Practicing green energy habits at home is a great way to both save money and help preserve the environment. To spend less on utility services, consider these five practices:
Use Energy Efficient Light Bulbs
Standard incandescent bulbs use more energy to operate and wear out much quicker than LED bulbs. While the initial cost of an LED bulb is more, an average single LED bulb can save a consumer six dollars per year in energy costs and 40 over the life of the bulb.
Use a Low-Flow Shower Head
Baths take up a lot of water, and using a water-saving low-flow shower head saves up to five gallons of water for a shower compared to a bath. They also save up to 145 per year in electricity costs. While a warm bath may be relaxing, a quick shower gets a person just as clean and helps conserve water.
Make Sure there is Plenty of Insulation
A well-insulated house loses less warm air in the winter and holds in cool air during the summer. The attic is probably most commonly thought of when contemplating insulation, but open spaces in windows and doors also cause higher energy bills. Adding insulation is a simple task that homeowners can perform themselves.
Use Rechargeable Electric Lawn Equipment
Gas mowers and trimmers are big air polluters, so getting a rechargeable mower and other lawn equipment will help keep the air cleaner and save on the cost of fuel. They are also quieter, helping to preserve hearing and making neighborhoods more peaceful.
Keep the Refrigerator Away from Heat
In many kitchens, the refrigerator ends up sitting right next to the oven. This makes the refrigerator work extra hard whenever the oven gets warm. Try to find a spot away from the oven, dishwasher, or any heat-producing appliance to keep the refrigerator from burning precious energy.
A few simple changes can go a long way to keeping the environment from suffering. Every little bit helps, so take care to save as much energy and water as possible.