Spring gives us all an opportunity for a fresh start. That’s often why so many home maintenance and deep cleaning tasks take place in the spring. It’s a chance for you to open the windows and welcome in the fresh air and sunshine.
This re-acquaintance with nature reminds us how connected we are with the planet. Unfortunately, generations of uneducated decisions around some of our habits have damaged the earth. We’ve learned a lot over the last couple of decades of what hurts the earth and what helps it.
Here is your easy-to-follow home guide to going green.
No more bottled water
If you are going to purchase and drink bottled water, make sure that you recycle that container.
You can eliminate that problem altogether by choosing to filter your water at home instead and carry it with you in a refillable container.
A home filtration system is easily installed right on your faucet (or at your water source if you prefer).
You’ve got clean, clear water ready whenever you want it without the negative environmental consequences.
Tankless water heaters save energy and money
As a homeowner, you’ll really like this green change. Switch your traditional storage tank water heater out for a tankless model. Tankless water heaters operate more efficiently, so you save money and the planet at the same time.
Storage tanks cycle heat around standing water every few hours. In the interim, the water loses heat, so you end up using more energy. Conversely, tankless heaters only heat water on demand.
Reduce your carbon footprint at home
To reduce your carbon footprint, remain mindful of choices that you make during household chores and activities.
Convert your home to solar power; close curtains during the day to keep the heat out; only purchase energy efficient appliances; never run the dishwasher half full.
Take showers instead of baths. If you do take a bath, don’t fill the tub to the top.
Remember to clean the coils on the back of the fridge. Don’t have a second fridge running that is half full. Buy locally sourced food, or better yet grow your own produce right at home. Plant more trees.
Upgrade to eco-friendly fixtures
If you are going to pick one room in your home to “greenify”, pick the bathroom because of all the water you use there.
Install low-flow showerheads and toilets that will still perform their duties well, but will use a fraction of the water that regular showerheads and toilets do.
For extra water conservation, install a motion sensor faucet, which means that the water is only running when you really need it.
Earth day on April 22
Take a moment on Earth Day to celebrate the planet and all the gifts it has to offer. Also, become educated about your role in preserving the environment.
Become informed about alternative sources of energy. Learn to cook meatless meals. Actively recycle. Participate in a fun run or bike rally.
Go to an Earth Day festival and listen to the music and learn from others about their Earth-friendly habits. Find out how you can amp up your recycling efforts at home.