Being “Green” is a simple adjustment in how we live, and offers excellent benefits! Enjoy lower utility bills—while helping to conserve natural resources; less waste results in less landfill in our community; and using green cleaning products will result in a cleaner and happier home—and environment. Here are some tips that save money, maintain a healthier home, and leave the planet in better shape for future generations.
1. Maximize your Energy in Winter. If your windows are older or do not insulate well, buy a $10 kit to insulate them with plastic. It’s easy to do, you won’t notice the plastic, and this simple adjustment makes our home 2-3 times warmer in the winter—and uses a lot less energy. Also, invest in programmable thermostats, and keep them set to 68 degrees. For every degree you lower your heat in the 60-70 degree range, you conserve 5% of your energy use! And, use the sun to your advantage! Open curtains during the day, and let the sun’s energy warm up your house. Close the curtains at night to help stop heat from escaping through the glass.
2. Buy Energy Efficient Appliances. When old appliances wear out, look for new ones that have a good Energy Star Rating, and that are eco-friendly if possible. I recently replaced a washer and dryer and was made aware to wash my clothes during non-peak hours (before 5pm) which used half the water and half the electricity. The savings alone will pay for the appliances in a few years!
3. Conserve Water. Making simple changes can drastically reduce your water bill, and help to conserve this limited and vital resource. Installing newer shower heads that use water more efficiently; adjusting sprinkler times to water in the evening, more deeply and less frequently, considering plants that use less water—but are just as beautiful; turning off the water while you shave or brush your teeth; and even adjusting the valve in a toilet tank can save hundreds of gallons of water each month!
4. Install Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs. They use 75% less energy, last up to 10 times longer, and save you around $30 per bulb in energy costs!
5. Invest in Fuel Efficient Vehicles. Next time you look at replacing a vehicle, look for one that meets your needs, but with better fuel efficiency. Car Manufacturers are already aware of the need for drastically improved fuel efficiency, and buying a vehicle that is fuel efficient gives you lower prices at the pump, and gives them another purchase in support of changing manufacturing trends.
Remember, each time you purchase something, you are casting a ‘vote’ for one product and against another. The more ‘votes’ that are cast for green products, the more manufacturers will change the marketplace, and that’s a change where everyone wins! Read more valuable tips from your Edmonton carpet cleaner online at www.HandMcarpetcare.com or www.Edmontoncarpetcleaner.ca
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