These days, new homes are often built with energy-saving appliances and other green features. But what if you live in an older home? Is it still possible to implement green practices? Indeed, there are plenty of ways to go green in older homes. Consider these simple suggestions from ThisOldHouse.com:

Eliminate lint: By cleaning your clothes dryer’s lint trap before every load, you will improve the air circulation that speeds drying – and lower you energy bill in the process.

Wash in cold water:  Save water heating costs by washing and rinsing clothes in cold water. In addition, if you wash full loads instead of partial ones, you will save more than 3,400 gallons a year, according to the website.

Use low-VOC paint: One of the major culprits of indoor air pollution is the volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from paint, particleboard and other home-improvement products. If you’re painting, choose low-VOC or zero-VOC products.

Seal door to garage: Garages are filled with potential air hazards, including car exhaust fumes and lawn and garden chemicals. Be sure those elements don’t seep into the house by carefully sealing any gaps around doors or cracks in the ceiling and walls that lead to the house.

Automate your heat: Programmable thermostats that lower the temperature in the house when you leave or are sleeping at night can reduce your energy bills by as much as $150 a year.

Watch for radon: Radon causes as many as 21,000 lung cancer deaths in the U.S. every year, according to the EPA. Why take the risk? You can obtain DIY radon tests at home improvement stores or from the National Safety Council for $20 or less.

Think bamboo: Bamboo can be harvested and regrown in a much shorter turnaround time than hardwood trees. Save trees by choosing bamboo products for floors, cabinets and furniture.

Source(s): http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/green

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You can pick up more tips to making your home green at RE/MAX of Cherry Creek’s blog.

RE/MAX of Cherry Creek, your Denver metro real estate agents.