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5 Ways to Go Green

By Amy Patterson

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1. Unplug…everything – This may seem like a small gesture, but according to the U.S. Department of Energy, 5% to 10% of energy costs are generated by appliances and devices that are plugged in 24 hours a day (even those not in use). If your average electric bill is $100 a month, you could save up to $120 a year.

 

2. Switch your bulbs – Switching from traditional incandescent to CFL bulbs can save you up to $300 a year.

 

3. Turn off the water – Even leaving it on for two minutes while you brush your teeth can add up – those two minutes, twice a day, total out to be over 24 hours annually.

 

4. Invest in rechargeable batteries – Yes, they are more expensive initially, however, with the amount of batteries a normal consumer goes through in a year, you’ll quickly be re-compensated by the yearly cost of rechargables, which is less than a quarter.

 

5. Utilize natural light – keeping your blinds open all day long is an easy way to cut your costs for lighting daily and heating seasonally. 

Tags: DIY, Green Living, Home