"Green" kitchen appliances, fixtures, and other items are now easy to find and even easier to use. This article will tell you how you can create a green kitchen in your home. One of the easiest things you can do first is to cut down on the use of foam and paper plates and limit use of paper towels. Here are some other tips to turn your kitchen "green."
Green Kitchen Appliances
When you think about a "green" kitchen, what first comes to mind? For many people, it is the kitchen appliances. New appliances are hitting market everyday that use less energy, less water, and produce less noise. If they reduce the waste of natural resources, these appliances are said to be "green."
Energy Star appliances are a great start to your kitchen. Appliances are awarded this rating based on the amount of electricity or water you need for them to function properly. It can get pretty confusing to listen to the hype about the new appliances, so it can really be beneficial to search the Internet for ideas on which appliances you might consider. Refrigerators are one of the highest energy-use appliances in the kitchen. Installing an Energy Star rated refrigerator can result in a savings of several hundred dollars over the course of a year.
Stoves, dishwashers, garbage disposals, and microwaves are all available with the Energy Star rating. Most large appliance stores will be able to point you in the right direction for finding these types of energy-saving appliances. It is advised that you complete some research online to find the appliances that will save you the most money, without sacrificing the options you want.
As people are becoming more eco-friendly, major appliance manufacturers are continually designing and inventing new ways for appliances to appeal to "green"-conscious consumers. For instance, a compost pail can be installed in order to help you turn appropriate waste into valuable compost. You can even purchase liquid detergents that are eco-friendly to wash your dishes.
However, appliances are not the only area of your kitchen where you can help the environment. There are now green floors, fixtures, and faucets you can install to help make your kitchen "green."
Green Kitchen Lighting Fixtures
Consider your lighting fixtures. These, too, are rated for their energy consumption. Maybe it is time to remove the track lighting in your kitchen that requires ten light bulbs to operate properly. There are now light bulbs that use very little energy and will often last up to ten years. These are great investments for your home.
Facts about energy-saving light bulbs:
- Energy-saving light bulbs are referred to as compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs).
- Energy Star rated bulbs use approximately 75% less energy than traditional bulbs.
- You can save about $30.00 on your electric bill over the lifetime of one CFL.
- CFLs come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and the color they give off.
Green Kitchen Windows & Flooring
When you are considering your green kitchen, also consider the kitchen windows and flooring. Many new windows are now available in almost any style or shape that can limit the amount of heat or cold allowed into your home. There are also windows that are specially tinted to keep the sunlight from damaging or fading your carpet or furnishings.
Have you ever considered having a cork floor in your kitchen? It is an eco-friendly way to floor your kitchen, and cork provides a nice cushion feel as well. You can purchase floating cork floors or tiles. There are many styles to suit just about anyone looking for a kitchen floor alternative to regular vinyl, wood, or ceramic flooring.
"Green" homes are a great way to help limit the use of our natural resources. Not only does it help ensure our children's future, it also will affect your bank account with the savings you will inevitably see. Start your "green" makeover in the kitchen, as this is the gathering place for most families, and it just seems to make sense.
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