5 Simple Ways to Go Green in Your Home

Easy Ways to Change Your Environmental Outlook for Beginners

Now more then ever it is vital that we help our planet, but where do you start? You want to do your part, but all of the information on green living available today can be daunting. Especially if you are new to the environmental challenge. Start with the basics and adopt these simple steps for greening your home.

1. Reduce your power use. Almost everyone uses more electricity then they need thanks to the abundance in electronic devices the average home now carries. This is bad for the environment as well as your pocket book. You can cut down for free by simply making an effort to turn off the lights, TV, stereos and other equipment when you leave the room.

For a moderate fee you can go a step further and purchase CFL light bulbs. According to Energy Star, each CFL light bulb uses up to 75% less energy then the standard bulb. These bulbs have seen improvement both in pricing and functionality recently.

As an added bonus, you can purchase Smart Strips for your electronic devices. These handy strips cut the vampire power (read: Power a device constantly sucks when not in use.) They may seem a little pricey at first, but they will pay for themselves in electric bill savings over time.

2. Reduce your water use. Like electricity, we're all guilty of water over-consumption, and the solution is simple. Turn the water off. Take shorter showers. Turn the faucet off while brushing your teeth. You can even take your new conservative nature outside and reduce the time spent watering your lawn. Water early in the morning to cut down on evaporation; and only water when your lawn actually needs it.

Go a step further and purchase water conservation items for your home, like low-flow showerheads. These shower heads reduce the water output during your shower. They may take some getting used to but the planet will thank you.