In today’s society, we are all trying to live a cleaner life that benefits our families and the environment around us. When it comes to making green choices, there are many modern technological advances that can help families to reach this goal. If you are in the market to make your life, and your home, a little greener, follow along as we discuss some of the easiest ways to do just that.
At the top of the list when it comes to “greening up” a home is updating appliances. Today’s washers and dryers, refrigerators and stoves, dishwashers and even microwaves use less energy and less water than ever before. Look for the energy guide on any appliance you might be purchasing to see where that appliance falls when it comes to cost to operate per year and energy efficiency. This is a federal guide that consumers can use to make educated choices that will help their home and the planet. Purchase the most energy friendly appliances you can afford for both long term savings and to support a greener lifestyle.
In addition to updating appliances, making a few modifications to your plumbing can also help to conserve some of the Earth’s natural resources. Consider purchasing low flow toilets if you are updating your bathroom, or install shower fixtures that low flow and conserve water. In your kitchen, consider a faucet attachment such as a sprayer that avoids the unnecessary use of water when you step away from the sink for a minute. Also look into updating things like your hot water heater to make your home more efficient and cost effective.
Another great way to help the Earth and your family’s pocket book is by monitoring the temperature in your home. Try to set your thermostat up a degree or two in the summer or down a degree or two in the winter and see the cost savings. Also consider purchasing digital thermostats that automatically adjust your indoor temperature whenever you are not at home. Doing this can save you hundreds of dollars a year, and it also helps to conserve both electricity and gas within your home.
Finally, make efforts to conserve water. This might involve home improvements such as adding timers to your outdoor irrigation system so that it only runs for a limited amount of time each day, as well as sensors that keep your sprinklers from turning on during rain showers. Also consider utilizing rain barrels to collect water that can later be used in your garden and to water your lawn. Make sure to repair any drippy faucets inside your home quickly, and if you see a leak, get a professional to take a look at it. All of these measures can protect the value of your home, while also helping you to conserve water, a precious resource that many areas of the country are short on.
Going green is not as difficult as you might think. With a few simple home improvements, you can make your home a greener place to live, saving your family money and helping Mother Earth to remain healthy too.
