Being environmentally conscious is at the top of many people’s resolution list for 2012, and as one who’s lived in Evanston for a while, I can attest to this being a top priority for this charming city for a number of years. Evanston has become very proactive in creating "green" events throughout the year and encouraging its’ residents to take every opportunity to be eco-friendly.
Some of these initiatives include the Evanston Green Living Festival, Walk Week, the Evanston Farmer’s Market, The Evanston Environmental Association and the Evanston Ecology Center. These are just a few of the ways Evanston is working hard to create a better environment now and for years to come!
As an Evanston Real Estate agent, who enjoys working with homes in Evanston, I thought I would give you some very practical ways you can begin living an environmentally conscious life right in your own home. You may think that being eco-friendly requires a complete overhaul of your life (which it can), but even the smallest changes can make a large difference. Take a look!
1. Set the Timer- Set your thermostat to lower temperatures while you’re away from your Evanston home or while you’re sleeping. This will automatically help reduce energy used as well as costs just by programming your thermostat.
2. Let the Sunshine In- 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.
3. Light a Fire- 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 cold winters.
4. 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!
5. Switch our Your Lights- From lamps to overhead lights, all of your light bulbs can be changed out for energy efficient LED lights! With the sun setting earlier, you’ll be using your indoor lights more often. LED lights can cut back on costs and energy usage.
6. Stop Leaks- Check all doors and windows for drafts. You can easily seal windows and doors to prevent the warm air from your Evanston home from escaping, while making sure the cool air doesn’t leak in!
7. 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!
I hope these tips help you begin your energy efficient journey and even spark some ideas of other things you can do to create an even better living environment in Evanston.
As always, if you have any questions about living in Evanston or are interested in buying or selling your Evanston home; please contact me. I’d enjoy the opportunity to talk with you about your real estate needs!
Judy Newton
Your Evanston Real Estate Expert
Coldwell Banker
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