Summer is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy your surroundings, but don’t take it for granted! At Southwest, we recognize that when it comes to the environment, being a good global citizen starts at our doorstep. Read on to learn more about how YOU can be more green too! We have a steadfast focus on conserving jet fuel, electricity, and water to reduce our impact on the planet, and we know that small changes that you make at home can add up to real benefits for the planet, not to mention benefits to your wallet, as well as your own health and happiness. Read about some of the things we do at our Southwest home in our One Report! Here are some tips to make summer a little bit greener at YOUR home:
- Stay Cool the Smart Way: If you’re not home during the day, close all windows, curtains, and blinds to keep your house cool for as long as possible, and make sure to turn off your AC or raise the thermostat to 85 degrees. While you are home, try to set your thermostat at 78 degrees or higher, the ideal energy-saving temperature. If that feels a bit too warm, use ceiling or room fans throughout your house—the air movement from the fan will help the air feel cooler! Also make sure not to add any more heat than necessary inside. Use appliances such as irons, washers, and dryers at night or early in the morning—or eliminate the dryer altogether and try out a clothesline instead!
- Skip the Chemicals: Do you have creepy crawlers and mosquitos in your yard? Opt for natural remedies by planting rosemary and citronella to ward off mosquitoes without harming wildlife or your family. Also consider installing a bat house in your yard to help reduce your mosquito problem year round!
- Green up your BBQ: If you’re having a barbeque this summer, make sure to use reusable or biodegradable plates and utensils. Fill up pitchers with beverages instead of buying personal-sized drinks, and if you use plastic or paper cups, make sure to have markers handy so people can write their names and use only one.
- Unplug: While you’re spending time outdoors or away from home, make sure to unplug unused appliances to avoid phantom energy. Furthermore, make use of those appliances that you do keep plugged in! Keep your refrigerator well stocked – refrigerators that are full of food don’t warm up as quickly when the door is opened, so they require less energy to stay cool. Also look into chargers for your devices that can be powered by that summer sun!
- Be Wise with your Wet n’ Wild: Water activities are a hallmark of summer. Definitely don’t go without them. Enjoy your water balloon fights and slip n’ slides, just make sure to be vigilant about how much water you are using on a daily basis! Try using rainwater to water your garden or go to a car wash that recycles water instead of washing it yourself to conserve.