5 Simple Things You can do Today to go Green!

For today’s Friday’s Five, we thought we might take a little different approach.   Yes, we at ABCO Solar, Inc. are solar proponents, but we’re more than that, we believe in sustainability in all forms.  This includes but is not limited to reducing our carbon footprint and ensuring we’re leaving a last positive legacy for our children.  This is why we’ve created ABCO Thermal and ABCO Energy.   This is part of what we believe to be a sensible approach to sustainability.    Did you there are quite a few simple things you can do everyday to be more environmentally friendly?  Below are 5 for today’s Friday’s Five.

1. Change a light bulb – did you know that lighting can account for up to 25% of your energy use?  If you switch your light bulbs to more energy efficient CFL’s and/or LED’s you energy consumption will lower your energy consumption 2 reasons.  One,  CFL’s/LED’s do not heat up!  Two, and more importantly, you’re using a fraction of the energy of your traditional bulbs.

2. Unplug the things that Glow.  Yes, we’re suggesting unplugging your television, computer and other home electronics.  Did you know that at least 10% of your utility costs come from these energy vampires even when not in use.

3.   Recycle your electronics.  There are a  number of benefits including  but not limited to creating jobs, benefits to schools and low income families and you might be surprised what can be salvaged from your old electronics to live another day!

4.  Support local farmers and local businesses.   I don’t believe we  need to add anything more.  ABCO Solar, Inc, ABCO Thermal and ABCO Energy are all local owned and operated.  Whenever possible we support other small businesses in the areas.

5.  Get an energy audit.  This can be value assessment of where your home is and is not energy efficient.  Your local utility (Below are quick links for APS, TEP, SRP and Trico ) can be a valuable resource for finding qualified energy auditors.  One can also check with BPI.org for qualified companies.

These are all little things we can do today to ensure a greener tomorrow.   Please let us know if you have suggestions by contacting us at info@abcosolar.com

Energy Audit Information

APS – Home Energy Audit

TEP – Home Energy Audit  TEP has suspended their program temporarily while they have a proposal for new funding.  Continue to the check their website.

SRP – Home Energy Audit

Trico – Energy Efficiency Workshops