So you have an old house but you still want to think and live green. Here are a few tips that can help you retrofit and teach your old Central Ohio home a new "Green " trick.
•1. Replace old windows with energy efficient windows. If replacing windows is not in the budget prevent drafts with caulk or seal the window off with plastic.
•2. By using recycled flooring products we can reduce our dependency on fossil fuel and. Using natural fiber rugs and flooring is also effective in reducing oil requirements.
•3. When you think paint ...think "Green". Not only does it helps shrink our carbon footprint it is a wonderful way to improve indoor air quality in your Central Ohio home.
•4. Replace old fashioned light bulbs with LED lights which are more reliant and energy efficient. Studies show that by replacing your 5 most used light you will save $100 per year.
•5. When looking to replace appliances look for energy star products. These products save 10-30% on the operating costs.
•6. Add a programmable thermostat. This can save you about 10% on your heating and cooling bill every year.
•7. Plug leaks around doors and plumbing and electrical outlets. These are areas that often go forgotten in our quest to make homes more energy efficient.
•8. Installing a water heater jacket around your water heater and wrapping your pipes is another cost effective way to green up your home and save money.
•9. By spending $100 dollars every two years to have a professional check out your HVAC you can save you 10-15% on your heating and cooling bill each year.
•10. $285 dollars per year can be saved by installing low-flow faucet and shower systems. These systems do not affect water pressure.
Even if you do just one or two of these suggestions they will help your save money and help the environment too.
For More Green Ideas See: Thinking Spring....Think Green for your Landscape
If you are looking for more cost effective tips to help your home sell call me at 614-273-6406 or email me at Vanessa.simmons@realliving.com
Thank you for sharing such smart advice for anyone that owns a home. There are so many ways to get with the program!
Hi Vanessa, Good post. Thanks for sharing. Keep posting best.
Best - Sash
Just beware on the hot water heater jacket - this may void your warranty! Check with your manufacturer. If your water heater is warm to the touch, it lacks sufficient insulation. However, if it is room temp or cool to the touch, installing a jacket is unnecessary.
Jim thanks for stopping by and your comments
Sasha- Thanks for your comment
Karen- You are right I did read that when I was researching the blog thanks for the comment.
Vanessa, that was a very well-written informative post. Even if people do only a few things on that list, it can make a difference. Have a great weekend.
Dan
Dan and Amy thanks for the comment and for stopping by.
Vanessa,
What great advice! I'm sure your clients appreciate the information. Thanks!
Vanessa-
Good information on a timely subject. Thanks.
Mary thanks I am trying a few of these tips myself. I did all my light bulbs last fall and it has made a great difference on our electric bill.