Becoming Green-How to Protect Environment

Jan 16
09:58

2009

Karen Bellas

Karen Bellas

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Going green is what everyone is talking about these days. One of the most important ways to go green is in your home. Learn about improving the eco-friendliness of where you live.

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Environmentally friendly houses are a factor an excellent environment and save owners money. By lowering energy usage,Becoming Green-How to Protect Environment Articles energy bills become reduced and fewer harmful gasses are discharged into the earth's environment. This combination presents a true "win-win" opportunity for property owners. The course of going "green" may mean buying an energy efficient house, altering an existing property or changing to energy star appliances. There are also less costly ways to begin. Getting started does not have to be a prolonged process or complex. For example, there are now qualified energy experts who will calculate how energy is being used at your home, make beneficial recommendations and seal up leakage and drafts that are using up energy and causing unnecessary expense. These professionals charge modest fees that are quickly balanced by the result of their efforts. As usual, look for those with proper credentials then check references to ensure a successful outcome.

Control Your Home's Energy Usage and Bring Down Bills

Naturally, it is possible to conduct your own energy assessment. Begin by searching for leaks or drafts in cellars, attics, doors and windows. Examine baseboards and outlets. Block drafts, gaps and holes with beneficial solutions like caulk, spray foam or window insulating tape. Ask your local home store which items will solve your energy leaks. Check with local utility companies for particulars on peak energy hours. Bring Down appliance usage during those times and do not over or under load your dishwasher, washer or dryer. Heavy loads cause motors to work harder and create unneeded expense. Turn off all lights when exiting a room or your house.

Air conditioning charges can be lowered by closing curtains and blinds during the hottest times of the day and keeping the windows closed. It is also essential to choose a temperature to position your thermostat at and to stick with it. Fluctuating temperatures utilize more electricity than maintaining the air conditioning on the same temperature. Programmable thermostats keep a level temperature going and saves up to 20 percent on electric bills.

Purchase an Energy Efficient Property that is Built Green

If you are looking into buying a different home, you can purchase a "green" house? Today's creative home builders are putting up eco-friendly properties that come with excellent insulation, energy saving blinds and windows, and appliances that are invented to use little resources. You can obtain this type of house on the MLS or by contacting a local realtor. Aim to find an agent that specializes in eco-friendly houses. Buying an energy efficient property is a wise decision in the present real estate market. These homes are sought after and have a tendency to resell quickly. Buyers like living in modern homes that are invented to look after their welfare and let them be socially conscientious.

If the present is not quite the right time to buy, consider making home improvements that will modernize your home with the latest developments in eco-friendly living. Sustainable materials flooring, carpeting, cooling and window treatments are available that are energy efficient. You can even deduct certain types of pre-specified renovations on your taxes. Check with your accountant for details. Embark on eco-friendly lifestyle today and make the earth a better place!