If you’d like to help the environment and save some money on your energy bills, there’s no better way to do it than using green energy. You do not have to purchase a car that is electric in order to make this work! Continue reading to learn some easy ways you can use more green energy, regardless of your budget.
A solar water heating system can help lower energy costs. Heating water with electricity or natural gas is not very efficient, but solar water heaters harness energy from the sun to keep water at a steady temperature. Many of these improvements will cost you a bit up front, but the cost savings and tax deductions will usually more than offset that cost.
You might be able to get a government grant to finance your green energy installation. Contact your local government in order to see the different programs available in your area. Who knows, you may qualify for low or no-cost wind or solar installation. Even if you don’t qualify for a grant, you can still use these items as a tax deduction.
Clean your furnace filters regularly and replace them at least one time a year. If your air intakes and registers do not have filters, take the time to install them. These filters keep children’s toys, dirt or dust from clogging the heating ducts.
Be sure to cover your windows with drapes or blinds when not at home. Your house will stay cool and you won’t use as much energy this way. Typically windows on the southern side of the home receive the most sun. Try to cover the windows using coverings like roman shades, roller shades, and dark curtains.
Consider installing a solar water heating system. If you happen to live in a climate where freezing water isn’t going to affect you then you might want to invest into a system that circulates water through your solar heater before it is pumped into your home. However, you should still have a traditional water heater as backup for times when the sun won’t come out or if you’re going to be using a lot of hot water.
Keep your refrigerator in good condition. Refrigerators use a large amount of energy, so they should be taken care of to work their best. The heating coils should be cleaned regularly to remove the accumulated dust. Don’t forget to be certain to keep the seal surrounding the door tight and clean.
Air flow can be better controller when stormed windows and doors are installed in a home. These kinds of doors and windows reduces the amount of cold air that comes into the home. If you use storm doors or windows, you can save at least 45 percent on your electricity bills.
If you are a fan of green living and green energy, try using your electric heaters as little as possible during the winter. In order to do this, you need to do two things. First, buy the necessary clothing and slippers, to keep family members warm. Second, use a pellet stove or fireplace for heating. In addition, this is beneficial to your health, as cooler air keeps your airways from getting too dry, allowing you to breathe easier while sleeping.
Degrees Warmer
Dressing in warm attire can be a great way to cut energy costs while embracing green energy. You will feel 2 degrees warmer with a light sweater, and 4 degrees warmer with a heavy one. Add a hat, scarf and gloves for even more warmth. You don’t need to be cold at home, get yourself some nice warm clothes you can use in your house today!
If you are one of the many people who desire to live a greener life when it comes to saving our planet’s energy, there is much you can do. Many of these options will not cost you money, but will instead save you money, like cleaning your furnace filter monthly and turning down your thermostat when you are leaving your home. Reducing the temperature of your water heater to 120 degrees could save you a lot of money as well. Even small steps that you take can add up to a big difference!
Carpooling doesn’t have to be just for work. Kids can also form carpools to school by alternating parents days. If you have family or friends close to you, you could also plan your grocery trips together and share the driving responsibilities.
Energy Star
Appliances with the Energy Star certification bear a distinctive logo that makes them easy to identify. Any appliance that has an ENERGY STAR logo meets guidelines for the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA as well. Typically, these are the only appliances that one can get a tax rebate for.
You can save energy by changing your furnace filter, getting a thermostat that is programmable and using light bulbs that are energy efficient. Set forth a good example for the members of your family, and this will teach others to go green as well. Keep these ideas in mind and apply them wherever you can.
