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RSS8 Simple and Inexpensive Ways to Make Your Home Just a Little Bit Greener
GreenWerks | 
Dec 27th, 2011 | 
Going green is not just a trend. It is an important part of living responsibly on this planet. As people become greener, they reduce waste and help create a healthier environment. Best of all, they often save money. Here are eight simple and inexpensive ways to go green.
1. Install CFL Bulbs
Replacing old incandescent light bulbs with compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs) will save homeowners money on their electric bill. Although CFLs cost more to purchase than incandescent ones do, they use approximately one quarter of the electricity that incandescent bulbs burn. With advancements in technology, CFLs convert the vast majority of electricity they use into light, not heat. They also last up to eight times longer than incandescent bulbs will. Despite the initial cost, these bulbs can each save homeowners as much as $80 over their lifespan. People who cannot afford to replace all their lights now may want to consider replacing bulbs as they burn out.
2. Unplug Everything
Many devices that use electricity continue to consume small amounts when they are off. Over time, these seemingly insignificant amounts of electricity add up to many kilowatt hours. The worst culprits are television sets, computers, printers and chargers, but even kitchen appliances can use electricity without people realizing. The easiest way to turn everything off is to plug all items into power strips, rather than outlets. When exiting or entering the room, people simply need to flip a switch.
3. Use Light Timers
If lights must be on when people are not home, the greenest way to control their use is through timers. There are both indoor and outdoor timers for lights and other devices. By setting specific times for lights to turn on and off, it appears as if someone is home, but not too much energy is being used.
4. Recycle Old Electronics
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans threw out 5.5 billion pounds of electronics back in 2005. These were computers, cell phones and televisions that had lead, other heavy metals and harsh chemicals in them. By recycling these devices, people can keep malignant substances out of the ground.
5. Become a Locavore
Locavores are people who seek out local foods. They might shop at farmers’ markets, or they may simply look for “local” stickers at the supermarket. Either way, by selecting local foods, people can enjoy the freshest produce, while reducing the carbon emissions that were burnt transporting it to their home.
6. Repair a Leak
Americans, on average, use around 100 gallons of water daily. This figure has more than doubled since 1950. Fixing a leak saves a tremendous amount of water. For instance, a leaky faucet drips about 70 gallons of water each day, and a leaky toilet wastes up to 200 gallons daily. Over 365 days, that adds up to 73,000 gallons wasted in a year. These leaks can usually be repaired with kits purchased at the hardware store and by watching do-it-yourself videos online.
7. Mow Less
Mowing the yard less frequently actually creates healthier grass. Most species thrive best when they are at least 2.5 inches tall. Mowing less will not only save gas or electricity, but the grass will also photosynthesize more. It will literally be greener.
8. Do Full Loads
Anytime a washing machine, dryer or dishwasher is run with only a partial load, resources are being used inefficiently. By filling up these appliances, people can save time, electricity and water. In addition to combining half-loads, people can save energy by selecting short cycles and warm or cool water, instead of hot.
Going green is simple, inexpensive and responsible. In a world where people disagree on almost everything, everyone can be behind going green. These eight simple steps will, over time, save people money and help save the planet.
Author Bio: Zach D. writes for Design55, a UK-based, online, modern furniture shop that carries such notable lines as kartell and Alessi.
Keep Reading and Check out these Articles:
- 10 Easy Steps to Live Green
- Commercial and Home Energy Audits
- Chicago Handyman
- Lake Forest Home Remodeler
- Lincolnwood Home Remodeling
I am 6 out of 8 with this list. Wow, way #6 definitely opened my eyes as to how much wasting of water a small leak can do! I am so guilty. But not for long, very soon I shall be 7 out of 8. Hoorah to green!
After I have read this post I felt like I want to turn my home into an eco-friendly environment. I think this will be my first step in living a healthier lifestyle.