By Stephanie Green
These days, there is a lot to be known about the environment, and more importantly what we can do to help preserve it. Although it seems like a worldwide effort, there are small changes that you and your family can make to make your home green, and more energy efficient. Here are six products that can help lighten your wallet and your family’s carbon footprint.
NuvoH2O Home System – Hard, versus soft, water can be harmful to your home and your family’s budget. A salt-less system that softens your water, called the Nuvo H2O Home System, can be installed and will ensure your family is bathing in and drinking water that is healthier and less acidic. Uses Citrus, not Salt! It’s easy to maintain and has a nice compact design. Fewer appliances are being clogged with calcium deposits and are running more efficiently, while at the same time using less detergent and soap extending the life of your appliances. It is easy to install and you can choose the right size softener – Nuvo Studio System (for 1,000 sq ft and smaller homes), Nuvo Home System (for 1,000-2,000 sq ft homes) and Nuvo Manor System (for 2,000+ sq ft homes)dependent on the size of your home. Awarded Best in Show at 2014 International Builders Show for Indoor Living!
Buy a Nuvo H2O system here!
LG Energy Efficient Washer/Dryer – Another product that is designed to conserve money and energy within your home is the high efficiency washer and dryer. The LG Electronic Washer and Dryer is one of the better models and would be the perfect addition to a family home hoping to go green, help the Earth and, of course, shave a few dollars from the monthly budget. In 2013, it was awarded the Energy Star for most efficient design. Yearly, the washer only costs $14 to operate. They use less water and less electricity. Other models of energy efficient washers and dryers come from Kenmore, Frigidaire, and Samsung.
Tyvek Insulation – Tyvek ThermaWrap™ is a type of metallized insulation that can be installed in your home that will help your home save money long-term.In cold weather insulation keeps heat in, while it keeps the warm out in the hotter months of the year. This translates to a more energy efficient home because it is less costly to operate and only uses the heat and air that your family absolutely needs.
Click here for instructions on installation.
Philips LED Lighting – Electric bills can accrue quickly during both warm and cold months, and can become a large part of your monthly utilities. An efficient way to light your home and avoid high costs is to install Philips’ LED light bulbs and other lighting components. Philips’ LED light bulbs contain no mercury and last significantly longer than traditional light bulbs. The standard A Shape bulb works at 11 watts while doing the work of a 60 watt light bulb. These energy-efficient bulbs can be purchased at home improvement stores everywhere.
Velux Skylights – Skylights are also called roof windows, and are both beautiful and use natural light to reduce electricity use. Velux skylights are equipped with Neat glass that keeps windows nearly spotless while reducing outside noise by 25 percent. When you install a skylight, you eliminate the need for electric light and give any room in your house that natural touch. You can search for the residential skylight that is right for you here at the Velux website.
To learn more about finding new ways to save energy and money in your home, visit the Energy Star website for tips and tricks. As well, at the Colorado Dream Homes website, there are tips for keeping a low maintenance home. The EPA also offers a website with information about building a greener home.