How to ‘green’ your home with three small steps

When it comes to selling a home, research by U.C. Berkeley found that ‘green-labeled’ homes sell for up to nine percent more than their non-green counterparts.

Homes which earn a green label generally consist of energy-efficient walls, windows, air ducts, heating and cooling systems, lighting and appliances. While a worthy cause, not everyone will remodel to meet green certifications or move into a ‘green’ house this year.

However, there are a few simple ways every homeowner can do their part in contributing to a healthier environment.

Lighting: Replacing traditional incandescent light bulbs with bulbs that save more energy, like halogen incandescents, compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) can save 25-80 percent on energy. Additionally, these bulbs typically last 3-25 times longer.

Recycling: Today’s average individual produces four pounds of trash each day, that’s about 1.5 tons of solid waste per year! More than 75 percent of waste is recyclable, but only 30 percent is recycled. Get a separate bin for recyclable material and place it next to your trash can – it is a little step which makes a lasting impact on the environment.

Water: The U.S. Geological Survey found that the average individual uses 80-100 gallons of water each day. Home owners can reduce this usage most easily by fixing leaks. On average, 14 percent of daily indoor water use is consumed by leaks. A second simple step toward conserving water is to purchase water-efficient shower heads and faucets.

As you bask in the summer sun this summer, consider taking a few measures to green your home. These measures may turn into selling points if your home is on the market!