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10 easy ways to go green

Gary Dymski | Home Work

April 17, 2008

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No matter where I turn, I'm overwhelmed by "green." The other day I came across what a manufacturer assured me was a "greener" brand of toothpaste. (This did not appeal to me.)

To many manufacturers, I'm afraid, green means only charging consumers more money for items that, well, really are inexpensive. "Natural" cleaners are growing in popularity; A recent research company reported annual sales last year hit $105 million, up 23 percent from the previous year.

I'm here to tell you we all can be friendly to Mother Earth without digging deep into our pockets. In fact, there are ways to save money by going green:

1. Compact fluorescent light bulbs

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Also known as CFLs, these bulbs use 70 percent less energy and last 10 times longer than conventional incandescent bulbs.

The Environmental Protection Agency says replacing a 60-watt incandescent with a 13-watt CFL - each provides the same amount of light - can save at least $30 in energy costs over the life of the bulb. Savings can grow during hot, humid summers, when air conditioners are in use, because CFLs reduce energy costs linked to home cooling.

Related: When replacing lamps or light fixtures, look for the Energy Star label. Fixtures made to the Energy Star standards use 75 percent less energy and generate 75 percent less heat than conventional lighting fixtures. To learn more:Energystar.gov (click on the "lighting" link at left).

2. Cleaning solutions

White vinegar, baking soda and borax are among the natural products our grandparents used to clean windows, countertops, sinks and even clothes. They save money and eliminate toxic emissions indoors.

Another way to save is to use smaller amounts of traditional cleaners. For example, most manufacturers of liquid laundry detergents suggest using a quarter-cup of detergent for cleaning a medium-size load. Often, consumers use twice the amount suggested.

Related: Liquid laundry soap is easy to concoct, using various amounts of grated hand soap, borax, washing soda and water. Check online for recipes.

To learn more:Care2.com is a Web site dedicated to green-living recipes for nontoxic cleaning and pest control.

3. Energy Star appliances

These more efficient appliances can use up to 50 percent less energy and water than standard models. While Energy Star appliances cost more up front, money saved on utility bills can pay for the difference over time.

Studies say Americans average about $1,900 in household energy costs annually. Replacing all appliances with Energy Star models will cut energy costs by about 5 percent. Of course, it wouldn't be cost-effective to replace every appliance, but when buying new, buy smart.

Related: Need a new fridge? A new Energy Star model uses about 40 percent less energy than one manufactured before 1993 and 15 percent less than one built in 2001.

To learn more:EnergyStar.gov (click on "appliances" link at left).

4. Programmable thermostat

A model that controls both heating and central air-conditioning can run a little more than $100. But the payback is fast, less than a year in most cases.

Research shows that programming heating and cooling systems to coincide with the coming and going of occupants can save $150 to $180 in as little as seven months.