Make your home green by saving energy at home and conserving resources
In today’s world, it’s important to remember the economic climate isn’t the only one to be concerned about. With our booming population and industrialization spreading to even the most remote parts of the globe, our environment is becoming increasingly strained under the pressure of a modernized society. With cities bright enough to be seen from space, it’s easy to see that Americans are one of the leading energy consumers in the modern world. Although it’s not practical to turn off the bright bulbs of the Vegas strip or dim Times Square, it is easy for American families to start saving energy at home with practical home improvement purchases.
A lot of people just don’t think about how much energy they use because they never make the connection between electricity and the environment. The truth is, most electricity is generated by the burning of fossil fuels such as coal, gas or oil. The burning of these materials release carbon dioxide which can contribute to the Greenhouse Effect or “global warming”. Not only are these resources harmful to our environment, but they are non-renewable. This means that there is only a limited supply of how much is available, which is why saving energy at home can make a big difference for the environment and the future of our world.
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With a few easy steps, saving energy at home can turn from habit to way of life. Over time, simple adjustments and changes to your family’s energy consumption can save you time and help you do your part to help the environment.
1. Make signs and post them under the light switches in your home reminding your family members to turn off the lights when they leave the room. Replace all bulbs in your house with compact fluorescent bulbs and use small lamps rather than large, multi-bulb overhead lights. Strategically place lamps next to reading chairs so that light is distributed where it is needed most.
2. Start saving up to replace your outdated, existing appliances with energy star rated appliances and even solar appliances like a solar water heater. Today, manufacturers offer virtually every appliance you’ll ever need in an energy efficient model. From refrigerators to flat screen televisions, you can find an energy star rated electronics that will help reduce your energy costs.
3. When it comes to doing laundry, run it on the cold setting. If you have heavily soiled items, spray with stain remover, let it set, then wash. Since babies and toddlers go through multiple articles of clothing a day, you can wash their clothes by hand in a sink full of warm water and clothing detergent in order to avoid having to run the washer multiple times a week. Once you’re done washing the items by hand, hang in a well-ventilated room or on a clothing line and let them air dry. Also, doing dishes by hand can help with saving energy at home. Remember: doing chores by hand is always the greenest way to go!
Before long, these environmentally friendly tips will become habits and your family will be able to save money and the environment.