Blog

Have you been wanting to make some changes in your life to be more energy and environmentally efficient? One of the best places to start is your home! While some changes can be pricey - like solar panels - there are other, small updates around your house that you can do to make the transformation. Read on to find 5 simple steps to making your home more sustainable!

Lighting

Switching your lighting to LED or CFL lights is a simple and inexpensive way to ensure that your house uses less energy. On average LED lights use 80% less energy than the traditional incandescent ones. Not only that, but they will also last up to 20 times longer - fewer in the landfill and fewer for you to have to purchase/change out. Lastly, incandescent bulbs tend to emit more heat - causing your air conditioner to kick on, LED bulbs do not have that issue. Further saving you energy and money on the bill!

Recycle and Compost

One of the best parts of the Roaring Fork Valley is how Compost-Conscious we are! Studies show that almost 50% of household garbage is food scraps—so, instead of throwing them in a dumpster, why not compost it and make a healthy fertilizer for your garden? 

You can buy an outdoor composter, build one yourself, or, if gardening isn't your thing, you can hire one of the local composting companies to pick it up on your curb - just like the garbage. 

Faucet Repairs 

Believe it or not, repairing leaky faucets, shower heads, and toilets is a great way to conserve water in the home. Statistics from the EPA.govshow that, in the worst cases, homes with leaks can waste up to 90 gallons of water per day! The average leaky household wastes more than 10,000 gallons every year. 

Whether you fix it yourself or call a plumber, not only will your home be more green and sustainable, but your water bill will also improve! 

Energy Efficient Appliances 

This option and the following one are not as "low-cost" upfront, but both will save you money in the long run. Replacing appliances such as: washers/dryers, ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers with energy efficient ones will not only make your home more sustainable, but will cut your monthly bills significantly.

Solar Panels 

Can you imagine if your home was powered by the sun? While installing solar panels can be a big expense upfront, they will save you so much in the long run! Not only will they pay for themselves over time, but they will also help you to decrease your carbon footprint. Again, our valley is very conscious of sustainability, so a quick Google search will bring you to multiple solar companies for you to choose from. 

Achieving sustainable living is one goal that can be accomplished by completing the 5 steps above! And while some of these will cost more upfront, in the long run, these transformations will save you money and significantly decrease your carbon footprint. It's a win-win!