Great Green Energy and Money Saving Tips

Going green is easier when you take it one step at a time. Check out these tips for making it more accessible for you to adopt a greener lifestyle. They’re basic tips you may have already heard of, but just haven’t implemented yet. Think of it as a “top-ten reminder list” for going green and saving money in the process. If that isn’t green incentive enough, I don’t know what is.

Pay Bills Online:

Specify electronic delivery of bills and statements and pay using your personal computer. You’ll save tons of paper and help reduce fuel consumption for delivery of paper checks.

Read Up On The Best Green Products For Your Home:

The most comprehensive and up-to-date source is Green Building Products: The GreenSpeck Guide to Residential Building Materials (3rd edition) by Alex Wilson and Mark Piepkorn. It’s a great resource for greening you home, inside and out.

Put You Computer On A Diet:

Use your computer’s power management settings to put it to sleep when not in use. Free software called Edison gives you even more control. With one click you can start saving energy and fight climate change. Download it HERE.

Use Native Plants:

Plants that thrive in local conditions require less maintenance and watering than non-natives. With plant varieties native to your area, you’ll enjoy floral beauty and conserve water as well. But you will still have to water. Consider using a rain barrel, saves tons of water and money.

Use CFLs:

Buy energy-saving compact fluorescent light bulbs. They’re available at tons of retailers. You’ll be amazed at how long the last.

Install Heat-Control Window Film:

Reduce the load on your air conditioner with do-it-yourself window film. Applied to windows that receive direct sun, it’s designed to reduce up to 76% of solar heat and block up to 99% of the ultraviolet rays. Check it out.

Install A Dimmer Switch:

Dim your lights with a dimmer switch, and you’ll not only save energy, but incandescent bulbs will also last longer. Not all CFL bulbs are dimmer compatible though.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fan:

Make sure you know which way the breeze is blowing. In the winter your ceiling fan should be set to turn clockwise to force warm air down. In the summer a ceiling fan should spin counterclockwise for cool your space.

Program Your Thermostat:

Take full advantage of the energy-saving potential of a eco-programmable thermostat by setting it effectively. For detailed guidelines, visit energystar.gov and start saving.

Look For The Label:

Remove any doubt about whether a given product is green by looking for labels from Energy Star, Water Sense, the Forest Stewardship Council and Green Seal.

For more tips on owning a home and real estate tips, click HERE. Hope these eco-tips help!