5 Eco-Friendly Home Tips to Embrace Summer Living This June

Southern California summers are all about sunshine, fresh air, and outdoor living. Why not make this season even better by embracing eco-conscious choices at home? Here are five impactful and practical ways to create a more sustainable, energy-efficient lifestyle this June:

1. Switch to LED or Solar Lighting
Longer days mean more outdoor fun—but also higher energy use if you’re not careful.
-Swap out incandescent bulbs for LEDs, which use up to 80% less energy.
-For your outdoor areas, try solar-powered garden lights or motion-sensor path lights. Not only do they lower your energy bill, but they also reduce your carbon footprint.

Tip: Many local utility companies (like Southern California Edison) offer rebates for energy-efficient lighting upgrades!

2. Use Ceiling Fans and Smart Thermostats
Keeping cool doesn't have to come with a high cost.
-Ceiling fans use far less electricity than air conditioning and can make a room feel up to 4°F cooler.
-Smart thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee) learn your patterns and optimize cooling when needed—especially handy during peak summer heat.

Bonus: Adjust your thermostat by just 2 degrees to reduce energy use without sacrificing comfort.

3. Go Natural with Cleaning and Air Fresheners
Chemicals from conventional cleaners can pollute indoor air and drain resources.
-Choose plant-based cleaning products that are biodegradable and non-toxic (look for brands like Seventh Generation, Everspring, or Grove).
-Freshen rooms with homemade air sprays using essential oils, lemon, or baking soda.

Tip: Open windows early in the morning or late evening to ventilate your home naturally and cool it down.

4. Start a Small Garden (Even in Small Spaces!)
Growing your own food, even just herbs, can reduce trips to the store and shrink your food waste.
-Plant easy-to-grow herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme on a sunny windowsill.
-Try a container garden on your patio or balcony with tomatoes, peppers, or strawberries.

Local Resource: Many SoCal cities offer free composting workshops and discounts on rain barrels—check with your local municipality!

5. Reduce Water Waste Outdoors
Water conservation is crucial in Southern California, especially during dry months.
-Install drip irrigation systems for more targeted watering.
-Switch to drought-tolerant landscaping (xeriscaping) with native plants like lavender, agave, or California poppies.
-Water lawns early (before 8 a.m.) to avoid evaporation and comply with local watering restrictions.

Bonus: Consider installing a greywater system or collecting rainwater for non-potable use. Making small eco-friendly changes in your home can add up to big environmental and financial savings. Whether you're a homeowner looking to increase your property’s efficiency—or a buyer seeking sustainable features in your next home—June is the perfect time to start.