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Five steps to a greener lifestyleThere are several events in Hampden County during the next few weeks for Arbor Day and Earth Day. If you are unable to attend any of these programs, there are still ways for you to get involved with helping the environment.
The following is called Angie's List, which offers five steps to incorporate a greener lifestyle at home.
1.) Determine the energy efficiency of your home with an audit. An audit can help you assess how much energy your home uses and evaluate what measures you can take to improve efficiency. Contact your utility company to see if they offer free or discounted home energy audits.
2.) Use compact florescent light bulbs. Energy Star lighting uses about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs and last up to 10 times longer. You can save about $30 or more in electricity costs over each bulbs' lifetime, and they produce about 75 percent less heat.
3.) Install low-flow showerheads, faucets and toilets. Low-flow faucets reduce water consumption and the cost of heating water by as much as 50 percent.
4.) Update your water heater. Water heating can account for 14 percent to 25 percent of the energy consumed in your home. A tankless water heater provides hot water only as it is needed. A solar water heater can be used in any climate.
5.) Energy Star Appliances: If your appliances are more than 10 years old, you can most likely reduce your utility bills by replacing these appliances with high-efficiency models. Cut energy consumed by your appliances by buying Energy Star models (www.energystar.gov ). They meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and U.S. Department of Energy. Also, size your appliances to your needs. Dishwashers and refrigerators work more efficiently when they are full. If your appliances are usually only half full, consider smaller models.
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