Eco-friendly Tips for a More Sustainable Home

Authored by Andrew Brusnahan

For many, adopting eco-friendly practices around the house is not only manageable but also budget-friendly compared to large-scale investments like solar panels. From the kitchen to the bathroom and beyond, green possibilities vary from one room to another. However, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming, particularly for larger homes. Don't fret; I'm here to guide you with eco-friendly tips to tackle each room one by one, ensuring you make all the changes you aim for.

Eco-Friendly Tips for the Kitchen

The kitchen is a hub for energy-hungry appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, mixers, toasters, and can openers. It's an area that can significantly benefit from energy-saving measures.

1. Optimize Refrigerator Temperature: To ensure your refrigerator maintains food at an optimal temperature (35-38 degrees F) without working excessively, use a thermometer. If the temperature is too warm or cold, adjust the settings accordingly. An overly warm refrigerator promotes bacterial growth, while excessive coldness consumes more energy.

2. Minimize Multiple Refrigerators: If you have more than one refrigerator, consider downsizing. Multiple refrigerators, especially older models, can be energy hogs. Dispose of the extra one responsibly through recycling centers or charities.

3. Shield from Sunlight: Direct sunlight on your refrigerator can cause it to work harder. If possible, move the refrigerator out of direct sunlight or hang a curtain to shield it.

4. Check and Replace Seals: Ensure your refrigerator and freezer door seals are intact. A loose seal allows cold air to escape, increasing energy consumption. Test the seal by closing a dollar bill in the door and gently pulling it. If it slips out easily, consider replacing the gasket.

5. Efficient Dishwashing: Contrary to popular belief, dishwashers can be more efficient than handwashing, especially for full loads. Look for Energy Star-rated dishwashers, which can use as little as four gallons of water per load, compared to over 20 gallons for handwashing.

Eco-Friendly Tips for the Bathroom

The bathroom can contribute to water wastage due to issues like leaky faucets and inefficient toilet components. Here's how to make your bathroom more eco-friendly.

1. Fix Leaks: Even minor leaks from faucets or pipes can add up and waste thousands of gallons of water each month. Regularly check for and fix leaks to save both water and money.

2. Opt for Efficient Showerheads: Replace your standard showerhead with a low-flow one that produces 1.5 to 2 gallons of water per minute. This can significantly reduce water consumption and heating costs.

3. Lower Water Heater Temperature: Reduce your water heater temperature from the default 140 degrees Fahrenheit to around 120 degrees. This simple change can save energy and prolong the water heater's life.

4. Check for Toilet Leaks: Leaky toilets can waste gallons of water. Use food coloring to check for leaks; if the coloring seeps into the bowl after a few hours, consider replacing the flapper.

Eco-Friendly Tips for the Living Room

The living room is a high-traffic area where energy efficiency can make a significant impact. Here's how to make your living room more eco-friendly.

1. Combat Energy Vampires: Electronic devices like TVs, gaming consoles, and stereos often consume energy even when turned off. Use power strips to easily disconnect these devices when not in use.

2. Switch to Efficient Lighting: Replace incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient CFL or LED bulbs. LED bulbs, in particular, have a longer lifespan and consume less energy.

3. Utilize Natural Light: Open curtains and blinds during the day to maximize natural lighting, reducing the need for artificial lighting. This also allows you to cut down on air conditioning usage.

4. Houseplants for Air Quality: Adding indoor plants can help purify the air, recycling particulates and improving indoor air quality. Some NASA-recommended plants include English Ivy, Peace Lily, and Chinese Evergreen.

Eco-Friendly Tips for the Laundry Room

The laundry room houses power-hungry appliances like washing machines and dryers. Implement these strategies to make your laundry routine more eco-friendly.

1. Use Cold Water: Washing clothes in cold water reduces energy consumption significantly. Use cold water-specific detergents for effective cleaning.

2. Full Loads Only: Wait until you have a full load of laundry before running the washing machine. Running partial loads wastes energy and water.

3. Clean the Dryer Lint Filter: Regularly clean the lint filter in your dryer to maintain its efficiency and reduce the risk of fire hazards.

4. Embrace Energy-Saving Features: Newer washing machines and dryers often come with sensors that optimize cycles based on load size or dryness. Take advantage of these features to save energy and reduce wear and tear.

By adopting these eco-friendly practices room by room, you can contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective home without breaking the bank. Small changes add up and make a significant impact on the environment and your budget, all while creating a positive sense of responsibility for a greener future.