Homeowners can save by "Going GREEN"

“Going Green” isn’t just good for the planet’s ecosystem; it’s healthier for you and your family, and may even benefit your finances too.

What It Means to Go Green?

Many people are now pursuing livable communities and an environmentally responsible lifestyle that is mindful of the following goals:

• Maximizing energy efficiency and minimizing the use of polluting fossil fuels • Conserving the limited water supply
• Preserving the earth’s valuable natural resources and limiting waste production
• Improving air and water quality by avoiding harmful chemicals and pesticides.

Here are some easy and inexpensive ways you can make a positive impact:

If you are willing to give them a try, these thrifty habits will reduce day-to-day water and energy consumption and lower your utility bills:

• Turn off the water in the sink or shower while you brush your teeth, scrub or shave, then turn it on again to rinse.
• Lower the temperature setting on your water heater to 120º and wash only full loads of dishes or clothes.
• Make a sweep through each room before bed and turn off all electrical devices, including computers and printers. Unplugging appliances or using power strips will avoid “phantom” energy drain, as most electronics draw a small amount of power even when they are turned off.
• Set your thermostat at 70º or below in the winter months; your heating costs could rise 4 to 6% for every degree above 70.

Grow Savings in Your Own Organic Garden

If you have a little bit of land and a green thumb, you could slash your grocery bill by as much as $800 a year. Using natural fertilizers made from composted plant and animal materials avoids the  environmental and health concerns associated with synthetic products full of chemicals and pesticides.