Green Your Home

Your house may be blue or white or grey or brown, but the odds are you’d like it to be a little more green. As in energy-efficient, that is. Conserving on energy use makes cents; the less juice you burn, the lower your PG&E bill, for example. Not to mention that ol’ global warming that scientists say threatens the planet. There are a number of easy things you can do to conserve.

First of all, here’s the ultimate low-tech way to watch your electricity bill go down, down, down: Dry clothes on a clothesline. While your air conditioner is generally the Number One energy hog, the dryer is also one of the biggest offenders. Putting up a clothesline can be an afternoon’s project for a handyperson. Or install a pulley in your basement (and avoid incurring the wrath of the neighbors).

Speaking of the air conditioner, for many folks, including those in Contra Costa County, it’s still hot enough to use one. Check the air conditioner filter to see if it needs to be replaced. Since the A/C is likely your home’s Number One energy hog, anything that reduces its use is a big help. Also, just cutting back a few degrees can make a big difference.

You can do an online energy audit on your home at this site. The survey shows you how energy-efficient your home is and suggests ways to conserve. More tips to come! (Photo: agnesgtr)