With "green" I don't mean being envious, or the US Dollar, although going green does have something to do with saving money. As most people know, "living green" means to be environmentally conscious, and what better place to start making green choices than at right at home. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, about 21 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions are generated from household energy use. Using less energy and water will consequently help you save your "green-backs".

Consider these five simple options:

1. Re-use and Recycle

Separate your trash into waste and recyclables. Re-use as much as possible and be conscious about purchasing recycled products.

2. Insulate

Use plenty of insulation between your living space and any unheated areas such as the attic, the exterior walls, basement and garage.

3. Choose new  Appliances

When it's time to replace appliances, look for energy saving models with the energy star lable. Whether washers, dryers, refrigerators or dishwashers, government-rated Energy Star labeled appliances use 25 percent to 75 percent less energy than unrated appliances. 

3. Lower the Temperature:

Lowering your heat thermostat by just one or two degrees can have a significant impact on your heating bills. Slightly lowering the temperature of your water heater will most likely not even be noticeable, except in your wallet. For a more drastic measure, install tank-less water heaters. Since they produce hot water only on demand, they use 45%-60% less energy than traditional water heaters and have a much longer life span.

4. Replace Light Bulbs

Replace your old incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs. They produce just as much light as incandescent bulbs but require up to 75 percent less energy, produce less heat, and last up to 10 times longer.

5. Reduce Drafts

Caulk leaks and add weather-stripping to doors and windows to stop heat and air conditioning losses.

By implementing any, or all of these recommendations, you're on your way to living a greener life and will be a better steward of our resources.

For more ideas on how to make green choices, feel free to contact me. I'm a member of the Olympia Master Builder's Built Green program.

Sandy Nelson
Realtor for Olympia area real estate
www.sandynelsonrealestate.com