In my last article, we talked about saving money on major appliances like refrigerators, washers, dryers and dishwashers. Now let’s look at other ways to save money when you go “green”.

Showerheads
With the current water shortage, a great way to save water and money and energy that used to heat the water is to install low-flow showerheads. Some showerheads manufactured before 1992 use more than twice the water vs. low-flow showerheads made today, which can’t exceed 2.5 gallons per minute (gpm). For maximum water efficiency, select a showerhead with a flow rate of less than 2.5 gpm.

Skip the multiple water jets. Theoretically, each jet can spray 2.5 gallons per minute, so five jets use up to 12.5 gpm. Not only would that require extra water and energy to heat the water (which could require a larger, or dedicated hot water heater) the volume could swamp your septic system, and weak pressure would make the experience less of a blast than you might like.

Lighting
Replace your bulbs with CFLs. An average household dedicates 11 percent of its budget to lighting; and it is of one of the easiest places to start saving energy. CFLs, or compact fluorescent light bulbs, use around 75 percent less energy; and some claim to last up to 10 times longer than their incandescent cousins. Look for Energy Star-qualified CFLs because they have to meet tough standards for energy use, brightness, color, and bulb life. While they are pricier than incandescent bulbs, tests confirm that each CFL will save you about $5.00 a year in electricity costs over a regular bulb. Be aware that CFLs contain a small amount of mercury; and should be recycled at the end of their life. Check www.epa.gov/bulbrecycling for recycling options in your area.

Heating and Cooling
Heating and cooling use more energy than any other system in your home. Typically, 45 percent of your utility bill goes for heating and cooling. So before buying a new furnace or air conditioning system, check to see if your home is appropriately sealed and insulated. By doing so, you may be able to choose a smaller unit meaning a lower purchase price now and reduced utility bills for years to come.

Consider an energy-efficient model if you are looking to replace your old furnace. Because new furnaces are pricey, Consumer Reports has found that increased efficiency is not usually an economically valid reason to buy a new one. The efficiency of a new furnace is measured by the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE), the higher the AFUE, the more efficient the furnace. Today’s furnaces are required to have at least 78 percent AFUE. Energy Star-qualified furnaces must have an AFUE of 90 percent or higher, and some models on the market today exceed that. If you live in a cold climate, it makes sense to invest in the highest-efficiency system. A furnace with a 90 percent AFUE can cost about $1,000 more than a similarly sized unit with an 80 percent AFUE; but you save on your energy bill.

Programmable thermostats can help you cut your energy costs as much as 20 percent by automatically raising or lowering temperatures at night and when you are away.

It is easy to save money and go “green” when you replace old, worn out, or broken products with more efficient products that help our environment and save you money. Always remember that when somebody asks you to throw something away, simply reply, “there is no away”.

This article brought to you by A to Z Interiors of Raleigh, LLC.