With issues of global warming and plastic waste hitting the news, it’s clear we all need to do our bit for the environment. And the good news is that giving homes an ‘eco-makeover’ can save lots of money on household bills too. Some studies have shown that families can save over $3000 dollars a year by being ‘greener’. Sounds good? Follow these tips to make every room in the home eco-friendly and watch your bank balance grow.
In the kitchen
Reducing kitchen waste is the simplest money and energy saving tip for the heart of the home. Try creating a meal planner and shopping only for the ingredients on your list – a practice that’s kind to your budget and your body. Waste disposal units are popular, but the environmental impact of these is a hotly debated subject. An alternative could be to try composting and growing your own vegetables from scraps– a great way to eat organic food, lower food miles and reduce your carbon footprint. Plus, you’ll save even more money on groceries.
In the bedroom
Energy saving tips can be super stylish too. Any form of window blinds or thick curtain can help to insulate a room but when it comes to saving energy in the home not all blinds are equal. Cellular blinds have a honeycomb structure that traps air in an insulating layer; keeping homes cool in summer and warm in winter. Bedding can also be environmentally intelligent – try a pillow with cooling technology during summertime to cut down on air conditioning use. A four-season duvet will allow you to keep cozy in the winter but won’t let you overheat remove in the summer months.
In the living space
Much wasted energy (and money) in the home comes from leaving electronic items on standby. And the biggest culprits for this often live in the living room. Televisions, video games, and entertainment systems can be plugged into a power strip with a switch so that you can easily and conveniently flick them off standby at the end of the day. It’s thought this could save around $100 every year – just by flicking a switch. Similarly, when shopping for new electronics choose energy efficient options – if everyone in America did this it’s thought greenhouse gases could drop by billions of dollars.
In the bathroom
The simplest way to save energy and water is to take a shower instead of a bath. Installing an aerator on the faucet and shower head will also cut water usage by around half and there are also water saving toilets that can significantly reduce water usage. The idea of recycled toilet paper might sound disgusting but it’s a great way to care for the environment (and it’s not actually made from used toilet paper!)
Updating the home with an eco-focus is good for the environment and for your wallet. So, what are you waiting for? Give your rooms an eco-makeover and start saving today!
