It seems that everyone is wanting to jump on the Eco-Friendly band wagon these day's, and for good reason. Studies show that you can save some real green by going green. Some green solutions are easier and more cost effective than others and Adam Prince of Zero Energy Design recommends implementing what you can now, while also creating a plan for the future.
Here are 10 simple tips to make your home more Eco-friendly:
1.
Change your light bulbs to more energy efficient ones - Studies have shown that replacing light bulbs can have a significant impact on energy savings, The link will take you to my review of my experience with the switch.
2. Change your air filters regularly - Dirty air filters make it hard for you HVAC system to breath which in turn makes it work harder to cool or heat your house, it is recommended to replace air filters every 30 days.
3. Install a programmable thermostat - A programmable thermostat costs around $35-$50 dollars but can save you 5 times that cost in one year especially if your home is empty for most of the day.
4. Replace an old water heater - As the saying goes if it ain't broke don't fix it, but if its an old water heater were talking about you may just want to replace it. Some new water heaters are up to 75 times more efficient that older models, so replacing that old water heater could see you some real savings!
5. Seal up air leaks - Air leaks are the number one killer of energy efficiency, even a small air leak can cost you hundred of dollars a year. It is advised to check your home for air leaks twice a year before the summer heat comes and before the freezing temps of winter hit. Don't forget to check your windows, doors and HVAC ducts.
6. Upgrade Plumbing Fixtures - Low flow shower heads are all the rage for water savings, Some new fixtures can cut your water usage by as much as 80%
7. Install ceiling fans - If you live in a place that experience mild to sever summer heat something as simple as ceiling fans can do wonders to you pocket book. Ceiling fans keep air flowing around a room and that slight breeze is enough to make it feel 3-5 degrees cooler.
8. Replace old appliances - The biggest energy hogs in our homes are our appliances because most of them are used on a daily basis, Take that Fridge for example newer models are better insulated and can run more efficiently than older models saving your considerable money, also check with your utility company odds are they will pay you to recycle that old fridge.
9. Use sustainable products when replacing household items - When it is time to replace cabinets, flooring or anything else in the home look for new products that are made out of renewable or local materials.
10. Use recycled bags - The number one use of plastic is for plastic grocery bags and water bottles, both of these items are hard to recycle and most people throw them away which means they end up in a land field where they will not decompose. It is better to reuse bags that are made out of sustainable material and take them to the store every time you go. Same with water bottles it is better to buy a reusable water bottle and re fill it from home or if you just cant do tap water a large 5 gallon bottle that you can refill at the grocery store.
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9051 W Kelton Lane, Suite 10
Peoria, Arizona 85382
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