This Earth Day, we’re bringing you 10 practical ideas you can use to make your home a more eco-friendly place!

1. Conduct a Home Energy Assessment
Brought to you by the U.S. Department of Energy, this simple audit can help you pinpoint energy efficient upgrades you can make in your home – be “greener” AND save money!
LEARN MORE

 

2. Switch to cloth napkins
Buy matching cloth napkins for the whole family, or let everyone choose their own pattern! Reuse napkins that aren’t too soiled, washing once a week.

 

 

3. Harvest your own rain water
Rain barrels of all shapes, styles & sizes are available from online retailers and local home stores.

4. Start using reusable shopping bags
Buy one every time you shop until you have enough.

5. Buy Energy Star Appliances
Energy Star Appliances help you conserve energy, and can help you save money! PLUS, Texas offers a Sales Tax Holiday on Energy Star Appliances Memorial Day Weekend (May 26-28, 2012).

6. Recycle!
It’s easier than you think! Click here for the City of Houston’s recycling resource.

7. Wash laundry at the coldest setting you can
This conserves energy and can help you save money!

8. Turn lights off when you aren’t using them
During the day, enjoy natural light instead of using the lights in your home.

9. Skip disposables
Repurpose when you can, and opt for reusable containers when possible (washable storage containers for food instead of disposable bags; washable water bottles filled at home instead of the pre-packaged kind).

10. Invest in a programmable thermostat
Programmable thermostats give you more control over the temperature in your home, so you can use less energy heating or cooling your home when you’re not there (and make sure your home is comfortable when you get home)!

 

These are just a few ways you can make your home a “greener” place. Have more ideas? Leave us a comment!

Happy Earth Day!

Until next time,
Your friends at The Loken Group