Go Green - This Month's Feature on newcountryq1031.com

What You Can Do At Home

Seal your duct system.
There is no better way to save energy. The average duct system has 40% leakage and is below 50% efficient. A study by Florida Energy and Power found that if homes in the US sealed their duct system, 40% of the nation's power plants could be shut down, and the average house could save $500 to $700.
Change five lights
Change a light, and you help change the world. Replace the conventional bulbs in your 5 most frequently used light fixtures with bulbs that have earned the government's ENERGY STAR and you will help the environment while saving more than $65 each year on energy bills. If every household in the U.S. took this one simple action we would prevent greenhouse gases equivalent to the emissions from nearly 10 million cars.
Look for ENERGY STAR qualified products
When buying new products, such as appliances for your home, get the features and performance you want AND help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Look for ENERGY STAR qualified products in more than 50 product categories, including lighting, home electronics, heating and cooling equipment, and appliances. Lennox has been the Energy Star Partner of the Year 4 years in a row. No other heating manufacturer has received this awared.
Heat and cool smartly
Simple steps like cleaning air filters regularly, installing adequate insulation, and having your heating and cooling equipment tuned annually by a licensed contractor can save energy and increase comfort at home, and at the same time reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Use green power
Green power is electricity that is generated from renewable energy sources such as wind and the sun that don't contribute to climate change. Consider buying green power or modifying your house to generate your own renewable energy. EPA's Green Power Web site provides information on both options.
Reduce, reuse, and recycle
Reduce the amount of waste you generate and water you consume whenever possible. Pursue simple water saving actions such as not letting the water run while shaving or brushing teeth. If there is a recycling program in your community, recycle your newspapers, beverage containers, paper, and other goods. Reducing, reusing, and recycling in your home helps conserve energy and reduces pollution and greenhouse gases from resource extraction, manufacturing, and disposal.
Be green in your yard
Composting your food and yard waste reduces the amount of garbage that you send to landfills and reduces greenhouse gas emissions. EPA's GreenScapes program provides tips on how to improve your lawn or garden while also benefiting the environment.
Calculate your household's carbon footprint
Use EPA's Personal Greenhouse Gas Emissions Calculator to estimate your household greenhouse gas emissions resulting from energy use, transportation, and waste disposal. This tool helps you understand where your greenhouse gas emissions come from and identify ways to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions.