Green My Existing Home
There are numerous ways to make simple changes to your existing home that can make substantial difference in the overall performance and efficiency of your home. Below are a few suggestions to consider as ways to "green" your existing home.
Start with a Home Energy Audit
Determine where you may be losing energy, how efficient your heating and cooling systems are; and ways to conserve energy
Home Energy Rating System (HERS) - standard measure of home efficiency used by area professional energy raters
Plug Air Leaks
Stopping or minimizing drafts can save between 5% - 30% annual energy cost
Check for gaps around baseboards, wall & ceiling junctures, electrical outlets, switch plates, window frames, weather stripping, fireplace dampers, attic doors, foundation seals
Seal leaks with caulk, weather stripping
Replace windows with new, high performing low-E windows
Insulation
In older homes, the amount of insulation in ceilings & walls may be insufficient
Fill gaps in any opening with expanding foam - use flexible caulk
If your home lacks vapor barrier - consider painting interior ceilings with vapor barrier paint
Heating & Cooling Equipment
Seal leaky ducts with Mastic
Have equipment professionally checked & cleaned annually
Replace filters when dirty - or every 30-60 days
Consider replacing units more than 15 years old
Switch to Compact Fluorescent Light
Replacing just 5 incandescent bulbs with CFLs can save you $100 per year on electricity bills
Use a Programmable Thermostat
When no one is in home or everyone is sleeping...set temperature to 78 degrees in summer and 62 degrees in winter
Buy Energy Star Appliances
Reduce Water Waste
Add inexpensive aerators to your sink faucets
Change to low-flow showerheads & dual flush toilets
Reduce shower time by 1-2 minutes saving gallons of water
Use no-or low-Volatile Organic Compound Paints & Cleaning Products
Strive to buy LOCAL products
Use Wood Alternatives or Sustainable Wood Products
Plant Trees to provide shade and wind protection
Plant native plants that require less water & fertilizer
Switch to clean and renewable energy sources