If you’re like me and think being green is just someone being envious of your brand new home, I’ve got news! There are things you can do in your home to optimize your energy efficiency and no one even has to be jealous about it because they’re simple and easy to do every day.
Set your programmable thermostat
Most new homes come equipped with a programmable thermostat, if you don’t have one, getting one installed is a worthy investment. You can set your home to desired temperatures while you’re home and while you’re away meaning – better heating bills! When you’re gone on vacation or if your working hours are steady you can even set temperatures for the week.
Lights! Camera! Action!
Open the blinds let sunshine in during the summer and winter; the best part is… it’s FREE! With our long summer days, you may never remember to turn on a light or two in the house. Also do try and switch out any old light bulbs throughout the home with more energy efficient fluorescent bulbs. You’ll notice on your electricity bills.
Windows
New homes have triple paned windows, older homes do not. If you don’t have the cash to replace your older windows, consider getting them resealed to reduce the draft. You could also use heavy, insulated or lined drapery to also help keep the heat from escaping.
Appliances are man’s best friend
I’m more of a washer half full, than half empty kind of gal, but remember to always use your appliances in the most efficient way possible. Don’t do a quarter load of laundry or run the dishwasher with only four glasses because there aren’t any clean ones, we all know better and that better adds up in savings every month.
So it isn’t rocket science, it’s every day. Find ways to turn off the lights when you leave a room, or maybe don’t leave the TV on when you have a shower. I’ve been guilty of all these things and more but with a new spring beginning I may just find a way to try on this green look. It’s a great colour on me!
