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Going green doesn’t have to be expensive. Although there’s a perception that things labeled “green” often cost more—and this is true of all organic cotton T-shirts and stainless steel water bottles—there are a number of inexpensive steps you can take to go green. . Here are 5 things you can do to go green today that are inexpensive and will actually save you money.
1. Replace your shower heads with lower flow models. The typical shower head can flow between 2 and 3 gallons of water per minute, but newer low-flow versions are now widely available that flow between 1 and 1.5 gallons per minute. Because they mix more air with the water, creating more water pressure, these low-flow showerheads give the impression of more water flow. You can barely tell the difference. But you will notice a difference in your water bill. The average person will see savings of around 2,000 gallons of water per year. Since this water is hot water, saving water in showers also saves energy. Low-flow showerheads cost anywhere from $10 to $25, and you’ll easily save more than that each year. Important: Look for the term “WaterSense” on the label.
2. Install new underflow faucet aerators on all sink faucets. These work similar to bottom flow shower heads. Typical savings are around 500 gallons of water per year per faucet. The cost? Only about $5 per tap. This simple step pays for itself in the first year and will save you money every year after.
3. Install low-flow toilets. Installing a low-flow toilet is the most expensive item on the list, but the repayment easily makes it worth it. Older model toilets use 3 to 5 gallons of water per flush. Install a newer model that uses only 1.6 gallons per flush. Although the toilet can cost between $200 and $400, the annual savings will be around $90, which will pay you back in full in 3-4 years. Savings over the life of the toilet will be $2,000 to $3,000. And here’s a helpful tip: buy a low-flow toilet with the widest possible flush opening (I don’t think I need to explain why).
4. Replace all incandescent light bulbs with a compact fluorescent light (CFL). This one is a no-brainer. CFLs now cost no more than older incandescent bulbs and will pay you back in energy savings within 6 months. Each CFL you install will save you about $5 to $10 per year in electricity.
5. Put (extra) insulation in your attic. Insulation will prevent heat loss in the winter and help retain cooler air in the summer, saving you significant money on your heating and cooling bills. If you put up the insulation yourself or ask a friend to help, the insulation cost will be only $30, but the savings will be several multiples of that.
There you have it: five easy and inexpensive ways to go green and save money. These are green living tips that almost anyone can use to save water, energy, and money.