Green, green, green...blah, blah, blah. Green is becoming ultra chic these days - HOWEVER, there are some major saving benefits for "going green" and conserving energy at home. And in this current economy, I am trying to stash every penny I can and cut my bills too.
I saw a recent article on MSN on cheap tips to green your home and some of these translate to apartment dwellers too - so here are the tips:
1. Replace your fridge. The fridge is the best energy sucking beast in your home because it runs 24/7 (better catch it). The changes in energy efficiency from 2001 to now have improved so chances are if you invest in a new fridge, it will cut your energy usage.
If you're not up to spending $500 to $1,000 for a new fridge (have you priced one lately?), there are other ways to shave off more energy usage.
2. Installing a programmable thermostat and timer on the hot water heater. Wow, I never thought about that. It's the same concept used with the air conditioning. If you set the thermostat for a higher setting in warmer months / cooler setting in colder months when your away and then when you return home, have the thermostat return to normal. So you're not using gas or electricity to heat your water when you don't need it.
The downfall to this is that the thermostats run approximately $150 - but you'll make that back in time with saving on your light and gas bills.
3. Solar Shades. I've seen plenty of houses in my hood with these darker screens on their windows. They do add some curb appeal but the major benefit is that the solar screens keep the house cool in the summer and warm in the winter. If you aren't planning to replace your windows in the near future, solar screens are a cost-effective way to save some more money.
4. Caulk and weather stripping. It's finally turning to Fall in Houston and that means we can actually turn off the AC and open the windows at night. But as the weather dips lower at night, you want to keep the drafts out and the heat in. Caulk your windows and any cracks up the staircases and change the weather stripping around windows and doors. This will cut down the draft and cut down your energy usage.
5. Do I have to say it? Change your light bulbs to compact fluorescent. They cost a bit more, but will last forever (ok, well maybe not forever, but they will last anywhere from 5-7 years).
6. Change the AC filter. It's time! Actually, the filter should be changed monthly. It will cut down on dust particles (less housework and less allergy attacks) and will also trim down your light bill by making your AC work efficiently.
These last two may not be feasible for apartment dwellers, but...
7. Install shady landscaping and 8. Install an attic fan.
That about says it all. Even if you only do 2, 3 or 5 out of 8 you will notice a big difference in your light and gas bills. Every bit helps.
Image courtesy of: http://www.liquidsidingok.com/default.asp
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