Even if it’s not your color of choice, green can be incorporated into your home quickly and cost-effectively with paint.

The buzzwords (or initials) in paints these days are VOCs, or volatile organic compounds. Simply put, VOCs are chemicals that can sometimes be detected by odors in the air -- and that can affect a home’s indoor air quality. Besides having low- to zero-VOCs, the paint you select should also be high performing. The more durable the product is, the better it covers and the less frequently you need to repaint -- which is another benefit to the environment.

A steamy solution

VOCs can also lurk in areas where dry-cleaned goods are stored, as the process commonly uses harsh chemicals that can remain on clothing.

When purchasing a dryer or any other new appliance for the home, it is also important to consider if the model is Energy Star rated. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency created the Energy Star program in 1992 to promote energy-efficient products. Purchasing household products with the Energy Star rating is a giant leap toward reducing your home’s energy use -- and your utility bills.

Upgrade and save

If you’re like most people, you’ve probably been resigned to rising utility bills. According to the Alliance to Save Energy, the average household spent almost $2,100 on home energy costs in 2007, and with heating and cooling costs typically accounting for nearly half of a home’s energy bills, it can literally pay off to take a closer look at your heating, ventilation and air conditioning -- or HVAC --system.

In general, pay attention to the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) rating on your air conditioner. As a rule of thumb, the higher the rating, the higher the efficiency and the lower your bills. For instance, the XL19i, with one of the highest SEER ratings available of up to 19.5, could save you up to 59 percent on your annual energy bill. Also, look for a furnace with the highest Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating available, as this rating is comparable to miles-per-gallon in a car. The XV95 has an AFUE rating of up to 96.7 percent, which can save you up to 40 percent annually on energy consumption and, in turn, lower your energy bills.

A bright idea

Also when it comes to energy usage, the U.S. Department of Energy says almost a fourth of a typical home’s energy bills goes toward lighting the home. Installing light dimmers is an easy, inexpensive way to save on these costs and at the same time create ambiance in rooms where mood counts, such as in the dining room, bedroom and bathroom.

These efficient dimmers look and function like typical dimmers in every other way, reducing light levels to as low as five percent and reducing energy use even further.

Making a few easy green improvements around your house can help you be friendly to the environment -- and your wallet. (ARA)