With the start of the new year, many of us have made commitments to follow through with our list of new years resolutions. And, while it’s great to have goals for 2012, the way to succeed is to have practical steps you can take to achieve them.
A common resolution for this new year is to be more environmentally friendly and, as a team of Chicago Real Estate agents and advisors, we wanted to highlight some of the ways you can be eco conscious in your Chicago home. It may not seem like you’re making a difference with some of the minor changes you make, but with everyone doing their part, it can result in an energy efficient community!
Chicago is known for its winters, and it can tend to be a time where utility bills climb in order to stay cozy in your home. While many Chicago homes are upgrading to “green” appliances and HVAC systems, there are other ways to be environmentally friendly without spending a fortune. You’ll even find that these practical changes can lower your energy bills this winter!
1. Set the Timer- Set your thermostat to lower temperatures while you’re away from your Chicago home or while you’re sleeping. This will automatically help reduce energy used as well as costs just by programming your thermostat.
2. Let the Sunshine In- During the day, be sure to leave blinds and curtains open to let in the sunlight and natural heat. At night, shut them to help “trap” the warmth.
3. Light a Fire- It’s amazing how a fire in your fireplace can heat up a room instantly! Consider lowering your thermostat on cooler evenings and lighting a fire instead. You’ll instantly feel cozier in the midst of Chicago’s cold winters.
4. Bundle Up- Feeling chilled? Instead of turning up the thermostat, throw on a pair of socks or an extra layer. These small choices to not turn up the heat can really add up in energy savings!
5. Switch our Your Lights- From lamps to overhead lights, all of your light bulbs can be changed out for energy efficient LED lights! With the sun setting earlier, you’ll be using your indoor lights more often. LED lights can cut back on costs and energy usage.
6. Stop Leaks- Check all doors and windows for drafts. You can easily seal windows and doors to prevent the warm air from your Chicago home from escaping, while making sure the cool air doesn’t leak in!
7. Unplug- Not using an appliance? Unplug it! The Department of Energy notes that, even if appliances are not being used, they are still using energy. 40% of electricity used for your home electronics is used when they’re turned off, but still plugged in. Getting in the habit of unplugging will prove to be a smart habit in the long run!
Although we’ve had a milder winter so far, we hope these tips are helpful and that they spark even more ideas of ways you can make a difference, not only in your Chicago home, but in your Chicago community as well!
If you don’t currently own a home in Chicago, but have been considering buying a home this year; please let us know! We’d enjoy the opportunity to work with you and help you find the Chicago home of your dreams. There are a variety of homes currently on the Chicago Real Estate market, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs, budget and lifestyle!
Feel free to contact our team of experienced Chicago Real Estate agents! We look forward to working with you!
Shoreline Property Advisors
@ Prudential Rubloff
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