By Heather Harrington
With the ever-impending threat of global warming on the horizon, more and more people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Contrary to what many believe, going green can actually save you green. “It’s not much more that it’s going to break you,” says Joanne Bechoff, co-owner of G.B. Construction. “Every product that you look at, you can look at alternatives; there are a lot of great products out there that are definitely more environmentally friendly without turning your wallet upside down.” Becoming more eco-friendly doesn’t mean you have to give up all the modern comforts of life either—it just means that you need to give your everyday activities a little extra TLC. Going green is an eco-friendly, cost-effective way to save energy and build a better life. Here are a few tips to help you get there.
Stop the Draft
Reduce your need to turn up the heat in the coming months by putting draft stoppers under windows and doors to keep the chill out. Sealing and insulating the outside of your home, including the exterior walls, ceilings, windows, doors and floors, is one of the most cost-effective ways to lower your heating bill. Drafts around doors and windows are easy to feel and can affordably be fixed with caulk, spray foam or weather stripping, or if you’re feeling creative, stuff an old sock with pebbles and put it against your window/door.
Blinded by the Light
Fluorescent bulbs use up to 75 percent less energy than regular incandescent bulbs, and can save you up to $30 on your monthly electric bill. Also, put your lights on timers or use a dimmer. Your lights don’t need to be on 24/7, nor does your house need to be lit up like the tree in Rockefeller Center.
Take the Pressure Off
Low-flow faucets/showerheads help conserve about 50 percent of your water, while not changing the water pressure. Turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth or shaving doesn’t seem that major, but it makes a huge difference in the long run.
Is Your Toilet Running?
Leaky toilets can waste massive amounts of water (almost 200 gallons a day), and you might not even realize it. Leak-detecting color tabs can help locate a problem; all you do is place the color tab in the toilet and if the color runs without flushing the bowl, you have a problem. If you find your toilet is now an abstract work of art, a water flap will do the trick; these actually time the filling of the toilet bowl, thus reducing the overall consumption of water. Don’t waste all your time with the porcelain gods though—all pipes and faucets should be checked at least twice a year for leaks. Even the tiniest drip can amount to gallons of water being wasted in a year.
Heaters Get Cold Too
The U.S. spends about $15 million a year heating water. By insulating your water heater with a simple jacket (available at most hardware stores for about $20), you could save up to $30 a year.
Phantom of the Outlet
Many electronics emit electricity even when not is use—this is called phantom energy. Unplug any appliance/electronic when not in use. Putting all your appliances on one surge protector can also cut back on the wasted energy.
Look to the Stars
Energy Star, that is. This special line of appliances is specifically made to be more energy efficient and can save you up to 9 percent on your energy bill.