Over the past few months I have been educating myself about green building techniques (for example: What Is An Earthcraft House?), but I have also been picking up some tips on what existing homeowners can do to make their homes more green, and energy efficient.

Here are some low-cost ways to live green around your home:

1. Install CFL lightbulbs (save lots of electricity)
   
2. Install low-flow showerheads (save water too)
   
3. Start a compost pile (save the landfills)
   
4. Plant trees (shade trees around a house can reduce heating bills)
5. Insulate hot water heater (avoid unnecessary energy/heat loss)
6. Weatherstrip and caulk doors and windows (seal those leaks)
7. Collect rainwater to water plants (save tap water for drinking)
8. Paint with low- or no-VOC paint (avoid those toxins)
9. Replace air filters (improve indoor air quality)
10. Install a programmable thermostat (don't heat an empty house)
11. Plant native plants (avoid the need to water heavily)

If you're willing to spend a bit more, here are some medium-cost ideas:

1. Conduct an energy audit (find the problems)
2. Tune up the HVAC system (efficient heating systems heat efficiently)
3. Install a tankless water heater (stop heating water endlessly)
4. Insulate attic and other areas (stop needless heat loss)

Do you have other ideas of how to live greener in your current home?  Please share!

I'll be posting even more information that I have learned from these Green Building courses over the next few weeks, but if you have specific questions before then, feel free to call (540-578-0102) or e-mail (scott@cbfunkhouser.com) me.