Refrigerators
Refrigerators are huge energy hogs, but efficiency has improved dramatically in the past 15 years. If you can replace just one appliance, consider the fridge first.
Costs:
An Energy Star-certified refrigerator costs about $30 more than a conventional
unit but will generate savings of about
$75 over the life of the appliance.
Idea 2:
Countertops
Plastic-laminated countertops are bonded
with toxic resins, so consider a more
environmentally sensitive option. Traditional
green countertop choices include natural
linoleum or ceramic tile. Newer options
include materials with recycled glass,
paper and aluminum. Bamboo, a rapidly
renewing resource, is also gaining popularity.
Costs:
Prices vary considerably; from $40 to $140 per square foot.
Idea 3:
Cabinets
Many older cabinets have significant formaldehyde
off-gassing -- even years after they've
been installed. Consider using formaldehyde-free
wood or wood from a rapidly renewing resource,
such as bamboo.
Costs:
Stock and custom cabinet costs vary widely, but expect to pay $300 to $1100 per cabinet, including accessories and trim.
Idea 4:
Flooring
Avoid vinyl -- which has toxic manufacturing
processes and produces off-gas chemicals -- in
favor of greener products like bamboo,
cork, natural linoleum or wood. Use underlayment
material made of cork, synthetic latex
or recycled materials.
Costs:
Bamboo flooring costs $5 to $8 per square foot; cork flooring, $2 to 5 per square
foot; and natural linoleum flooring, $4
to $7 per square foot, installed.
Idea 5:
Low-flow faucets
As in the bathroom, a low-flow faucet in the sink can help you cut your water usage.
Costs:
$2 to $10 per aerator; some utility companies will offer them for free.
Kitchen
