Those relocating to
Deerfield, Winnetka, Glencoe, Highland Park, Northbrook or any of the other
North Shore cities come to me with a wide variety of questions, knowing that my
experiences and work within the North Shore Real Estate market make me an
invaluable resource.
One of the things I enjoy
pointing out to those moving to a North Shore home is the fact that this area
is comprised of environmentally conscious communities. No matter where you choose to buy your next
home, you’ll find programs, events and opportunities to join in the cause to
“go green” for the betterment of the North Shore community in which you live.
And, while each city has a
lot to offer for eco-friendly living, it’s also important to remember that we
can all do our part… beginning in our own North Shore home.
As we begin to bundle up for
the cold weather season, here are just a few ways you can conserve energy and
“go green” in your home!
1. Use
Your Fireplace- It’s
amazing how a fire in your fireplace can heat up a room instantly! Consider
lowering your thermostat on cooler evenings and lighting a fire instead. You’ll
instantly feel cozier in the midst of Chicago’s chilly winters.
2. Unplug- Not using an appliance? Unplug it!
The Department of Energy notes that, even if appliances are not being used,
they are still using energy. 40% of electricity used for your home electronics
is used when they’re turned off, but still plugged in. Getting in the habit of
unplugging will prove to be a smart habit in the long run!
3.
Program Your Thermostat-
Setting your thermostat to lower temperatures while you’re away from your NorthShore home or while you’re sleeping will automatically help reduce energy used,
as well as costs!
4.
Prevent Leaks- Check
all doors and windows for drafts. You can easily seal windows and doors to
prevent the warm air from your North Shore home escaping while making sure the cool
air doesn’t leak in!
5. Use
the Sun- During the
day, be sure to leave blinds and curtains open to let in the sunlight and
natural heat. At night, shut them to help “trap” the warmth.
6. Bundle
Up- Feeling chilled?
Instead of turning up the thermostat, throw on a pair of socks or an extra
layer. These small choices to not turn up the heat can really add up in energy
savings!
7. Switch
our Your Lights- From
lamps to the Christmas tree, all of your lights can be changed out for energy
efficient LED lights! With the sun setting earlier, you’ll be using your indoor
lights more often. Also, the festivity of the season’s decorations can spike
energy bill. LED Christmas lights can cut back on costs and energy usage.
I hope these
tips inspire even more ideas for ways to make your North Shore home an
eco-friendly environment! While they may
seem like small changes, they can add up to lower energy bills and a better
atmosphere for your North Shore community.
As always, I’m
here whenever you have any questions about living on the North Shore or if you’re
ready to begin your North Shore home search!
Please feel free to contact me today to get started!
Janie Bress
Your North Shore Real Estate Expert
North Shore Real Estate
View North Shore Listings
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