We might be seeing the end of the recession within Canada; however it does not mean that you should not try to save money where you can. With this said, a great way to save money is to add some green to your home. Making your home green is not a difficult task, and it allows you to save a few hundred dollars over the years to come.
Here are a few ways to make your home a little greener.
1. Install a Programmable Thermostat
Replace your old thermostat with a programmable thermostat, which will allow you to save both energy and money. To do this, it simply takes a few minutes to program the thermostat as when to start and at what temperature. You can have it turn off in the middle of the night once the house has reached the desired temperature.
2. Install Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
By replacing your regular light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs you save 66% less energy and they typically last up to 10 times longer. This type of lighting will not only save you energy and money but it will provide a brighter and softer light.
3. Watering with Schedule
Keeping your lawn in check can cause you to spend a lot of money if you do not watch your water usage. To do this, install timers on your sprinklers and have it manage programmed to have the water come on a night (less demand for water). You can also program how long the water will be kept on during this time, I would suggest 15 minutes.
4. Energy Star Appliances
Purchase energy star appliances, they are designed for you to save money. They use less energy which will ultimately save you money. Energy star appliances might cost a little more than your average appliances however the amount of savings you will gain will be worth it.
5. Unplug Unused Appliances
Any appliance that is plugged in uses a miniscule amount of energy, it might be small but it adds up over a period of time. By unplugging unused appliances you avoid this and it will save you money, even if it is a couple of dollars a month.
With the tips I have laid out, you are sure to save both money and energy in the years to come. The best part is that you are able to lower your carbon footprint which allows the environment to stay green for the future generations.
Samuel Pack is a Sales Representative with Royal LePage R.E.S. Johnston & Daniel Division. Sam’s website is located www.primetorontoproperties.com. Sam is a regular contributor to Toronto’s Muddy York Real Estate Blog.
