By Alison Hoover
The internet is filled with tips and tricks for being more eco-friendly, but a lot of those lists include tasks that seem daunting or impractical. Most of us have no idea what to do with a compost bin nor do we have the resources to install in-floor radiant heating simply to save energy costs. This list is intended to be more user-friendly. Transitioning to an eco-conscious lifestyle is slow – you can’t do it all at once. Instead, take these tips and apply them to your current situation as much as possible.
Install a programmable or smart thermostat
Programmable thermostats allow you to schedule when the heating and air conditioning in your home will function. Smart thermostats go one step further and let you control the temperature from a phone or other device, meaning you can be even more precise with your adjustments. Properly programmed thermostats can save as much as 15% of the energy your home uses in heating and cooling. This is better for the environment and your wallet!
Upgrade the appliances you use the most
From refrigerators to water heaters, appliances are major energy consumers. When it’s time to replace an appliance, look for the Energy Star label. While the unit may cost more upfront, keep in mind that the appliance will cost less to operate and is better for the environment. There are a lot of new, eco-friendly options available that you may not have previously considered, such as induction cooktops and tankless water heaters. In the meantime, be mindful to keep refrigerator coils and lint traps clean, and unplug appliances you don’t use often.
Insulate your home
Insulation is key for retaining heat in winter and cool air in summer. Look for leaks around windows and doors, and repair them with caulk or weatherstripping as appropriate. Caulking windows can save as much as 8% on your home’s total energy usage. Room-darkening curtains will also help reduce energy use. If needed and possible, upgrade to double-paned windows. And don’t forget about your garage door! A poorly insulated garage will impact your home’s overall heating and cooling costs. Make sure the door has proper weatherstripping and consider adding insulating panels.
Tap into renewable energy
There are countless ways to harness the Earth’s renewable resources to power our homes. In fact, solar water heaters can save between 50% and 80% of the cost of running a traditional water heater. Geothermal heat pumps, which are becoming more popular, use the Earth’s natural heat to keep homes at a comfortable temperature. Solar panels and rain catchment systems are also simple ways to significantly reduce a home’s energy consumption. While these are bigger-ticket improvements, you may qualify for significant tax credits based on these improvements.
Make the switch to low-flow (or DIY something similar)
Standard toilets typically use about 5 to 7 gallons of water per flush. With most people flushing a toilet an average of 5 times a day, that’s a whole lot of water! Low-flow toilets use just a fraction of the water at about 1.6 gallons per flush. If you’re not in a place to replace your toilet, consider water displacement as a way to make up the difference. All you have to do is fill a glass jar with water and place it in the tank of your toilet. Consider swapping out shower heads and bathroom faucets for low-flow options.
Revamp your outdoor space
Incorporating a small vegetable or herb garden allows you to source kitchen ingredients locally. Cutting back on fertilizer is good for the environment and will reduce how often you mow. Incorporating native plants means less watering and maintenance, as well as more food and shelter options for local animals. Whether you already have a green thumb or not, your yard is an easy place to start living more eco-consciously.
Swap out old lightbulbs
When lighting your home, opt for LEDs that are significantly more energy efficient. In fact, incandescent bulbs are so wasteful that recent legislation has attempted to ban them altogether. Even better than LEDs or CFLs is natural light, so open your curtains and allow Mother Nature to illuminate your way as much as possible. If you often forget to turn off the lights, employ the help of motion-activated fixtures or smart bulbs that turn off after a set amount of time. If you want to go a step further, consider replacing outdoor lights with solar-powered options.
Use environmentally conscious products
The next time you have to shop for cleaning products, use it as an opportunity to swap for more eco-friendly products. Explore ways to reduce chemical use and limit single-use plastics. A lot of great companies are now selling concentrates alongside reusable glass bottles. This is an example of a higher financial cost upfront, but you’ll recoup the investment in time while also safeguarding our environment. You can also harness the power of natural products such as white vinegar or lemon juice. Instead of single-use paper towels, clean with old T-shirts or hand towels repurposed for that use.
Line drying clothes, reusing glass containers, and buying second-hand furniture are simple ways to establish a more sustainable home and lifestyle. While setting the water heater to a few degrees lower may not seem like it’ll have an impact, in time, it will. Small swaps are the most manageable way to make your home and lifestyle more eco-friendly.
Alison is a world traveler and writer. When she’s not traveling, you can find her at home playing with her pet rabbit, baking, and reading.
