How to Go Green at Home

Even the smallest of actions can have lasting environmental effects. Going green at home gives people the opportunity to reduce their impact on the environment and to ensure that clean air and water are available for future generations. You can spend a lot to go green, but just a few inexpensive changes can make a difference.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Use less electricity. Switch to compact fluorescent bulbs each time you replace an old incandescent bulb. Compact fluorescents save 75 percent in energy use and last up to 10 times longer. As a bonus, you'll save money on your electric bill.

2. Run the washer, dryer and dishwasher only with full loads. You reduce both electricity and water usage by only running these appliances when necessary.

3. Install a low-flow shower head. The newest models still produce strong water pressure while using much less water.

4. Retrofit your hot-water system with a hot-water recirculation pump. These pumps recirculate cold water back to the water heater and only release water when it is hot. Go green and quit wasting water waiting for the cold water to get hot.

5. Choose Zero VOC paints for your next home decorating project. Most paints contain toxic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are released into the air when you paint. VOCs can cause short and long term health problems.

6. Look for furnishings made without glue or formaldehyde. This will green your home by improving your indoor air-quality.

7. Recycle, reuse and compost. Reduce the amount of stuff you send to the landfill. Find out about recycling programs in your community. Find new uses for items. Compost yard waste and kitchen scraps.

8. Properly dispose of hazardous waste. Cleaners, oils, paints, pesticides, batteries and solvents should never go out with the household garbage; they end up contaminating the soil and groundwater in your community. Contact your city government or the EPA to find out how to properly dispose of these items.

Tips & Warnings

• When you need to replace a household appliance, go green and look for appliances with the Energy Star label.

• Have your heating and cooling systems checked each season. You can keep green by making sure there are no leaks and the systems are working efficiently.

• When building or remodeling, choose recycled building materials, reclaimed wood and the most energy-efficient insulations and appliances.

Resources

• Visit the Environmental Protection Agency for tips to go green at home