Taking care of the Earth should be a priority. From wind power to solar energy, there are a lot of different ways to live in a more sustainable environment. Are you wondering how to go green? For plenty of great tips, keep reading this article.
Wait until your dishwasher’s full before running it. No matter how many dishes you have in there, it still uses the same level of energy. Run your dishwasher using the energy-saving mode so that you can air-dry dishes and save energy.
Solar Power
Solar power can heat water for a low cost. Look into hot water systems that run by solar power. Indirect or direct circulation systems are both available. Indirect systems are the best option for those who have frozen pipes during the winter.
When you have a solar energy system installed, ensure that the batteries that hold the power are situated in close proximity to the cells. Power can be lost over long cables so this will lessen the impact. It will also minimize the possibility of a cable shading out the cells and lowering their generation capability.
In homes with storm doors and windows, air flow is controlled better. Storm doors and windows lessen the amount of cold air drafts that come in. Your home’s energy efficiency will increase by as much as 45% if you install storm windows and doors!
Use electric heating sparingly in the winter. You can wear warmer clothing instead, and warm up your home with your fireplace. Remember, cooler air during sleep is better for breathing, and keeps the airways from drying out.
One very easy way to save money on your heating bills is to dress more warmly around the house during the winter months. A sweater that is light can provide 2 degrees of extra warmth, while a heavy one provides 4. It’s not necessary to wear so little at home, so out on a sweatshirt and save some cash!
Use energy saving products throughout your home to increase efficiency. Certain green items, such as eco-friendly windows and doors and double glazed windows, cut down on energy you need to keep your home going efficiently. When using these types of products you cut down on your heating and cooling costs.
Desktop computers require a lot of energy, so why not opt for a laptop? This can significantly lower the amount of electricity you use, especially if the computer is on the Internet a lot or uses word processing software. Another benefit of the laptop is that it’s portable, so it can be used anywhere.
Try not putting the temperature up too much, as it may be unnecessary. Wear sweatpants and a sweater if you are chilly. Having your heat turned up too high will consume a great deal of unnecessary energy.
Make use of a solar oven for baking needs. You can make these with boxes, old windows or old pieces of foil that can be used for reflection. They require only sunlight to reach a temperature of more than 300 degrees, and they only take a few minutes to construct.
If you would like to save the environment, remember that it can be done in small steps as well as big ones. You may not be able to spend a lot of money going green, but you can start by cleaning furnace filters each month and setting heat at 60 degrees when not at home. Setting the temperature on your water heater to 120 degrees will help reduce energy costs, too. The little things add up.
Green energy helps protect our environment. All power sources will have some impact to the environment; however, through greener avenues, this impact can be reduced greatly. Now that you have some tips to work with, you know how to be a little greener.
