10 easy steps for a greener home

1. Opt for energy-efficient appliances

Replacing your appliances? Choose models ENERGY STAR certified that are 10% or more energy efficient than conventional models, with reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Or does your water heater need to be replaced? Look for ECOPEAK^® technology.

2. Replace standard lightbulbs with LED bulbs

According to Hydro-Québec, simply swapping your incandescent bulbs for LED bulbs will save you 70 to 90% in electricity costs from lighting. Plus, LEDs last up to 15 times longer than standard lighting products—definitely lighter on your wallet!

3. Choose your flooring well

Changing out your flooring or installing some for the first time in your new home? Shop renewable or environmentally friendly materials such as cork, bamboo, ceramic, concrete, or linoleum.

4. Shop second-hand

Consider renovating, furnishing, or decorating your home using second-hand items. Look for natural, recyclable, and recycled materials. Sell or donate items you no longer need—like toys, clothing, furniture, sporting goods, and housewares—instead of throwing them away.

5. Save water

In the bathroom

Need to change or buy a toilet? Consider a dual-flush model. It uses less water to flush liquid waste and more for solid waste. Look for MaP and WaterSense^® certifications for guaranteed flushing efficiency. Another way to save water at home is to install a low-flow shower head (7.6L/min.) and a faucet aerator (5.7L/min.).

In the garden

Get a rain barrel. You can find them in big-box and hardware stores, but some municipalities offer rain barrels at low prices to encourage citizens to reduce their potable water consumption. Look into it! The barrel will collect rainwater that you can use to water your garden.

6. Compost your leftovers and organic matter

Whether or not your municipality offers compost pickup, a backyard composter is a good idea. Not only will it help reduce your household waste, you can also use it to enrich your soil and save money!

7. Heat less by heating smarter!

Spring for programmable electronic thermostats or smart thermostats to control your home’s temperature. By better managing your energy consumption, you will reduce your heating bill.

8. Install high-performance windows and doors

As with household appliances, when replacing your windows and doors, consider ENERGY STAR certified products. According to Natural Resources Canada, ENERGY STAR certified windows are about 20% more efficient than regular ones, and doors with the certification are about 15% more airtight. Plus, you could receive government grants for installing them. Good home renovation and construction contractors are aware of the different programs and can sometimes even apply for you.

9. Clean with environmentally friendly products

Some cleaning products are much less harmful the environment than others. ECOLOGO certified products must meet strict environmental standards. You can also use refillable containers to reduce plastic waste.

Good to know

Grandma’s favourites, such as vinegar and baking soda (natural and biodegradable), are great substitutes for many commercial cleaning products.

10. Go for VOC-free paints

Traditional paints contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are harmful to the environment and your health. Opt for VOC-free or low-VOC paints and dyes. Water-based, recycled paints are also a solid choice.

More ways to reduce your ecological footprint:

• Schedule an energy audit of your home to pinpoint any weaknesses and make improvements as needed. See our tips and tricks for reno success.
• Upgrade wall, roof, and floor insulation as needed
• Check your doors and windows for leaks
• Optimize your heating and ventilation system

The first step to a greener home is taking the initiative to read labels and make responsible choices. You don’t have to change everything all at once! Small actions added little by little into your daily life can make a big contribution to saving the planet. Questions? CAA-Quebec’s Residential Advisory Services have answers.