These 4 unique in-home Eco-tips could be another couple of feathers to put in your sustainable cap. If by chance you are a top-tier, know-all environmentalist, then be sure to pass these tips on to your rising brethren so they, too, can advance to green star status.
Fridge and Freezer Fixes
Depending on your refrigerator model, it can make up for a large amount of home energy use. This is especially true for old models, as well as the multitude of times the refrigerator door is opened throughout the day. Try these fridge and freezer fixes to make sure you’re not throwing away your hard-earned coin.
Pack the Freezer
A packed freezer uses less energy, plus if there’s a power outage, your food will stay frozen longer. If need be, use cooler ice packs to fill freezer space.
Keep the Flow
A refrigerator needs air flow for proper functioning. If it is too packed, some foods will remain colder than others, creating uneven storage and possible spoilage.
Dollar Bill Test
With a constantly swinging door, make sure your seal is optimal. Place a dollar bill in a closed door. If it can’t be moved, you’re good; if it falls out or can be slid around, it’s time to change your seals.
Clean Your Coils
If your condenser coils (in the back of your fridge) look like a dust and grime convention, vacuum and wipe them down asap. If you don’t, they will continue to use extra power to work and possibly break down faster.
Less Waste for Your Waste
So much of our wasteful ways involve unneeded space. Your toilet may not require all the water it is holding. Avoid some of that extra water use and see if you can live with less waste for your waste.
Some people recommend dropping a brick in the tank, which can work, but over time, it may disintegrate and clog your system. Try a plastic jug filled with sand or pebbles. A half-gallon plastic milk container (or the like) may save you about 3 gallons per day or sixty gallons per month.
Upgrading or replacing your toilet can be a significant money and energy saver as well.
Install Some Sensors
If you’re tired of chasing family members around the house to turn off lights, you’re not alone. Energy waste is a common problem, but it doesn’t have to be.
Motion-Sensing Devices
You can easily upgrade your home’s electrical system by installing motion-activated sensors. These smart devices use interruption response technology to:
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Turn the lights on when someone enters a room
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Automatically switch them off when the room is empty
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Operate on timers for additional energy savings
Advanced Smart Systems
More advanced options with AI-powered sensors are also available. These systems can:
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Recognize individuals who enter a room
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Adjust lighting, temperature, and even sound to match each person’s preferences
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Provide an optimized, personalized environment that’s both comfortable and energy-efficient
These smart sensors are a great step toward reducing your carbon footprint, without sacrificing convenience.
DIY Dishwasher Soap
There is a rainbow of various dishwasher soaps on the market, with many including toxic ingredients. Purchasing natural kitchen cleaning products is the best way to go, but if you want to make some dishwasher soap to save some money or just for fun, here’s a quick recipe. Place the following into your dishwasher detergent cup holder.
- 3 drops of dish soap
- 2/3 baking soda
- 1/3 salt
Believe it or not, there’s no catastrophic sudsy overflow, which is what plain dish soap liquid would normally cause.
Hopefully, these 4 unique in-home Eco-tips surprise and delight your inner tree hugger for more sustainable, clean, green living.
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