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Environment

Residents

Residential buildings account for 26 percent of Arlington County’s greenhouse gas emissions. Every time you buy a home appliance, tune up your heating system or replace a burned-out light bulb, you’re making a decision that affects the environment.

The average American household spends nearly $2,000 per year on energy used in the home, but $200 to $500 of that is likely being wasted due to air leaks and outdated heating and cooling systems. If you are an apartment or condo dweller, live in a single family household or manage a property, there are many things that you can do around your home to save energy and money.

Whether you live, work or play in Arlington there’s a way for you to bring sustainability with you.

Simple, No-Cost Actions for Today

  • Turn off your lights when they’re not needed.
  • Unplug your electronics when they’re not in use.
  • Set your thermostat to 68°F in the winter (lower while you’re asleep or away from home) and 78°F in the summer (higher when you’re away).
  • Open windows, adjust blinds and use fans to naturally control daylight and temperature indoors.
  • Wash your clothes in cold water and line dry.
  • Do your laundry less often by washing only full loads.
  • Use alternate transportation: take the bus or metro, ride your bike and walk.

Low-Cost Actions for Tomorrow

  • Make the switch to LED bulbs.
  • Use a power strip to make it easier to turn off your electronics.
  • Install and set a programmable thermostat so you can worry less about proper temperature control.
  • Insulate your attic to retain heat in the winter.
  • Install a water heater blanket and lower your water heater temperature to 120°F.
  • Use less water with faucet aerators and high-performance showerheads.
  • Caulk or weatherstrip your windows and doors.

Long-Term Investments with Big Returns