Living Green – Simple Changes that can make your Home Greener

Living Green – Simple Changes that can make your Home Greener

June 11, 2010, 4:17 pm
Filed under: Uncategorized

Living green is not only good for the environment but good in the long-term for your family and your pocketbook.  Some simple changes around the house can create a greener environment and save you money at the same time.

1. Change old thermostats to programmable thermostats.  You can save on your heating and cooling costs by setting your thermostat back when you are not at home or while you are sleeping.  Set your thermostat to 78 degrees F or higher in the summer and 62 degrees F or lower in the winter.  This will reduce energy usage and the cost.  Remember it takes in floor heat longer to transition between temperature settings.
2. Switch out incandescent light bulbs with CFL’s (compact fluorescent light bulbs).  By switching 5 incandescent bulbs with CFL’s you can save $100 a year.  Once the long-life CFL’s finally burn out, be prepared to recycle them responsibly.
3. Replace older appliances with ENERGY STAR appliances.  Replacing appliances, water heaters, furnaces or air-conditioners with ENERGY STAR rated products can save you anywhere from 10-30% on your energy costs.
4. Select products that are low-VOC (volatile organic compounds)  or organic.  Paint and carpeting are two products that are now available with no or lower VOC”s.  Carpeting made from recycled materials and fully recyclable is now available also, or choose a laminate wood flooring if it is suited for your lifestyle.  There are also new and improved green cleaning products with no chemicals added that can safely clean your home and laundry.
5. Replace older shower heads, faucets and toilets with newer low-flow models.   Just switching out your shower heads can save a family of 4 up to $285 per year on water costs and will conserve water supplies.
6. Replace windows and install energy-efficient window treatments that work to insulate your home both in the winter and summer months.  Hunter Douglas brand window treatments are rated for energy efficiency and Interiors by Design can help you select the style most suitable for your home and environment.
7. Recycle waste.  The easiest way to stay on top of this is to create a space in your kitchen that makes it easy for you to separate recycled materials.  If you are getting ready to remodel your kitchen, consider built-in recycled bins for your cabinets by the kitchen sink or pantry.

At Interiors by Design, we can help you decide the best place to start.  If you are planning to remodel your home, this is an excellent time to begin to incorporate green changes into your environment that will promote the health of our environment, your health and the health of your wallet!  Please call us at 970-453-9020 for more information on how to make your home greener. 

www.pathnet.org, www.makeyourhomegreen.vic.gov.au

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