Take the Plunge and Go Green

Has your home considered "going green" yet? Not only is it great for the environment, but I'm sure you've heard it can also save you some hard-earned cash! Here are a few tips on how you can make the change and reduce your home's expenses simultaneously.

Switch those bulbs: Switching to a Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb can save you $30 or more in electricity throughout the bulb's lifetime. Though this may not seem like much, think about how much you'd save if you replaced every light bulb in your house!

Upgrade those appliances: Consider upgrading your appliances to ENERGY STAR energy-efficient ones. Doing so will save you a minimum of 10-15 percent on your next utility bills. You also could be eligible for tax credits depending on your state. Spend a little now to save a lot later...it's worth it!

Take control: Control your space by installing a programmable thermostat to set your heating and cooling to turn off and on when you tell it to. These thermostats aren't very expensive ($40-100) but will typically save homeowners 10-15 percent on bills. Those savings are racking up!

Conserve water: Toilets, showers, and faucets account for 60 percent of water usage in the home. Consider switching to low-flow showerheads, and don't forget to fix any water leaks in tubs, showers, or sinks. Doing this will reduce your waste and eventually save even more cash. If you've been considering making your home a green one, make these changes as soon as possible. Your wallet will thank you.