ENERGY EFFICIENCY

  • Use fluorescent light bulbs.
  • Upgrade to dimmer switches to save energy and nearly double the lifespan of your bulbs.
  • Unplug or switch off power strips for small appliances and electronics when not in use.
  • Always clean the lint filter on the clothes dryer after each use; a clogged filter will reduce dryer performance.
  • Install a programmable thermostat to save on heating and cooling bills. You can set the thermostat according to your household's lifestyle patterns, and avoid wasting energy when no one is home.
  • Keep your chimney's flue closed when not in use.
  • Wash only full loads, in cold water whenever possible. If you are washing a small load of clothing, be sure to change the load setting.

Save up to 33%—as much as $200 annually—on heating and cooling bills by installing a programmable thermostat and setting it to 78° during the day and 72° at night.


WATER WISE

  • Utilize highly efficient plumbing fixtures and appliances. Install WaterSense labeled toilets and faucets.
  • Wash only full loads in the dishwasher and washing machine. If you are washing a small load of clothing, be sure to change the load setting. Use cold water settings whenever possible.
  • Take advantage of your dishwasher's "eco" setting to reduce water use.
  • Turn off the water while shaving, brushing your teeth, or washing your hands, and take shorter showers.
  • Water the lawn or garden during the coolest part of day to avoid evaporation; early morning is best.
  • Use a broom, not a hose, to clean outdoor areas.
  • Learn to reuse and recycle. Don't pour water down the drain when there may be another use for it, such as cleaning or watering plants.
  • Fix leaky faucets or running toilets, which can save approximately 20 gallons of water per day.


HEALTHY HOME

  • Regularly maintain your heating and cooling system to avoid the build-up of dust and moisture.
  • Use non-toxic cleaning products.
  • Add household sponges to the dishwasher before you run it to keep them clean.
  • Be aware of what goes down the drain. Harmful chemicals in cleaning solutions can contaminate groundwater systems, harming animals and even other people.
  • Use paints with lower levels of VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
  • Clean or replace filters in your furnace.
  • Install mold-resistant carpet pads.
  • Install a water filtration system to remove contaminants and sediment, and eliminate chlorine taste and odor.
  • Install a carbon monoxide detector, since the odorless, colorless gas is impossible to detect otherwise.
  • Use biodegradable shampoos and soaps, and buy rechargeable batteries. Leaking mercury from used batteries can contaminate water systems.


SUSTAINABLE SOURCES

  • Reduce, reuse and recycle as much as possible.
  • Install Corian® countertops, which contain 6% to 13% recycled content.
  • Choose carpets that contain recycled or recyclable content like Anso and Nylon 6 face fiber.
  • Select shelving, cabinets and interior doors made from recycled wood particles.


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