Going green at home doesn't have to cost thousands of dollars. There are plenty of easy changes homeowners can make to minimize their home's carbon footprint. From installing new storm windows to adjusting the temperature control on the hot-water heater, these DIY projects are can shave dollars off utility bills. The best part is that they're simple enough for every homeowner to master.
You may have storm windows, but are they energy-efficient storm windows? To bump up the performance of aging windows without replacing them, install storm windows with low-emissivity coatings. Low-e windows reflect the sun's heat back outside in summer and keep warm air inside in winter. According to The Balance Small Business, replacing outdated storm windows can reduce up to 35 percent off your utility bill.
Did you know you can adjust the temperature on your hot water heater? Turning it down just 10 degrees can lower your energy bills. It also means you won't have to worry about accidentally getting scalded by too-hot water from the faucet.
Applying simple caulking to leaky door frames can make an enormous difference in how comfortable your rooms stay in winter. It usually costs only a few dollars to complete and it will save you up to 10 percent on your energy bill. Additionally, you won't have to bundle up to use the front room in winter.
Hot water pipes that run through a chilly basement use more energy than those that run through warmer areas of your home. If you have hot water pipes in low-heat areas such as the basement or unfinished cellar, wrap them with insulation. This will save you money and energy because it allows you to lower the temperature on your water heater yet maintain the same heat.
Compact fluorescent light bulbs are much more energy-efficient than incandescents - about seven times more efficient, in fact. Switching out old bulbs is an easy and affordable project with an added bonus: CFLs can last up to 10 times longer than their incandescent counterparts, according to FamilyHandyman.com. This makes them ideal for placement in hard-to-reach places, such as ceiling fixtures.
An HVAC unit that's not running at top efficiency can increase your electric bill significantly. And often, the fix is as simple as changing out the air filter. HVAC air filters are easy to reach and to access, which makes them an easy chore for homeowners. Experts recommend changing the furnace filter at least once a month for best results.
Your dryer duct should have an exterior flap where it vents outside your home. Otherwise, cold air can travel back up the duct and into your rooms, making the laundry room a chilly place to spend time. Make sure yours has a flap and that it's working properly.
These easy upgrades won't break the bank and will help you save additional dollars from time to time. They'll also keep the temperature and humidity inside your home more stable which translates into more comfort all year long.
My experience dates back to 2002 when I obtained my degree in Economics from Kalamazoo College and then immediately went to work as a sales manager for a 72 unit, new home development in Clarkston. I am in my 22nd year of full time residential real estate sales and real estate is my number one passion!
· I earned the "Top Producer" award at Morgan Milzow & Ford Realtors from 2007-2023
· My career accomplishments to date include over 1,000 homes sold and in excess of $315M in closed transactions
· I've been voted an Hour Magazine All-Star 2013-2023, an honor only given to the top 5% of Metro Detroit Real Estate Agents
· I'm a lifelong Clarkston resident & service all of Oakland County, parts of Genesee, Livingston and Macomb Counties, and my area knowledge, professionalism and real estate expertise is unparalleled
· As a top-producing & seasoned Realtor I have a strong support staff that handles all facets of your transaction and thus creates a concierge-like real estate process that is as seamless and hands on as it can be, delivering the service you deserve! “Stress free, worry free” is our mission & mantra
· We offer an unmatched marketing plan with preferred positioning on all major Internet outlets and social media, the best in professional photography, staging, handyman services, top-notch negotiating skills, excellent communication & much more!
· In 2022 I was awarded the Clarkston Chamber of Commerce Independence Women of the Year award for excellence in business and for my community contributions. In 2019 I received the Clarkston Community Businessperson of the Year Award. I’m also proud to have served my community as the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce President in 2018 & 2019. I'm a past recipient of the NOCBOR (North Oakland County Board of Realtors) Distinguished Service Award, nominated by my peers
· I consistently contribute to other, local charitable causes that are close to my heart including Tree of Dreams, benefitting Neighbor for Neighbor, SCAMP and Clarkston Schools
· My resume also includes being an investment property owner, landlord, land developer and home flipper. With my experience and expertise plus my valuable connections I can also offer temporary housing to clients ensuring the most harmonious moving transition possible!
