Many homeowners get overwhelmed at the thought of changine their home to make it a greener environment. It can be awfully difficult to know where to begin and which changes are going to benefit you and the environment the best. This article can help you learn how to make your home as green as it can be.
Lower the heating costs of your water, hot tubs and pools by changing over to a heating system that is run by solar power. Solar water heaters are much more energy efficient than electric or gas-driven water heating systems. Solar systems use the sun’s energy to stabilize water temperature. You may get tax deductions to offset the expense of installing some of this technology.
Wear natural fabrics during the summer in order to avoid wasting energy on air conditioning. Fabrics such as cotton draw moisture from the skin, which allows you to stay much cooler. Wear lighter colors since warmer ones can make you warm and cause you to rely on the A/C.
Government grants are available to help consumers invest in renewable energies. Ask at your local municipality office to research what types of programs might be available to you. You may be eligible for free wind or solar installation, or at the very least be allowed to deduct your costs when you do your taxes.
Install solar panels and reap the benefits easily. However, before installing them, there are some things to keep in mind. Think about how much sun your house typically gets. If you’re in a shady area, or a place that doesn’t have many sunny days, you won’t be able to gain as much power.
Do you or your family own a farm? If you or someone you know does, you can rent a piece of your land to a company looking to put in a wind turbine. The turbine will provide free energy to you and close neighbors, and won’t take up much space.
Wash your clothes in cold water whenever possible. Most of the energy used to wash clothes is actually used in heating up the water. As long as you have reliable clothes washing detergent, using cold water is just as effective. Only wash when you have a full load of clothes to put in the washer.
Save on water heating costs by using solar energy. Upgrade your hot water system to one that’s solar-powered. Indirect or direct circulation systems are both available. If frozen pipes are common in your area, an indirect water heater will be your best option.
Replace an energy-hogging water heating tank with a greener, tankless variety. While heaters that are tankless still need electricity or gas, they will not heat more water than you need, which is what a water tank heater does. Tankless water heaters are available to purchase in many different sizes; you can heat water for your whole house, or just a single faucet.
If you are on a mission to go green, start by keeping electric heaters off or on a very low setting during winter months. A fireplace for the living area, wearing warmer clothing and purchasing some slippers are all greener ways of keeping the family warm. Keep in mind that cooler air is better for your breathing while you sleep as it prevents your airways from becoming dry.
Try to communicate more via email. This will help you use less paper and help the planet. You and the businesses you deal with can both save energy and money by going paperless. Not to mention, it protects the environment for everyone.
A solar oven is a fun and effective way to reduce your energy needs for cooking. You can make this by using a piece of foil, a box, and an old window. These ovens can be quickly assembled, and reach 300 degrees in temperature simply using the sun.
Each home is laid out differently. It is important to keep these parameters in mind when choosing a technology. There are some techniques and strategies that are sure to work for every household, and others will be area specific. Use the tips in this article to determine which technologies will work for you.
