5 Top Trends to Make Your Home More Green Friendly

Guest Post: By Annie Davis

Washington D.C. hosts the Clean Energy Forum on American Leadership each year and many green visionaries tout the need for energy conservation but many of these leaders report the biggest efforts are being made by consumers and homeowners. Seattle was named the top green city in 2009 and here are ways to make your Emerald City home the greenest it can be.

1. Energy Efficient Water Systems

Image via Flickr roger_mommaerts

There are a number of ways to conserve water and use water more efficiently within your home. Beyond being green, these systems will help save on utility and water costs:

On-Demand hot water units
Storm water retention systems
Water catchment construction
Water purification and infiltration systems
Energy efficient and green plumbing choices

Residents seeking green plumbing Seattle are luckier than most due to the efforts on the part of local plumbers who are also committing to using environmentally friendly materials, installing water reuse systems and taking the time to become experts in on-demand hot water heaters to cut down on utility costs. Water is one of our most precious resources and installing these items in your home will drastically lower your carbon footprint.

2. Green Cleaning Solutions

It used to be one had to travel to a green-friendly specialty store to find cleaning products but these are now being sold in grocery stores, big box stores and home improvement centers. These solutions are free of toxins that can harm our bodies and the planet so be sure to put them on your shopping list.

Or, why not create some of your own cleaning products? There’s a reason baking soda can do everything from giving you a winning smile to cleaning auto parts—it’s safe and good for the environment. Mix baking soda with chemical free liquid soaps, vinegar, lemon juice and borax to save not only at the store but also to clean green.

3. Use "Green" Paint

Image via Flickr Vimages

Most paints are full of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Not only are these bad for the environment, they can be harmful to our lungs and sinuses. Most paint manufacturers have taken notice of the demand for green paint, especially in cities like Seattle.

Non-VOC paints come in a variety of colors and are as easy to use as traditional paint. Imagine painting without harmful fumes and still getting the desired effect?

4. Buy Energy Star Appliances

Energy Star appliances receive ratings from the government ensuring they utilize the lowest amount of energy possible. You can find all types of Energy Star rated appliances from refrigerators to dishwashers to washers and dryers. And, in some states, homeowners can receive rebates or tax incentives for buying Energy Star appliances.

5. Consider Bamboo Flooring

Image via Flickr planetc1

Unlike oak where trees can take up to 120 years to mature, bamboo can be harvested after three years. Healthy Home Plans suggests trying out environmentally friendly bamboo for flooring options and skipping other types of wood.

Bamboo floors come in a variety of non-VOC stains, are easily cleaned and their durability stacks up to common woods used in flooring.

Seattle residents are proud of the City’s efforts in gaining the top green city spot and most look for ways to follow suit. Trying some or all of these ideas are not only green, they’ll save money on utility costs.

By Annie Davis