There’s a little secret to green living: While it might seem like something that is strictly altruistic, it can also be good for your wallet. As you make the switch to a more energy-conscious lifestyle, it might seem like things cost a bit more. However, over the long term, you’ll end up saving money as you make adjustments that are more environmentally friendly.
The pressure to go green can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that even by making small steps, you’re moving in the right direction. Some projects, like installing solar panels or switching to a tankless water heater, require some professional guidance; other environmentally friendly changes can be made easily and on the cheap.
Consider these ideas that can get you started — or add to the eco-conscious changes you’ve already begun making — for $50 or less.
Mind the gaps. Homes aren’t completely air tight — and they don’t necessarily need to be hermetically sealed. However, gaps, cracks and holes in your house can let in outside air that causes you to consume greater amounts of energy, in the form of heat or air conditioning. Making your home more energy efficient can be quick and easy — and there are plenty of ways to do it. Depending on the size and location of the gap, a foam sealant might do the trick, or you could use caulk or weatherstripping.
See the light. Perhaps one of the quickest, easiest and cheapest ways to incorporate eco friendly products into your home is to make the switch from conventional light bulbs to fluorescent lights. Now, if you’re thinking that you don’t want those long tubes with the harsh, cold light, think again. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) have come a long way from your standard industrial lighting. They fit in your normal light fixtures, and new versions have a softer, warmer glow, but the bonus is that they can cut your lighting costs by as much as 75 percent. They also last far longer than conventional bulbs. However, it’s important to remember that you shouldn’t throw away CFLs with your household trash — your local waste management program can tell you where to properly dispose of them.
Get with the program. Are you constantly adjusting your home’s thermometer? Not only is that a bothersome chore, but it could mean that you’re wasting energy. Switching to a programmable thermostat is environmentally friendly because it can help you automatically cut back on the amount of energy you consume. It’s easy to find programmable models under $50 and install them yourself. And according to the U.S. Department of Energy, it can cut your heating costs by up to 10 percent.
Along with adding low-cost environmentally friendly products to your home, you can also be greener by remembering to unplug unused lights and appliances, shut off the lights in unoccupied rooms and recycle. You’ll be saving your dollars — and the earth.
