In these times, we are trending towards finding different solutions to use green energy in our everyday lives. So, what exactly is green energy anyway? The accepted definition generally encompasses two points. First are renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. The second facet is technology that uses less energy, thereby having a positive impact on the environment. Green energy savings can be made in all homes and this article is here to show you how.
Switch to water heating systems that use solar power to heat hot tubs, pools and indoor water. Heating your water with natural gas or electricity is inefficient. However, solar water is inexpensive and more efficient. By doing certain upgrades to your home, you can often earn extra incentives and even cut backs on your energy bill.
If you want to preserve energy, keep your windows so they are shaded from sunlight. Another option is installing darkening shades. When you use these two things in tandem, you will find your heating and cooling bills will plummet. Not only does this conserve energy, but it lowers your utility bills.
Do some research to gain information on the energy sources available to your area. Calculate the expense of using these types of utilities while noting any recent legislation pertaining to energy costs. For example, it might be wise to use natural gas instead of electric heat or water from the well rather than city water.
Turn off appliances if you are not using them. When you exit a room, be sure to turn off any unused electronics or lights. Use power strips for home electronics. As well, turn this off when you’re not using your electronics. Products in standby mode still waste power.
As you plan for a solar energy array, use winter time sunshine hours to calculate from. You will have more than enough energy during the summer months, while avoiding falling short during the winter. Be sure to get a net-usage plan with the energy company so that you can get money from them when you put the surplus energy onto their grid.
Take the time to properly maintain your refrigerator. Refrigerators take lots of energy to run, so it’s crucial to make sure it is running effectively. Regularly make sure the heating coils are dust-free. Make sure the door seal is clean and also tight.
Upgrading your water heater to a tankless style saves a lot of energy. Even though you still need electricity or gas in order to heat water with these tanks, they use only the water you need instead of always keeping your whole tank heated. There are tankless heaters designed to not only provide one area with hot water, but also to heat entire houses.
Make your home energy-efficient with products that conserve power. If you install double-glazing on your windows, weather-sealed doors, and other similar products, you can drastically decrease the amount of electricity needed for your home. These products will help you reduce the costs of heating and cooling.
Before you decide on large energy-saving projects for your home, get a professional evaluation of your existing appliances, windows and insulation and your heating and cooling systems. They can provide an estimate of how much money inefficient appliances and systems are costing you, and they can tell you what upgrading or replacing such systems will cost.
Don’t turn the thermostat up higher than needed in your home. If it is a little chilly, simply put on a sweatshirt, and pair of sweatpants. When the heat is turned up to a high level, a lot of unnecessary energy is used.
Write yourself reminders to stay on top of new energy efficiency goals, and check every utility bill against the previous year’s to see if you are making gains. Just thinking more about your energy usage will help you to change habits that lead you to over-use energy. Your deliberate efforts to reduce your electricity or water consumption will have a significant impact on your ability to form habits out of turning off lights and shutting down appliances.
Energy Star Appliances
Energy Star appliances help save energy. Energy Star appliances are guaranteed to use less energy than those made previously. The amount of energy saved varies by appliances; you can save a lot of energy on your washing machine, refrigerator and dishwasher use if you switch to Energy Star appliances.
One of the oldest tips in the book is to make sure that you turn off all electronics and lights when you leave any room to save energy. Turning off lights habitually will add up to great energy savings over time. An additional advantage is lower electric bills.
Weatherize your home for more energy efficiency. A few of the most important things to do include sealing ducts, replacing windows, installing a modern water heater and adding insulation to your attic and walls. The lower energy use will also reduce your energy bill!
Heat each individual room separately to save energy and money on your heat bill. The best method for doing this is by getting a heating solution for your floor that gives you the opportunity to monitor many different areas of your home and choose specific temperatures. This is a wonderful solution for larger homes.
To save on electricity costs and usage, be stingy about light usage. Don’t turn on any of your lights before it gets dark, especially during months where you get a lot of sunlight. Install dimmers to reduce the amount of energy lights require, and use sensors or timers to prevent lights from staying on when no one is in the room.
As was stated in the above article, green energy is currently pretty popular. Renewable energy sources and more efficient technology will all help the environment. Use the advice from this article to become a part of this green trend and help out the environment while lowering your energy costs today.
