10 tips to go green this Summer

1.Turn off the lights when you are not in the room. Use the natural sunlight when you can or switch to Energy Star qualified Compact Fluorescent Lightbulbs (CFLs). CFLs save about $30 over a bulbs lifetime (7 years) and produce less heat so they can cut a home's cooling cost.
2.Wash your laundry in cold water. 90% of energy used by the washing machine is for hot water. Make sure you only wash and dry full loads. The same amount of water is used no matter what in the washing machine.
3. Check the Energy guide stick on your appliances before you buy them. A more efficient appliance can save you lots of money over time.
4.Decrease your hot water use. You will save on your water bill and electricity used to heat the water. Double Savings! Install low flow showerheads. They use 1/3 the amount of water or regular showerheads.
5.Wash only full loads of dishes in the dishwaster and air dry dishes. If you wash dishes by hand, rinse dishes in groups. Don't leave the water running. 6.Keep cool during the day by closing shades and openings windows during the day. Install a programmable thermostat so you can set a different temperature for when you aren't in the house.
7.Cover and wrap your food in the refrigerator. Uncovered foods and liquids release moisture which makes the fridge work harder. Check the door seals. Place a piece of paper half in and half out of the door. If you can remove the paper easily without opening the door you need to adjust the door latch or replace the seals.
8. Unplug electronics and chargers when they are not in use. They are still using electricity in standby mode!
9.When cooking use a microwave whenever possible. It uses the least amount of electricty. When using the over use glass or ceramic pans. They heat faster than metal.
10.Get a comprehensive home energy audit through the Long Island Green Homes. www.longislandgreenhomes.org