All It Takes Is One Green Minute…

HOME TIPS FOR THE GREEN SEASON

Tips to help save money and keep the environment clean…

TIP 1 - Use Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs. CFL’s are a big energy saver. Changing five of the most frequently used light bulbs in your home/workplace can save $100 per year on electric bills.

TIP 2 - Program your thermostat to reduce output when you are not at home or are asleep. When you are home, set the A/C at 75° or higher. Set the thermostat at 65° or lower in winter.

TIP 3 - Plug air leaks around windows, doors, A/C, and other wall penetrations.

TIP 4 - Be sure to clean A/C filters. Tune up heating systems regularly and replace if necessary.

TIP 5 - Choose ENERGY STAR appliances. Your energy bill could be reduced significantly per appliance.

TIP 6 - Reduce water usage and groundwater pollution by incorporating native plants in your landscaping. Native plants have been evolving for eons and have adapted to local soils and climate. They will thrive with minimal care and will need less water, fertilizer, and pesticides.

TIP 7 - Buy locally produced products. This reduces the amount of fossil fuel needed to transport the product to market. It also reduces the amount of plastic, and paper packaging. Buying local reduces consumption of valuable natural resources. It also supports the local economy.

TIP 8 - Use low VOC (volatile organic compounds) products to reduce interior air pollution, including low VOC paints and cleaning products. You can make your own low VOC cleaning products from normal household materials like baking soda, vinegar and borax. VOC’s are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOC’s include a variety of chemicals, some of which may have short and long-term adverse health effects.

TIP 9 - Choose wood products from sustainably managed forests, such as certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FCS).

TIP 10 - Make different transportation choices – carpool, walk, bicycle, train, bus, and fuel-efficient car.