Ironically, some of the products commonly used to clean a home can actually introduce some pretty nasty chemicals. But good old fashioned steam cleaning can quickly remove dirt and grime, as well as sanitize surfaces – without a single toxic chemical. The Oreck Steam-It is one of the most versatile and user-friendly options we’ve seen.
Did you know that besides being convenient, using a dishwasher can actually save energy and reduce water use? Bosch dishwashers have an excellent reputation as high-end appliances, but the Ascenta diswasher delivers energy efficient performance at half the price of some competitors.
The Nest Learning Thermostat isn’t just programmable. It actually anticipates what you need it to do, which (besides being really cool, no pun intended) can save a substantial amount of wasted energy. Since heating and cooling accounts for a full 50% of an average home’s energy use, that also means saving you a bundle of money.
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Plenty of electricity gets wasted by devices that are left plugged in when not in use. One of the easiest ways to prevent all the cost and pollution that results? This timed outlet that cuts power after a set amount of time.
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You don’t need a giant photovoltaic array on your roof to take advantage of home solar power. Even if solar energy isn’t the answer for all your day-to-day power needs, it can be a great alternative to gasoline- or diesel-powered generators for power outages or off-the-grid applications like a vacation cabin. The GoalZero Yeti 1250 solar generator delivers serious household power in a convenient all-in-one package.
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Electronic devices around your home use a surprising amount of power, even when they’re turned off. These “energy vampires” continue to draw electricity in their Standby modes, but it may not be practical to physically unplug every component in your entertainment center or office. Bye Bye Standby saves money and energy by completely cutting power to all these devices at once, at the press of a button.
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Gas and wood burning stoves can provide a huge amount of heat for your home, and newer designs like pellet fuel stoves are tremendously efficient as well. So what could help a good idea work even better? The Ecofan helps distribute all that warmth around a room, powered only by the stove’s residual heat.
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An energy-efficient HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) system will keep your home comfortable while cutting your utility bills. But the best system isn’t just efficient when it’s operating – it also knows when it doesn’t need to run. It’s no secret that programmable thermostats save energy and money, but the wireless, wi-fi enabled Ecobee takes smart climate control to a whole new level.
High efficiency washing machines (designated by the “HE” symbol) are simply a great investment. They work better for cleaning your clothes, and they use substantially less water and electricity than traditional washers – saving money while reducing your home’s environmental impact at the same time. Learn about the advantages of HE washing machines, and what you should look for.
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As outdoor temperatures drop, what’s the most efficient way to keep your home warm and cozy? Stoves that utilize pellet fuel instead of regular wood logs can be an amazingly energy-efficient and cost effective option.
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