16 WAYS TO A GREENER LIFE

LOWER YOUR UTILITY BILLS
- Switch to Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) can be a huge energy saver. Replace some
(or all) of your incandescent bulbs with fluorescents and enjoy reductions in heat
production, energy use, and electric bills!
Savings: Changing five of the most frequently used light bulbs in your home can
save you $100 per year on electric bills!
- Program Your Thermostat
When you are at home, keep the thermostat at 78°F or higher in the summer and
62°F or lower in the winter. Programmable thermostats allow you to program the
systems to reduce output when they are not needed (e.g., when no one is home
during the day, or in the evening when everyone is sleeping).
Savings: Reduce your energy bill by $100 per year or more!
- Plug Air Leaks
This simple step can go a long way toward keeping your home at the temperature
you desire, saving money on heating and air conditioning bills and more. Common
leaks occur around windows, doors, and other wall penetrations. Plugging
those leaks with weather stripping and caulk can be a simple task for anyone!
Savings: Reduce your energy bill by $100 per year or more!
- Tune Up Your Heating and Cooling (HVAC) System
Have a checkup for your HVAC system every 2 years to make sure it is running
efficiently. Be sure to clean the filter monthly during times of
peak usage; a dirty filter can significantly reduce the efficiency
of your HVAC.
Savings: Reduce your energy bill by $100 per year or more!
- Choose ENERGY STAR® Appliances
ENERGY STAR® qualified products meet a high level of
energy efficiency, which can translate into savings on electric
bills. When considering the price of a new appliance, take into
account not only the purchase price, but also the long-term
savings associated with an energy-efficient appliance.
Savings: Reduce your energy bill by $50 per appliance per
year or more!
- Reduce Water Use
-
Indoor: Use less water by adding aerators (available for a few
dollars at your local home supply store) to your sink faucets
and changing to low-flow showerheads.
-
Outdoor: Incorporate native plants in your landscape plan
and minimize high-maintenance landscaping such as turf
grass to conserve water, while still maintaining a beautiful
lawn
Savings: Reduce your water bill by as much as $100 per year

HOME CONSULTANT MAGAZINE™ is produced twice a year by RIVWOOD ENTERPRISES, LLC. Information obtained in this publication has been obtained
from sources believed to be reliable. HOME CONSULTANT MAGAZINE™ and RIVWOOD ENTERPRISES, LLC make no representation about the correctness of the information contained herein. All information contained herein is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute professional or legal advice. HOME CONSULTANT MAGAZINE™ and RIVWOOD ENTERPRISES, LLC do not imply an endorsement or recommendation of any advertiser included in this publication. © 2007 Compilation Copyright
RIVWOOD ENTERPRISES, LLC 200 Central Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877, 301-910-2156; 301-910-2164 www.rivwood.com