Not all “going green” efforts have to be giant projects to help the environment. Small changes can add up to a big impact. I’ve pulled together a list of small, simple and quick changes that you can implement.
· Change your HVAC equipment filters on a regular basis – this allows your furnace / air conditioner to work more efficiently and helps keep the air in your house clean.
· Swap out your incandescent lights for Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL) or LED lights.
· When boiling water or cooking “liquid” meals, cover the pot. This will allow the item to heat quicker and use less energy.
· Vacuum your refrigerator / freezer coils – this will help keep your refrigerator / freezer operating at it’s peak efficiency.
· Install low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators.
· Only run your dishwasher or cloths washer when you have a full load.
· If you have a reasonable amount of dishes (more than just a few) using a dishwasher uses only half the energy, one-sixth of the water and less soap than washing by hand.
· Close your window coverings in the winter at night and during the day in the hot part of summer. Install a dimmer switch on frequently used lights. Dim your lights by a quarter, you increase your energy savings by 20 percent; dim them by half, increase your savings 40 percent. You also extend bulb life up to 20 times when you dim a bulb halfway.
· Lower the temperature on your water-heater, it’s safer and saves energy.
· Bring tote bags to the grocery store rather than using their bags.
Remember, little things can add up!
