Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Green Retrofit Checklist


Looking for a way to green your home? Start with these great ideas!

Switch to Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Save up to $100 a year on your energy bills, and lessen your need to purchase light bulbs as often by switching to CFLs. They last longer, and and you can enjoy reductions in your energy bill.

Program Your Thermostat
It may be a bit chilly out right now, but keeping your thermostat at 62 degrees or lower in the winter, or 78 degrees or higher in the summertime allow you to preset the system to reduce output when it's not needed, such as when no one is home.

Plug Air Leaks
Common leaks occur around windows and doors. Plugging leaks with weather stripping helps keep your home at the temperature you desire.

Choose Energy Star Appliances
When it's time to replace your appliances, keep Energy Star appliances in mind. Purchasing an energy efficient appliance can reduce your energy bill by at least $50, which depending on the life of the appliance, it should pay for itself in savings.

Reduce Water Use
Install aerators to your sink faucets, and install low-flow shower heads (both can be purchased at your local hardware store), and make sure to use the least amount of water possible when watering your garden.

Switch to Green Power
Per the GreenHomeGuide.com, Green power is an optional utility service for customers who want to help expand the production and distribution or renewable energy technologies. With green power, you do not have to change your electricity provider. Instead, customers just choose to pay a premium on their electricity bulls to cover the extra cost of purchasing clean, sustainable energy. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Energy.


No comments:

the green home

yahoo! green

treehugger

inhabitat

eco-chic

ecorazzi :: the latest in green gossip

earth 911

auto blog green

the oil drum