Going green to save the planet has been a popular motto used by all kinds of people.
From politicians to the everyday homeonwer, all of us have been affected by the cry
for a more environmentally-conscious lifestyle and want to do something about it.
The truth is sustainable living does not have to take a lot of work.
It just requires some deliberation and a little change of style, sure, but it is completely doable.
Here are 5 ways to help you to go green on your home without breaking an arm!
Power up Your Home with the Right Power
There are two main light bulbs out there: incandescent and fluorescent.
Incandescent lights produce light by heating up a filament inside the bulb, while their
fluorescent neighbor activates phosphor coating to achieve the same result.
Whereas the majority of the electric energy is converted into heat in an incandescent
light bulb, fluorescent lights are more energy efficient because they do not use heat to
create light and can last minimally up to 6,000 hours, which is three times longer than
their incandescent counterpart.
Consider Alternative More Energy Conscious Windows
Windows are great sources for light and ventilation.
Energy efficient windows are those that have met certain criteria for thermal performance,
durability, and longevity.
They are well-sealed and usually have some kind of low-emissivity coating to help control solar
heat gain and loss on hot days.
According to Energy.Gov, “reflective coatings reduce the transmission of solar radiation, and
spectrally selective coatings filter out 40% to 70% of the heat normally transmitted through
insulated window glass or glazing, while allowing the full amount of light to be transmitted.”
For homeowners who do not have the budget to upgrade their windows in a single hit, you can
always boost the energy efficiency of your windows through caulking and weatherstripping.
Use also a variety of window treatments and accessories to conserve energy and liven up your
architectural designs.
Power Down or Power Off When Away
If you have fluorescent lights, you should turn them off when you will be away for more than
15 minutes.
Unplug all used powers in the night to save energy and give your hardworking machines a
generous break.
For homeowners who like to keep their AC or heater running while they are away, we recommend
you to try and adjust the temperature to relieve your escalating utility bill, while still enjoying a
nice cool (or warm) home on your return.
Use a digital thermostat so you can pre-program your routine and let the computer automatically
power down or power off for you around the clock.
Metal Roofing
As the structure that covers the top of your building, your roof is in direct contact with incoming sunlight.
This means that your roofing material will play a big role in absorbing or radiating solar heat.
Metal roofs have naturally high solar reflectance rate.
In addition to lasting two to three times longer than popular roofing materials like asphalt shingles, metal
roofs can keep your house cool and save you up to 40% of your energy expenditure.
You’re also welcome to install solar panels right on your metal roof to maximize the benefits of the sun
and even get tipped for extra energy production!
About the Author:
Paul Kazlov is a “green” home remodeling enthusiast and an industry pioneer for innovation in home renovation. Paul writes for the Global Home Improvement blog and strives to educate people about “green” products such as metal roofing and solar. Follow him on Twitter @PaulKazlov
What are you are doing to live greener in your home?
Share your tips, thoughts and comments with us.
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Metal roofing sounds really good.
Hi Deborah,
Excellent post! Thank you so much for sharing these tips to go green at home. I find this article very helpful. Keep on posting helpful articles. Thanks!
Hi Elna,
I am so glad you enjoyed these green living tips. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I appreciate it.