If you are curious about greener energy sources, and how they apply to your life and home, this article will shed some light on the many benefits of green energy to both your finances and the environment. These following tips will make you more aware of some of the many energy saving things you can practice in your home.
Save on the use of electricity in your home, and become a better consumer of energy by unplugging your electronic devices and gadgets when they are not in use. Chargers for cell phones, mp3 players, laptops and other devices draw some power when they are plugged in, regardless of whether you are actually charging the device.
Furnace filters should be replaced annually, and check them monthly for cleanliness. You should also install filters on any warm-air registers included with your furnace. These filters keep debris or toys from entering the duct-work, which could reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Do your laundry using cold water, if you can. Almost 90% of energy used for doing laundry is due to heating the water. Modern laundry detergent does just as well with cold water as hot water. Also, be as energy efficient as possible by only washing full loads of clothing.
Use drapes or curtains in your windows for when you are not home. They will help to keep the temperature and the energy consumption of the house down when the house is vacant. Typically, windows that face south are positioned so that they receive the most sun. Therefore, it is especially important to use heavy window coverings on these windows.
When not being used, turn things off. Upon leaving a particular room, remember to turn of the lights, television, computer or even the entertainment center. A power strip should be used for electronics and can be easily turned off when not needed, since the standby mode is still utilizing power.
Wait until your dishwasher’s full before running it. Dishwashers do not allow for minimizing water or power consumption. It is the same, full or not. Using the air-dry setting will save energy when you run the dishwasher.
Install batteries very close to cells when you are putting together a solar energy system. Power can be lost in long cables so this will reduce this possibility. It can also lessen the probability of cable shading, which reduces power-generation capabilities.
Maintaining your refrigerator is an easy way to save energy. Since the fridge consumes lots of energy, it’s key to maintain it in working order. Clean the dust off of the heating coils on a regular basis. Don’t forget to be certain to keep the seal surrounding the door tight and clean.
Dressing warmly can help you reduce energy and 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 dress lightly at home, so save money by putting on a sweater and turning down the heat!
Active Solar
Take time to read about passive and active solar power. Passive solar systems are less expensive but cannot store energy like active solar systems do. Active systems are what you would normally think of when you think of solar–PV cells, mechanical parts, and storage devices. Passive solar power is simply making use of the sun to keep thermal energy in your walls so you can heat your home.
If you don’t know what changes to make, consider having a heating expert or plumber come to your home and give you a list of changes you can make to cut your energy costs. These professionals can point out inefficient appliances and systems, and they can also help you determine how much it might cost to upgrade them.
Green Energy
The benefits of green energy should be easy to see now that these tips have been shown to you. Remember that green energy is beneficial for both you and the environment. Use the advice you have read in this article, and you will be well on your way to becoming green.
