Remember, your home is a system of interrelated parts. For example, an energy-efficient cooling system delivers savings only if ducts, windows, doors and walls are properly insulated. Low-flow toilets can also lower your water bill; however, you should also check and repair leaks in other areas of your home. The following simple steps can help you create a greener place to live.

Use Less Energy

No-Cost Changes
Turn Off Lights	Turn off lights when not in use. Use timers to turn one or two lights on and off at night when you are away from home.
Turn Off Computers	Put computers in sleep mode when not in use. Turn them off at night or when not in use for more than 2 hours.
Unplug Electronics	Unplug electronics and appliances — even phone chargers — that are used infrequently. They use electricity even when turned off.
Change The Thermostat	Set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher in the summer and at 68 degrees or lower in the winter.
Change Filters	Inspect furnace or air conditioner (AC) filters once each month and clean or replace them as needed. Dirty filters restrict air flow, forcing equipment to work harder, increasing your energy bill.
Window Coverings	Keep window coverings closed during hot months to help keep heat out. In winter, let in the heat from the sunlight.
Wash In Cold Water	Wash laundry in cold water, which is easier on fabrics. Use cold water detergent for best results.
Air Dry Clothing	Save energy by air drying clothes indoors or out.
Wait For Full Loads	Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when full.
Reset Water Heaters	Set water heaters to 120 degrees. Lowering the temperature from 140 degrees to 120 degrees may save from 6%–10% in water heating costs.

Low-Cost Changes
Replace Light Bulbs	As existing incandescent bulbs go out, replace them with compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). They cost more upfront but use less energy and last 10 times longer than standard light bulbs. Avoid halogen bulbs, which generate excessive heat and can become fire hazards.
Use Fans	Install ceiling fans in frequently used rooms. They can lower air cooling and heating costs by 10%–40% and use less electricity than AC units. In summer, run fans counter-clockwise to circulate cool air. In winter, run fans clockwise to push warmer air down. For maximum benefits, install ENERGY STAR ceiling fans throughout your home.
Install Programmable Thermostats	When used correctly, an energy-efficient programmable thermostat can save you approximately $100 annually by automatically adjusting the temperature for you at regular intervals.
Plug Air Leaks	Air leakage is a leading cause of energy waste in most homes. Reducing air leaks can lower energy bills by 10% or more. Install added insulation to stop heat transfer in and out of your home. Keep the fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. An open damper is like an open window. Caulk and seal all seams, cracks and openings to the outside of your home. For more information visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s Insulation and Air Sealing Web page.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Save Water

No-Cost Changes
Turn Off Water	Do not run water constantly while brushing teeth, shaving or hand washing dishes.
Adjust Toilet Float Valves	Lower float valves on older toilets to lower the water level, but make sure there is enough water for proper flushing.
Take Shorter Showers	The average shower uses 25 gallons of water. A 5-minute shower uses approximately 12.5 gallons.

Low-Cost Changes
Install Low-Flow Showerheads	Save 1–2 gallons of water per minute (gpm) when showering under a low-flow showerhead. For maximum efficiency, select a showerhead with a flow rate less than 2.5 gpm.
Install Faucet Aerators	Equip sinks with faucet aerators to reduce the amount of water and energy used when washing dishes, washing your hands or brushing your teeth.
Install Low-Flow Toilets	When flushed, low-flow toilets use 1.6 gallons of water versus 3.5 gallons for older models.
Repair Leaking Toilets	A leaky toilet can waste 200 gallons of water per day.

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Maintain And Upgrade Systems

Whatever heating, ventilation and air conditioning system you use, you can increase your comfort and save money with proper maintenance and upgrades. Check owner's manuals for recommendations.

When replacing equipment and appliances, select ENERGY STAR qualified products, which use 10 percent to 50 percent less energy and water than standard models. Visit www.energystar.gov for more information.

Reduce Chemical Use

Cleaning supplies are a common source of harmful chemicals in the home. Many popular cleaning products leave chemical residue on countertops, sinks and floors and release toxins into the air. When labels warn you to wear gloves and avoid skin contact, you should consider other cleaning alternatives.

Organic, non-toxic cleaning products kill germs but are safe enough for you and your pets if accidently swallowed.

Natural products such as white vinegar, baking soda and lemon juice are inexpensive, effective and fresh smelling cleaning alternatives.

Buy And Remodel Green

When Buying A Home

Choose a location close to work, schools, shopping and places of entertainment. Or, live near available public transportation.

Downsize. A smaller living space consumes less energy.

Make sure heating and cooling systems work well, windows are double-paned, doors are well sealed and the home is well insulated. Consider performing an energy audit on your home. You can hire a professional company to audit your home or you can perform your own audit. For more information on conducting your own audit, visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Audits Web page or contact your local electric company.

Look for homes with ENERGY STAR appliances and other energy-efficient products.

Ask about homes meeting the EPA's guidelines for energy efficiency.

Look outside. Deciduous trees provide shade in summer, then lose their leaves to let natural light heat your home in winter. Does the yard provide space for growing vegetables?

When Remodeling

Replace old appliances with ENERGY STAR appliances.

Replace single-pane windows with low-emissivity (low-E) or ENERGY STAR double-pane windows. Low-E is a coating of invisible metal on glass that reduces energy loss.

Choose eco-friendly paint, flooring and other products.

Incorporate green remodeling guidelines developed by The American Society of Interior Designers' Foundation and the U.S. Green Building Council. Visit www.regreenprogram.org for details.

Next: Green At Work

Updated Thursday, July 29, 2010