Greening Your Home
Many people are trying to find green homes or plan to convert the homes they’re buying to a greener one. What can you do to make your home greener?
Even if you are not making big changes, such as replacing old leaky windows or installing ceiling fans, there are still small things that can be done around the house to minimize energy consumption and reduce your carbon footprint.
Power Down- Put electronics such as computers and televisions on a power strip and turn it off when you’re not using those items. Consider “smart” power strips that can detect when an item is turned off but still drawing idle current; the strip will automatically shut off the current to selected outlets on the strip.
Seal Drafts- Seal holes, cracks and openings in your home to stop heat loss through the walls and ceiling.
Use Energy Star®- Energy Star® products help you save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Energy Star® label is on more than 40 different kinds of products for the home; including lighting, home electronics, heating and cooling equipment and appliances.
Fill it Up- Run washers and dryers at full capacity. They are most efficient when they are fully loaded.
Use Your Dishwater- You’ll use up to 35 percent less water by doing a full load of dishes vs. washing them by hand – and use less energy for water heating, too.
Reduce your Waste – Think green before tossing something into the trash. Approximately 70% of all household and yard waste can be composted or recycled. Find out if your community has a green waste or recycling program.
Cabinets – Cabinetry is the greatest source of formaldehyde emissions in the home. If you are considering a home renovation, opt in for formaldehyde-free adhesives and solvent-free stains or coatings.
Change a light bulb – Replace the bulbs in your kitchen with LED or CFL light bulbs to save energy and money. Natural lighting combined with task-specific indoor lighting and low voltage, high efficiency dimmers; greatly reduce the amount of energy needed to light the home.
Kim Duclos CRS (702) 521-3939 (888) 949-2890
find a house with your mouse @ http://www.callkim.net/
