Sustainability Tips

Environmental responsibility is everyone’s responsibility. By doing your part, over 300 million Americans become environmental stewards, making environmentally protective choices! Many of these choices can also help by saving money on home expenses.

  1. Reduce Energy
  2. Conserve Gas
  3. Reduce Waste 
  4. Save Water

Reducing energy is one of the easiest ways to save money at home and reduce your carbon footprint. Below are some tips to help you reduce energy at home. 

  • If you need energy assistance during winter months, Duke Energy offers financial assistance through their Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
  • Check out the Energy Savings Hub from the Department of Energy to find savings for energy efficiency, clean energy and electric vehicles as a homeowner, renter, or driver
  • Buy or switch to energy-efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs. Replace incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs wherever possible! They use only a fraction of the electricity. 
  • Turn off computer and television screens when not in use
  • Have the thermostat on your water heater reduced to no more than 120 degrees. If it’s set for higher, you’re probably wasting energy. 
  • Get a digital thermostats for your home’s heating and cooling system. They have a setback feature that will save money! 
  • Take steps to properly insulate your home. This is also referred to as weatherization.
  • Hang clothes to dry to save energy from running your dryer. 
  • Use cold water for your laundry
  • If possible, consider solar energy systems for your home. There are several resources for solar (and other renewable energy sources!) in North Carolina: