We’ve touched on the ways to go green on both a small and moderately sized budget, but what about those of you who have a fat wallet? Well, you’ll not only be able to green your life successfully, but you will also be able to get completely off the grid or even give energy back.
Sustainable energy
Solar and wind energy are two of the easiest ways to get off the grid. The problem is that it is quite expensive. However, there’s nothing wrong with just adding a 500w silent windmill on your roof or a few solar panels to help offset your carbon footprint. Hey, if the power is out you may even have enough energy to run a lightbulb or even a laptop.
Price: $250+ depending on how much you want.
Alternative
If you can’t afford even a small windmill or solar panel, buy a few carbon credits or switch to an electric company which buys some of its electricity from renewable sources.
Tankless water heater
Typical water heaters continually heat water until it is used. With tankless water heaters the water is heated on-demand. This will substantially lower the amount of electricity used. There’s also no chance of water-damage, there’s an unlimited supply of hot water, and it takes up a lot less space.
Price: $450-$1500
Compared to: $100-$600 for electric. $250-$1000 for gas.
Alternative
If you aren’t flattered with having to wait for your water to be heated, think about getting a solar water heater instead. These use no electricity, but run anywhere from $1000-$5000.
Insulation
Older houses tend to have horrible attic insulation. By using cellulose insulation (recycled newspaper) every crack is sealed and your home becomes much more energy efficient compared to typical fiberglass. Further, cellulose has zero chemicals and dries quickly.
Price: Same as fiberglass.
Alternative
Check for cracks around doors and windows which can be easily sealed with caulk or non-expanding foam.
Energy efficient appliances
Just about every appliance now has an Energy Star version. If you have the chance opt for it instead. Big appliances are huge energy wasters,. Refrigerators, dishwashers, water heaters, freezers, clothes washers, and air conditioners are what make up the bulk of electricity bills. Energy Star products are roughly the same price as other appliances but generally more expensive. However, you’ll end up saving a lot more than what you pay through electricity bills.
Price: Relatively the same, but a few dollars more.
Alternative
If you can’t afford to change out your main appliances just yet, opt for environmentally friendly small kitchen appliances like green coffee makers or blenders.
Wool carpet
Many carpets in the united states are made from synthetic polymers like nylon (which is petroleum based), polyester, and polypropylene. Wool carpet is the longest lasting carpet available and is naturally stain-resistant by beading spills near the top of the carpet long enough for you to grab a rag to wipe up the mess. Wool also helps control humidity to help keep your home feeling better.
Price: $10/sq. yd
Compared to: Typically $1-$8/sq. yd depending on quality.
(Prices do not include installation costs)
Alternative
Since wool carpet is somewhat expensive and you’ll probably need a professional to install it, consider buying FLOR recycled carpet squares. The squares are all natural, recycled(able), and easy to install (you can install them yourself). FLOR carpet runs anywhere from $5-$40/sq. yd (typically $8-10 for residential indoors). Since you can install the carpet yourself, it is not only environmentally friendly but also cost efficient.
GreenSwitch
The GreenSwitch is essentially a switch placed near the most commonly used door in the house. That way, when you wish to leave you can easily flick the GreenSwitch to the off position. To set it up, you place special electrical outlets around the house and plug in all your vampire appliances, like the TV, DVD player or microwave. Flick the switch and presto! The products are no longer sucking electricity in the off position.
Price: $500-$1000 (includes professional installation)
Compared to: 35% higher electricity bills from vampire electronics.
Alternative
Due to the price many homeowners might want to opt for something different, especially during a poor economy. Luckily, there is a great alternative. The downside? That alternative will include more work daily. Just buy a power strip which has an on/off switch and plug in your vampires. Whenever you stop using the electronics, just switch it to the off position.
Gray water system
Gray water is water used from sinks, showers, and washing machines. By setting up a grey water system, the water is sent underground (on your property), treated, and then reused to water lawns and gardens. The hair, lent, and food particles are trapped within the treatment process and sent into the sewage system. This can save hundreds even thousands of gallons of water per year.
Price: $2000+ depending on amount of bathrooms, sinks, size, etc.
Compared to: Using hundreds, even thousands additional gallons of water per year to green your grass and grow your garden.
Alternative
Set up a smaller grey water system which uses the sink and shower water for the toilet. ($200)
Written: Mar 11, 2009
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