Being sustainable means saving money. Here are a few easy ways to save money and the environment.
Reducing Energy Use.
- The Department of Energy suggests turning down the thermostat on your water heater to 120ºF can reduce your gas bill.
- Maintaining a clean air filter can reduce blockage which can strain your HVAC system leading to possible damages.
- Use compact fluorescent or LED light bulbs instead of standard incandescent bulbs. By changing one light bulb the average person saves 12 dollars a year. You can find additional information about energy efficient lighting here.
- Updating your weather stripping around doors and windows and adding insulation to your attic will cut heating and cooling costs.
- Consider Microsoft Hohm, a free Web-based beta application that helps you save energy and money. With Microsoft Hohm you can better understand your home energy usage, get recommendations to conserve energy and start saving. For more information about how to sign up, visit the Microsoft Hohm information page.
- Consult the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency for a comprehensive list of state, local, utility, and federal incentives and policies that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency.
- If you are interested in buying an energy efficient home or if you are considering making energy efficient improvements to your home read the Guide to Home Energy Efficiency.
Reducing Water Use.
Enhancing Air Quality.
Beautifying Your Lawn.
- Making a compost pile is a fun and cheap way to produce fertilizer for your lawn and reduces what you throw away.
- Plant a tree that absorbs carbon dioxide and provides shade on your home, reducing your cooling bills.
- Consult the Texas Urban Landscape Guide for information on effective landscape planning, design, maintenance, and irrigation.
- For more lawn and garden advice check out the Texas A&M Ag Extension.
- Texas SmartScape® provides an interactive how-to-guide for landscaping with drought tolerant plants native to North Central Texas in order to conserve water, protect the environment, and beautify your home.
Kids can practice sustainability, too! Check out these great educational links:
Find additional energy saving tips and tools by following these links: