In April the world celebrates Earth Day with people all over taking part in planet-saving activities. And while that’s a good thing, its impact is lessened if “reduce, reuse, recycle” measures are limited to one day a year.

So, whether you’re reading this blog on April 22, June 17, or January 18, here are steps you can take to contribute to preserving natural resources and reducing energy consumption.

Skip the dryer. During warmer months, outdoor temps, gentle breezes, and added daylight are perfect for drying laundry and giving your clothes dryer a break. When the weather isn’t cooperating, an indoor clothes line can help reduce your dependence on your dryer. 

Update your refrigerator. If your fridge is winding down – the average life expectancy is about 15 years – replacing it with an Energy Star model can save you up to $300 in energy costs over the next five years. Old fridge or new, keep it running at max efficiency by not over-stuffing it; that enables air to circulate freely for fresher and better-tasting food.

Switch to green household cleaners. Common household cleaners and detergents contain potentially harmful chemicals and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air. Look for eco-friendly cleaners or make your own from items you probably already have. Use a 50-50 mixture of distilled white vinegar and water to get glass and mirrors sparkling clean. Remove stubborn spots and stains on hard surfaces with a baking soda paste. And ditch paper towels for cloth rags that you can toss in the washing machine once you’re done cleaning.

Check for air leaks. Tending to air leaks helps reduce energy costs and the amount of energy it takes to heat and cool your home.  With less wear and tear to undergo, your HVAC systems will last longer, too. So, seal drafty windows and doors, replace weather stripping as needed, and consider replacing windows and exterior doors that continue to allow air to escape, no matter how much you try to prevent it.

Shine a light on savings. One of the simplest and most affordable ways to reduce energy consumption and save a few bucks is by switching to LED bulbs. They use 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, produce 90% less heat, and last at least 15 times longer.

At Now Security Systems, we do more than encourage and applaud energy saving measures. We practice resource conservation ourselves. Join us, won’t you?