Living the greener life
The term "greener living" is everywhere. It’s a lifestyle change that not only saves the environment but your wallet as well. Follow these 6 tips for a cheaper, efficient and greener life.
If you're in the market for new appliances - think before you buy. By purchasing Energy Star Rated appliances and fixtures, you will not only consider the environment, but you may save yourself money in the long run as well.
If you can only replace one appliance at a time, start by replacing your geyser or refrigerator. These two fixtures alone account for a hefty percentage of your monthly electricity bill.
1. Stay turned on to the environment
Investing in an Energy Star rated TV ensures that you will save money while helping the environment. Some TVs, such as LED, use up to 50% less energy than conventional TVs.
Additionally you can now buy HD TVs, flatscreen LCDs and top-of-the-line plasma TVs that are Energy Star qualified.
Products are only allowed to display the Energy Star rating when they meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. For TVs, it means they save energy both in standby and active modes.
Energy Star qualified TVs use about 30% less energy than standard units.
According to the Department of Energy website the grading A-G is determined by the South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) and the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) and it is described in the relevant standard for each electrical appliance. For more Energy Star rating information click here.
2. The kitchen goes green
The kitchen is probably the one room in the home that benefits the most for energy saving appliances.
From oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine and more, most of these appliances are power hungry. One green appliance that everyone should own is an Energy Star rated refrigerator.
Also, you can save both water and electricity by washing dishes by hand. If you must have a dishwasher in your kitchen - make sure it's Energy Star rated.
3. Get wired up for a greener planet!
If you work from home or spend time in front of the computer, here's another way to become more energy efficient.
Your PC, monitor, printer and scanner are all electronic devices that use a fair amount of power
Switch to Energy Star rated office equipment to keep your office running smoothly and green.
4. Say good night to poor quality
Cotton is one of the most comfortable fabrics to have on your bed. Cotton is extremely versatile and the strongest of the natural fibres, with the exception of wool. Cotton is easily dyed, which means almost unlimited colour options.
It also permits the flow of air, which allows the fabric to breathe and this is what makes cotton comfortable in both winter and summer. Replace synthetic-blend bed sheets with pure, natural cotton, or add elegant luxury Egyptian cotton with bed linen.
And don't forget about the en suite. Pure cotton towels are absorbent and guaranteed to stay looking good for longer.
5. Fresh laundry for less
If your washing machine is more than 10 years old, you can use about 50 percent less energy and save money simply by switching to a new Energy Star rated washing machine.
Did you know that a larger washer uses more water and energy to heat and run. Work out the amount of laundry you do every week to determine the capacity of washer you need. If possible, hang your clothes outside in the sun to dry rather than using a tumble dryer.
6. Don't flush money down the toilet
From low-flow showerheads and toilets to aerated faucets, you can find many products that conserve energy and water in your bathroom.
Having recently renovated my bathroom, I installed a toilet that offers low-flush and full-flush options.
That's just one way to reduce flushing water away. Alternatively, a 1 litre plastic bottle filled with water will reduce water usage in a conventional toilet.
Article courtesy of: www.home-dzine.co.za
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