Making Your Home Environmentally Friendly

Saving money by reducing the amount of water or power you use is not only good for your wallet, but it is also good for the environment. Implementing small changes from ensuring less water streams out of the faucet to working to keep air inside the home can help make your house more efficient. Below are some tips for creating a home that contributes to the overall health of the environment.

photo Stefan Krause, Germany

Prevent Air Leaks

One way you can conserve energy and save money is by plugging air leaks throughout your house. Use weather stripping around your doors and caulk around the windows. Stopping cold and warm air from flowing outside will allow your HVAC to system to rest. You don’t want it to constantly run to maintain a temperature. Making sure your home is properly sealed with also help keep out unwanted pests.

Limit Water Use

Aerators are great for reducing the amount of water you use. Faucet aerators are composed of housing, a rubber washer and a mesh insert. The mesh has holes which restricts water flow with pockets of air. This allows the water to flow at a consistent pressure while using less water. Another way to save water is by washing your clothes in cold water. You can then air dry them on a drying rack to cut down on energy use.

photo D. Sharon Pruitt from Hill Air Force Base, Utah, USA

Purchase Energy Efficient Lights

It’s a good idea to use energy efficient light bulbs to save you time and money. Not only do they save electricity, but they also last longer than traditional light bulbs. LED lightbulbs are 85% more energy efficient than regular light bulbs and can last up to nine years.

Have Recycle Bins in Your Home

Buy additional trash bins to sort your recycling. If you have a designated place for recycled goods that is designed to be easily organized, your family is more likely to save products rather than throwing them in the trash. Check with your local municipality to find out what goods are accepted and whether they require prior sorting. Your contribution can help cut back on pollution in the environment caused by waste.

Insulate Your Home

Investing in insulation can help ensure that you use as little energy as possible. Insulation can help trap heat so you don’t have to keep your heater running constantly. Even in the summer months, insulation can help relieve your air conditioner. Places such as the walls and attic are the best place to insulate. Double glazing your windows is also a good way to ensure warm or cool air is kept within the home.

Purchase Eco-Friendly Furniture

Now a days there is a plethora of options when it comes to selected eco-friendly pieces of furniture. Table made of reclaimed wood, appliances made from recycled steel, and sofas composed of organic cotton are all on the market. When you are choosing rugs to decorate your home, choose ones made from recycled materials. Opt to purchase energy efficient appliances when out shopping. Check to see if fridges or washers are certified by Energy Star which means it works at a high level of efficiency.

Author: Clarissa Caouette