How to Make your Home Greener

As spring approaches here in Charlotte North Carolina, I am reminded of ways to keep my home more green. I found an old article I read a while ago that talked about ways to save energy and make your home more green. Though the list is not comprehensive here are some basic things we all can do to help make our home more green and save green in the process.

First, reduce your water heater tempature by 10 degrees. Just that little change can add up to 3 to 5 percent savings on your electric or gas bill.

Second, when everyone is at school and work lower your thermostat by up to 10 degrees. By doing this for an average of 8 hours five days a week can save you up to 10 percent on your heating bill.

Third, purchase a high performance shower head. Yes, they cost a little more than the regular shower heads. But, the savings in water alone can be up to as much as 60 percent.

Fourth, clean your lint trap in your dryer regulary. According to a survey most people wait to do it. By doing it on a regular basis you can save up to 30 percent on your electric bill.

Fifth, use natural cleaners instead of the chemical ones. Examples of natural cleaners are baking soda, vinegar and salt. They are not only more enviromentally safe, but safer for you and your family. Ever wonder why a lot of these chemicals we use to clean say ventilate the house and wear rubber gloves. How safe is that for us?

Sixth, if you are going to replace your appliances....make sure you buy energy efficient five star appliances. The intiial cost may be a little more. In the long run you will save money and be helping the environment as well.

Seventh, buy house plants. We all rememebr back to our grade school science days when they told us plants were great to have in the house. They breathe in the bad and let out fresh oxgen. An inexpensive way to help keep your home's air cleaner.

Eighth, use green energy whenever possible. I was stunned to find out that over 50 percent of all residential homes have the option to choose green energy for their home. It may be solar powered or wind generated and the cost may be greater...but the long term savings can more than pay for it.

These are just some of many ideas out there to help make your home more environmentally friendly and save you some green as well.



Dave diCecco

Realtor/Agent

www.davedicecco.com