Upgrading Household Appliances and Fixtures

Please understand that we do not advocate throwing out all of your older appliances and fixtures, as that is bad for the landfills. However, as the need arises to update, consider some of these more environmentally friendly options.

Solar Water Heater
When it is time to replace your conventional water heater, think solar. A solar water heating system will cost more up front, but will save you money in the long run. On average, you should save 50-80% on your water heating bill, depending on how much water you use and the cost of fuel in your area. Also, because the sun is free, you are protected from future fuel shortages and price hikes.
If you are building a new home, or refinancing, the incentives are good, as there are tax breaks for solar powered systems.

Water Saving Toilet
Installing a water saving toilet can save you up to $90.00 per year on water costs. Some new models even give you two flushing options, one gentle and one more powerful.

Electric Lawnmower
When your old lawn mower dies, consider switching to electric. There are neat cordless models which only cost about $10.00 a year to operate.
Did you know that a gasoline powered mower releases three times as many hydrocarbons into the atmosphere per hour as a car?!
To make for less mowing, you could replace some of your lawn with lower maintenance ground cover, such as, clover, strawberries, and ornamental grasses.