Being eco-friendly is so 2018. This year on Earth Day (April 22nd), take a look around your home and see where you can be more energy efficient and environmentally conscious. From the kitchen to the laundry room, here are some eco-friendly tips you can try out this Earth Day.
8 Eco-Friendly Earth Day Tips for Your Home
LAUNDRY ROOM
There are many ways to be more eco-friendly in the laundry room. The temperature setting and the appliances we use are all factors in energy and water waste. This Earth Day, learn to be more green in the laundry room.
1. Use Cold Water
Wash your clothing on the cold setting. This uses about 85% less energy than hot water loads. Only use hot water for towels and getting rid of stains.
2. Wash Full Loads
Unless you really have to, wait until you have a full load of laundry before running the washing machine. If you only have one set of towels or bedding, consider purchasing an extra set so that you don’t have to run small loads all the time. You’ll make the money back in your water savings.
3. Buy Energy-Efficient Appliances
You can save a lot of energy and prevent wear and tear on your clothes by switching to an energy-efficient machine. To make it easy, look for the ENERGY STAR label. ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances must meet the stringent energy efficiency requirements set forth by the Environmental Protection Agency.
4. Air Dry Clothing
If you are sick of your clothing fading and shrinking in the dryer, it may be time to switch over to air drying your clothing. You can use a drying rack, hangers, or a good old-fashioned clothesline. Leave the heavier fabrics in the dryer, but by taking out the lighter clothing, you can save a lot of money and energy. Hang drying your clothing not only saves money and energy, it also helps your clothing retain its color and shape.
KITCHEN
The kitchen is another space in your home where you can make a big impact on your energy consumption. The appliances and the settings you use have a lot to do with how much energy is consumed. Making small conscious decisions in the kitchen can significantly shrink your footprint. Oh, and remember to add “clean the refrigerator” to your spring cleaning to-do list.
5. Keep Fridge and Freezer Full
Your refrigerator and freezer will use less energy if they are full. Since food retains cold better than the air, an empty refrigerator has to work harder. If you have a second fridge/freezer, reassess whether you need it or not.
6. Clean the Refrigerator
Ideally, you should be cleaning your refrigerator regularly and the condenser coils on the back of the fridge twice a year. Just like the condenser coils on your heat pump, a good cleaning will help your fridge run more efficiently and use less energy.
Remember, your refrigerator works by removing heat from inside and dispensing it outside via the coils in the back. Make sure the coils are clean and have room for proper airflow for the refrigeration cycle.
7. Use the Microwave
When you’re just heating up a small amount, use the microwave. It uses a lot less energy than your stovetop or oven, reducing your energy use by around 70% or more. Also, you’ll want to use the toaster oven in place of the full-size oven if you can.
8. Use the No-Heat Setting on Dishwashers
Many dishwashers have a no-heat setting. Heat drying your dishes isn’t necessary. Instead, use the air-dry setting and open up the door after the final rinse to let it air dry.
PRO-TIP: Take Advantage of Off-Peak Hours
Your utility company probably offers off-peak rates, which are normally from around 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. Running your appliances during these off-peak hours can greatly reduce your energy bills.
If you’re an early bird or night owl, take advantage of the hours when you’re awake and everyone else is asleep. Call your utility company to find out if they offer off-peak rates.
Earth Day is the perfect time to impart the wisdom of Mother Earth. We can use today’s technologies and enjoy convenient luxury appliances and still be responsible.
By purchasing energy-efficient appliances and using eco-friendly temperature settings, not only will you save money and energy, you’ll also feel better. For more eco-friendly solutions for any area of your home, contact OnTime Service.
Happy Earth Day!
