Save by Going Green
Many people think that going green will mean you will have to spend a lot of money doing so. This however, is not always the case. Here are four things you can do around your home to help not only the environment but your budget.
Getting a Home Energy Audit on your Home
If you want you can hire a professional to do a home energy audit or you can go to the U.S. Department of Energy website and get a do it yourself list from there. The amount you are able to save from this energy check can vary based on the home. You will want to check things such as air leaks, insulation, lighting and the energy your appliances use. Keep in mind that sealing air leaks can save your between 5% and 30% on your energy bill.
Homemade Cleaning Products
Homemade cleaners are better for the environment and your wallet. Most of what you will need is already in your cabinets, this includes things like vinegar and baking soda. Many people believe the homemade products even work better than the store bought which continues to make them more desirable.
Giving Yourself Shade
If you are tired of spending a lot of money cooling your home, planting trees can be the way to go. By planting trees in the correct and optimal spaces you can decrease your cooling bill by 15 to 50%. If you are afraid about how much this will cost you, consider making a donation to the Arbor Day Foundation. A $10 donation allows you to receive 10 free trees for you to plant.
Getting Money for your Old Electronics
Companies like Gazelle will now pay you money for your old electronics. So there should be no more throwing away of these electronics in the trash and putting more waste into our landfills. Just go to their website, find your device, and send it to them. They will inspect your device and pay you for it. There is now no excuse for so many electronics to be put into our landfills because people are getting paid to send them in.
Going green does not have to be difficult or cash consuming process. By making a few DIY adjustments to your lifestyle and home, you can save money while also doing your part to the environment. So take the time to do a little research and make the necessary updates and upgrades to get your home green-friendly.