Friday, October 21, 2011

Green Alternatives --

We wanted to share some cost effective ways to make our homes a little greener:

1. Use low VOC products:  After painting, the volatile organic compound level can be 1000 times the healthy normal.  Select low or no VOC paints and use non-toxic natural cleaners around the house or make your own green cleaning products at a fraction of the cost.

2. Put an aerator on all faucets:  This can cut water consumption by 50%.

3. Install low flow toilets:  These only use 1.6 gallons per flush compared to 3.5 gallons for pre-1994 model toilets OR if new toilets aren't in the budget right now adjust your float valve to let less water into the tank.

4. Install low flow shower heads:  This can cut water consumption by 25% - 50% per shower.  Water pressure seems to be a concern with low flow shower heads but newer models have settings so you can adjust the pressure.

5. Install a new water heater:  When its time to replace the water heater consider installing an "on demand" system that only heats the water as it is needed.



Lenny & Lisa