Welcome to the Dead River Company blog!

Earth Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, continues to grow as a worldwide event focused on promoting a clean, healthy and sustainable habitat for people and wildlife.

Many homeowners want to be more energy efficient, or “green.” From bigger projects to small changes, these green-living solutions could help you live a more sustainable lifestyle.

Bigger projects to save energy:

• Convert your heat source to propane, an EPA-certified green, American made energy source, that is highly efficient and versatile
• Upgrade to “EnergyStar” appliances
• Invest in a programmable thermostat and save energy by adjusting the temperature when you’re sleeping or away from home
• Replace your old water heater with a tankless water heater that heats water on demand
• Install a supplemental propane space heater, decorative stove or fireplace to heat the space you spend the most time in

Reduce water usage by:

• Taking shorter showers and install water-saving shower heads
• Doing full loads of laundry and dishes
• Fixing leaky faucets and toilets
• Turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth or shaving
• Reducing or eliminating lawn watering—if you must water, early morning is best
• Collecting rain water in a rain barrel for watering outdoor plants and garden

Simple changes that have a big impact over time:

• Turn off lights and electronics when not in use
• Cut back single use disposable items by purchasing reusable options
• Reduce, reuse and recycle paper, cardboard, plastic, metal and glass
• Save paper by using online banking and bill paying whenever possible
• Use travel mugs for water and beverages on the go
• Get in the habit of carrying clean reusable bags when shopping
• Pick up trash while out walking or running and recycle what you can. Go one step further and organize or participate in a cleanup in your neighborhood
• Plant a tree or grow a garden—if you don’t have the space, use containers or join a community garden
• Eat more plant-based foods—participate in Meatless Mondays
• Turn food waste and coffee grounds into compost for your garden
• Go pesticide free to save our pollinating butterflies and bees

Educating the next generation is also key to our long-term care of planet earth. Get your kids involved with fun Earth Day activities without straying too far from home.

Help make a difference on Earth Day and every day with these simple tips in mind and give back to the planet that is our home!