Organized Living

FIVE EASY WAYS TO GO GREEN AND SAVE $

“Green” homes are the wave of the future, with energy savings and environmentally sound materials built into the structure from the foundation up. But there are plenty of ways you can reduce your home’s carbon footprint--and save money, too--without building a brand new home:

1. Replace standard light bulbs with compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs. You’ll save up to 30% off your typical electric bill.
   
   
2. Install low-flow showerheads and plumbing fixtures. You’ll still get the water pressure you want and won’t even miss the reduced volume of water you’re using. Saves on water bills and sewer demand.
   
   
3. Use a programmable thermostat. Just set it to turn the AC and heat up or down at night and when you aren’t home. You’ll see significant savings on your electric and/or natural gas bill.
   
   
4. Recycle. You’ll reduce your waste to a fraction of what it was. And often, you’ll discover non-profit organizations, such as your local district, that can turn your old newspapers, bottles or cans into much needed funds.
   
   
5. Clean or replace your furnace filter. A clean filter allows your furnace to operate much more efficiently. And a high-efficiency filter will help maintain better air quality. If you have a central vacuum system, better yet. Because a central vac removes virtually all dirt and dust and transports it to a sealed canister away from living space, no irritating particles are circulated back into the air, as with many traditional vacuum cleaners. That means an improved indoor environment for you and your loved ones, and longer lasting air filters for the furnace.