Simple Ways to Live Green—and Save Money!

We all know that living green is good for the environment, but with such a big scope like that, it can be hard to see the tangible benefits, for both you and the environment. So here’s one for you: living green can save you money! You can save on your energy and water bills, you can reduce your gas mileage and you can save on the groceries and home supplies you buy. Try incorporating the following tips into your lifestyle and see how much money you can save by living green:

1.       Set your thermostat two degrees cooler in the winter and two degrees warmer in the summer. Blankets and fans can help you make up for those lost degrees.

2.       Ensure the proper insulation of your walls and ceilings.

3.       Use caulk and/or weather-stripping to seal any leaks around windows and doors.

4.       Install compact fluorescent light bulbs wherever you can.

5.       Turn off the lights when leaving the room.

6.       Unplug appliances and electronics when not in use. You can also purchase a “smart” power strip that senses when these items are off and cuts phantom energy use.

7.       When shopping for new appliances, choose models that are Energy Star rated.

8.       Wash your clothes in cold water and only when you have full loads. As much as 85 percent of a washing machine’s energy consumption goes toward heating water.

9.       Shave time off your showers to reduce your water usage.

10.   Prepare at least one vegetarian meal a week.

11.   When grocery shopping, purchase locally raised/grown, humane and organic meat, eggs, dairy and produce whenever possible. Bonus: purchasing from local farmers keeps money in the local economy.

12.   Recycle glass, aluminum, paper and plastics.

13.   Install a water purifier instead of buying bottled water to reduce waste.

14.   Use washable, reusable mugs and water bottles (aluminum or glass) for work and school, rather than using Styrofoam or plastic products.

15.   Use washable plates and utensils whenever eating at home or throwing parties.

16.   Donate or recycle old electronics (computers, cell phones etc.). E-waste contains mercury and other toxins and should stay out of landfills.

Protecting the environment helps you protect your home and loved ones as well. Call Gardiner Allen DeRoberts Insurance at (614) 221-1500 for more information on Columbus homeowners insurance.