in your area. Many local utility companies also run rebate programs for replacing older models with green appliances.
3) Energy efficient lighting:
Using LED light bulbs will be an investment upfront that will pay for itself. LED bulbs last about 15 years and also use 70-90 percent less energy than traditional bulbs. Because the bulbs do not emit as much heat, they can also help the room feel more cooling in the summertime.
4) Windows:
A drafty window is one of the fastest places to lose heat or cold air. It is also one of the most straightforward problems to fix. A caulking gun will help seal any gaps between the window and the frame. Also, try purchasing a window film kit to create a tight seal around the window. Finally, if you do have the ability to replace an older window, you can save up to 12 percent on your energy bill.
5) Keep your house clean:
A person with a clean home isn’t prone to leaving thrash around or keeping unnecessary (but recyclable) waste sitting at home. Keeping your house clean isn’t just a great personal decision that’s bound to impact your health, but it’s one that encourages greener thinking. Re-evaluate what you want to keep, where things go, how things work by cleaning your home and thinking of the possibilities for implementing a greener household.
Pick one or two of the areas listed above, and soon you’ll be seeing an impact on your energy bill and the environment.
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