green tips from the Sierra Club: responsible homes

Today's Green Tip from the Sierra Club!

According to a report released by the White House, homes are responsible for more than 20 percent of carbon emissions in the United States. By making a few minor adjustments to your abode, you can reduce emissions and save money this winter.

Tip #1: Block Drafts

Doors can allow cold air to enter a room, even when they're closed. The Daily Green reports that drafts waste five percent to thirty percent of your home's energy. Check out the Rusty Bobbin's tutorial to learn how to make your own "draft snake" with fabric scraps. If you're crafty, you might consider making extra draft snakes to give away as holiday presents. If sewing isn't your thing, a rolled towel placed at the base of the door is an easy option for stopping unwanted air flow.

Share your tips: How do you keep your home warm in winter?

Tip #2: Find Leaks

If a professional energy audit isn't in your budget, try this this trick for spotting air leaks: At night, walk around your dark house pointing a flashlight at the walls, doors, and windows. A partner standing outside should be able to see beams of light shining through any cracks or holes your home. To find more tips for spotting leaks, check out Sierra Club Green Home.

Share your tips: How do you find your home's leaks?

Tip #3: Insulate Windows

You can save up to $20 per window per winter in energy costs by fortifying panes with plastic window film. If installed properly, the inexpensive plastic should be nearly invisible. Heavy curtain are another option for beating the cold. If you're not concerned with aesthetics, you may want to try the bubble-wrap solution.

Share your tips: How do you winterize your windows?

Tip #4: Clean Furnace Filters

You can improve the efficiency of your furnace and improve indoor air quality bycleaning or replacing furnace filters. For best results, check your filter once a month during periods of high use. If your furnace is outdated, consider upgrading to a newer model. Consult the Energy Star Web site to find out if you're eligible for a federal tax credit.

Share your tips: How do you heat your home?

Posted by on 12/30 at 01:46 PM

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I’ve got a great + super simple tip. The next time you’re purchasing a gift card-- go for the electronic (and paperless) option, an eGift card. Each year, 75 millions lbs of PVC is dumped into landfills from plastic gift card waste (Plenty Magazine). That’s an astronomical amount of waste for something that can easily and conveniently be sent virtually. PVC is notoriously difficult to recycle and cannot be tossed into the recycling bin along side your other household items. You must send those pesky plastic cards to a PVC recycling plant, the only one I know of is EarthWorks. For a directory of retailers that offer an eGift card, try http://www.giftzip.com ...it is the most extensive one I have found to date. Hope that helped.