Did you know going green can actually save you money? There are simple steps you can take to help you save while protecting the Earth. In honor of St. Patrick’s Day, check out the tips below to help make your home go green!
Turn Off Lights & Unplug Electronics
Start by turning off the lights when you leave a room. During the daytime, try turning off the lights and relying on natural light. Make it a habit of unplugging your electronics when you’re not using them. Electronics such as TVs, computers, chargers and kitchen appliances use energy even if they’re turned off. Bundle electronics on a power strip and then turn it off when you leave the house, go to bed, or aren’t using the electronics.
Make it a habit of unplugging your electronics when you’re not using them. Electronics such as TVs, computers, chargers and kitchen appliances use energy even if they’re turned off. Bundle electronics on a power strip and then turn it off when you leave the house, go to bed, or aren’t using the electronics.
Save Water
Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth in the morning and before bed. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency you can save up to 8 gallons of water! Water heating accounts for 18 percent of all home energy costs, according to the United States Department of Energy. Cut costs by washing laundry in cold water.
Water heating accounts for 18 percent of all home energy costs, according to the United States Department of Energy. Cut costs by washing laundry in cold water.
Skip the Dry Cycle
Although your dishwasher requires heat to properly wash the dishes, you can save energy by turning off the dry cycle, and let the dishes air dry. Make sure you wash full loads only.
Hang your laundry to dry if possible—it might seem a bit old fashioned, but dryers use a ton of energy. If you do use your dryer, clean the lint filter after every use for better efficiency (and to prevent fires).
Use LED or CFL Lights
Light Emitting Diode (LED) and compact fluorescent lamp (CFL) bulbs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs. LED and CFL lights also last longer, which means fewer of them will end up in landfills.
Use a Recycling Bin
Most cities now offer recycling pick up. Designate a bin for recycling in every room, not just the kitchen. Think about how many plastic containers you use in the bathroom! Not sure what you can recycle? Click here for more information.
Seal Gaps Around Doors & Windows
Seal up all the gaps and cracks around your doors and windows. It’s important to make sure your hot or cool air doesn’t slip through the cracks! You can buy outdoor sealing tape at your local hardware store to prevent your money and energy from being wasted. Or, try using caulk to seal up those cracks in the wall.
Use a Reusable Water Bottle
Stop buying plastic disposable water bottles and move towards a reusable water bottle. Check out one of our favorites, the S’well bottle. The S’well bottle keeps drinks cold for 24 hours and hot for 12 hours. You’ll help save the environment while saving money!
