Green Not Only for Trees

Within a relatively short time, the word “green” has come to be as widely understood as a way of life as of a color. The new definition, synonymous with sustainability, environmental and ecological sensitivity embodies the defining attribute of our planet as a healthy life supporting environment. It is generally accepted that losing the green attribute of earth means losing quality of life as we know it.

The green concept at one time identified with enthusiasts (cynically referred to as tree huggers) for the preservation of trees and forests, is now recognized as necessary in every sphere of our lives for our efforts to be effective. Green relates not only to tree and forestry preservation but also to the preservation of our natural resources, the creation of clean energy, maintaining clean air, clean water, clean fuel; to waste reduction, biodegradable garbage and healthy homes, the very preservation of our planet. Living green has become everyone’s responsibility.

With respect to real estate, the building industry is increasingly designing and constructing homes, offices, schools and other work spaces to meet green standards set by the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). They are motivated by the demands of clients interested in sustainable living, health and comfort concerns and incentives from corporations, municipal and state governments.

But what if the home you live in was built before green awareness extended to home construction? Are steps one can take to make a home more comfortable, energy-efficient and economical to maintain short of doing a full-scale green remodel? One can complete a do-it-yourself or a professional home energy audit to determine areas of inefficiency or waste.

Diagnostic steps could include:

• Checking insulation levels in attics, exterior and basement walls, ceilings, floor, crawl spaces
• Checking for cracks or holes around walls, ceilings, windows, light and plumbing fixtures, switches and electrical outlets
• Checking fireplaces for open dampers
• Checking appliances and heating and cooling systems for proper installation and maintenance.
• Following up by taking appropriate steps, most of which are easy and simple to do to correct the problem and align a home closer to green standards.

Remedial Efforts

• Install a programmable thermostat.
• Switch to compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs
• Air dry dishes instead of using the dishwasher drying cycle
• Turn off your computer and monitor when not in use.
• Plug home electronics into power strips and turn off the power strips when the equipment is not in use.
• Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120°F
• Wash only full loads of dishes and clothes.
• Avoid aggressive driving with rapid acceleration and braking.
• When buying appliances, look for energy ratings on them and choose the the most efficient

Half of all the members of the National Association of Realtors (NAR) think energy costs are important to their clients and eighty-seven percent think that clients’ energy cost concerns will increase over the years. Research findings are that a typical family spends $1,900 per year on home utility bills, a large part of which is wasted. Simple steps to thinking and acting green can make a positive difference to your savings account and quality of life at home. (Source: National Association of Realtors)

Technorati Tags: living green,energy audit