Lou Manfredini, Ace’s “Helpful Hardware Man”, will be sharing his expert tips with our readers from time to time. You can read more about Lou by clicking here.
Hi I’m Lou Manfredini, Ace’s “Helpful Hardware Man” and I wanted to share with you some tips for going green that don’t cost a lot of green. Even small changes can make a difference, and here are my favorite tips for how to go green for under $100.
1. If you can only do 1 thing, spend $100 to outfit your entire home with CFLs — you’ll save up to two-thirds on your energy bill! If the harsh glow of CFLs turns you off, consider GE’s brand new CFL that is shaped like an incandescent bulb and gives off a softer glow.
2. Install a programmable thermostat. These units cost $40 – $100 but make a huge difference. You can program your thermostat to lower the temperature in your home while you are at work or asleep, saving you up to 30% on energy. Some areas even offer rebates on your heating and cooling bills if you install a programmable thermostat!
3. If the programmable thermostat is too much of an investment, pledge to turn down your thermostat a few degrees. According to the EPA the average house will save 3% on their energy bills for every degree they turn down the heat.
4. Choose environmentally friendly cleaners and buy them in bulk to save on transportation and plastic waste.
5. Weather-strip your doors and windows. This simple, $25 project will save up to 20% on energy consumption.
Check out www.acehardware.com to gather more of my tips on living a “greener” life.
Hey everyone,
I saw the article about going green and being more environmentally friendly. I think it is great that so many people are waking up to the fact that the planet is in trouble and that we need to act now in order to help out. I think with global warming creeping up on us, I think it is very important that we become more aware of trying to lower our carbon emissions, and try and do right by the planet. I think we can all do our little bit extra to try and help! At home I always shut the computer down rather than putting it to sleep, and always turn off electrics rather than leave them on stand by. These tips may seem small, but if everyone pulled together then I think we could really make a difference to the world. Another hint I have is that I now use e-Cards rather than buying paper cards. Not only are you saving money if you choose a free site, but more importantly, you are helping the environment by saving paper, and therefore less trees need to be chopped down! I have done my research and finally found the best free Environmentally Friendly e-Card site. It is really easy to use, which is great if like me you are not very good with computers! I really like this particular site as there is just so much choice. I know e-Cards are not for everyone but think of the environment it really is a great way to help out and do your bit!
Thanks Nic for your great green idea! Ecards are fantastic. In fact, we use them for parties now not only b/c they are better for the environment and our wallet-but because they also have a higher rsvp rate!
Hey Ruth,
Thanks, glad you found this useful, I just really prefer them to paper cards. I think e-Cards are def becoming more popular!