We’re lucky to live in a time when technology and new ideas are the norm. Smart technology, better ways to get around, and helpful apps are all around us, making it easier for us all to live more efficiently. So, with all of these great new ideas, it’s hard to understand why so many people still don’t live more sustainably.
The world, our communities, and our utility bills would all benefit greatly if we all made one little step toward a greener lifestyle. For those who want to conserve energy but don’t know where to start, here are a few ideas to help you make your home greener.
Start A Compost Heap
To start a compost heap in your backyard, you don’t need a lot of room. Compost is what you get when you put organic waste in a pile or container and let it break down over time. Your waste fruit and vegetables can be used as fertilizer for your backyard, and it also cuts down on the amount of trash you make every day which cuts down on what ends up in landfill.
Seal Your Windows
Seal the air leaks in and around your windows to go the extra mile. If your windows let in cold air, you might want to add weatherstripping to the frames. Fill any cracks in your drywall with silicone caulk or put a sheet of shrink film on your windows. Sealing up holes and cracks is a simple and cheap way to save money on energy costs.
Replace Incandescent Bulbs
As of 2014, 60-watt and 40-watt incandescent light bulbs were no longer being manufactured (the 100-watt and 75-watt bulbs had previously been phased out). Fortunately, there is a better option. Your bulbs will live longer and consume less energy if you switch to halogen, compact fluorescent, or LED lights rather than the old incandescent type. To save money on your power bill, switch to more environmentally friendly lights.
Don’t Wash With Hot Water
If you can, don’t use hot water in your washer. Instead, use cold or warm water. Your washer uses 90 percent of the energy it uses to heat the water. The other ten percent is used to run the machine. This means that if you use cooler water for every load, you could save a lot of energy. Plus, if you have an expert service your washer and dryers, you can make them a lot more efficient – or buy new energy-efficient versions, and that will make a big difference.
Install Solar Panels
Even though solar panels aren’t cheap, more and more people are using them to heat water and power their homes. Solar panels are helpful in many ways. They help you save money on your energy bills over time, encourage you to use less fossil fuel, and may help you qualify for yearly tax breaks. Most of the time, they are put on your roof. They save you money on your electricity bill because they generate energy without help from your utility company.