Using environmentally friendly energy is a great way to improve your home life and helps save the environment, too. Making some simple changes can slash your utility costs in half or more while saving electricity. Keep reading to learn how to save energy and money.
If you are considering purchasing outdoor lighting look into solar lamps. They don’t use any energy other than solar energy and they are cost effective. This, of course, will save you a lot of money. It will also mean you can avoid installing underground wiring.
Switch to water heating systems that use solar power to heat hot tubs, pools and indoor water. Solar water heaters use the sun’s energy to heat water resulting in energy savings. These types of upgrades, while more costly at first, may qualify you for a green energy deduction on your taxes.
Wear natural fabrics instead of using the air conditioning in the summer. Cotton and other fabrics draw sweat from the skin and make you cool. Lighter colors also make you feel cooler.
Check monthly to determine if your furnace’s filters need cleaning and replace them yearly. You should put filters in registers that are warm-air too. Register filters will help prevent debris increasing efficiency.
Solar water heaters are a great option for your home. If you’re in an area that doesn’t have to worry about freezing temperatures, you can get a system that will circulate the water through a solar heater before pumping it into your home. However, consider that you may still need a traditional heater if you will be using a great deal of hot water, or if the sun does not come out for some time.
When installing solar panels, ensure that the energy-storing batteries are installed as close to the cells as possible. This prevents energy from dissipating in a long cable. This can reduce chances of cables shading cells and reducing capabilities.
If you dress warmer, you will help cut energy costs, which helps you to go green. A sweater that is light can provide 2 degrees of extra warmth, while a heavy one provides 4. You do not have to wear a small amount of clothing at home, so put on a sweater and increase your savings.
Renewable Energy
Pay attention to federal and local rebates associated with renewable energy for your house. In some instances, the local company gives rebates for upgrading to green tech. In some cases, there could be credits or tax deductions either from the federal or state government. These rebates, credits, and other allowances can make it much more affordable to install renewable energy equipment on your property.
Unless cold temperatures become a real problem, it is better to keep the heat turned down. If it’s a bit chilly, put sweatpants or a sweatshirt on. When the heat is turned up to a high level, a lot of unnecessary energy is used.
A solar oven is a great consideration if you are an avid baker. You can make one out of a box, wood, and some foil. These types of oven can become very hot with adequate sunlight, and cook some foods without any additional energy source.
Think about using a carpool for work and other activities in order to reduce the amount of fuel you use. If you are a parent, set up a neighborhood carpool and take turns with the other parents. You can also schedule grocery shopping and other errands with friends that live near you.
As mentioned, it doesn’t have to cost a lot or take a lot of time to go green! Oftentimes, just a few simple changes around the home will save energy and money. Remember this article’s tips so you can begin making changes in your own life, and help out the environment in the long term.
