Below you will find our green tips for local homeowners:
1. Save water and money by installing a high efficiency shower head. Because they use less water than conventional shower heads, high efficiency heads generally save users $50-$75/year in water bills and $20-$50/year in energy bills. On top of these savings, rebates are available through Columbia Gas of Ohio, click here for a rebate coupon. You can further green your bathroom by installing a high efficiency toilet. Click here for more information.
2. Educate yourself on tax credits available to homeowners who make repairs or upgrades that improve windows, insulation, water heaters, and more. Federal tax credits are available this year, from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2009. Click here to jump to the U.S. EPA Energy Star Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency homepage.
3. This may sound simple, but educate yourself about energy usage. Toledo Edison offers an informative two page online .pdf that will help energy consumers understand what appliances typically consume the most energy. You can find the .pdf here.
4. Reduce your heating and cooling bill by installing a programmable thermostat. Columbia Gas of Ohio is currently offering a rebate coupon with the purchase of a qualifying programmable thermostat. You can find the rebate here. Also, check out the U.S. EPA Energy Star website to learn more about programmable thermostats.
