More and more people are going green, and it is easy to see why. Between the savings you obtain and all the environmental benefits, green energy is a definite optimal energy solution. This article will offer you some simple and useful advice on switching to a greener way of living right away!
Use solar-powered lamps for outdoor lighting. These lamps are cheap and don’t require any power besides sun exposure. This not only saves money. Another added convenience is that they do not require any wiring for you to enjoy outside lighting.
Solar Panels
Solar panels can be installed on your roof allowing you to use solar energy. There are a few things to consider before installing them. One major factor to consider with solar panels is the amount of sunlight your home receives. If your home does not get a lot of sunlight, then solar panels will be pretty useless.
If you use fuel oil to heat your home, speak with a technician to see if it’s possible to change to bio-diesel. Sometimes you can make the switch to some use of biodiesel fuels without having to purchase new parts or make costly modifications. Biodiesel runs more efficiently, burns more clean, and costs you less during the winter.
Solar water heaters are a great option for your home. This option is only applicable in areas that do not reach freezing temperatures. If you live in a warm climate, you can use a system that pumps your water through the solar heater before coming out of your pipes. Even though solar water heaters are useful, it is still necessary to have a normal water heater for periods of extended cloudy weather or unusually high hot water use.
Check what other energy sources are available in your neighborhood. Investigate costs for using those utilities, and be aware of any legislation about energy costs. You might be able to save money by switching to well water or natural gas heat.
Instead of using the dryer, dry your laundry outdoors when weather permits. The sun can really make your clothes smell incredible. They will have a much fresher smell than drying them with an appliance will provide. Also, using your dryer less will save you money in energy costs on your utility bills each month.
Turn off electrical items when you’re not using them. When you exit a room, be sure that everything has been fully turned off. Power strips are handy, because you can turn a number of devices off with the flip of one switch.
You can obtain hot water for a cheap cost with solar energy. Check into investing in a water system that is solar-powered. Two types are available, direct and indirect. For colder regions,indirect is a better option.
Installing Storm Windows
Keep your home better insulated and control warm and cool air better by installing storm windows and doors. Storm windows are good at cutting down on the cool air that tries to get in. Installing storm windows and doors can increase energy efficiency by up to 45%.
Don’t use a lot of heat during the winter if it’s not absolutely necessary. If you feel cold, put on a sweater or blanket instead. If you turn the heat up to 75 degrees, you are using a ton of unnecessary energy.
Write reminders for energy-efficient goals and check your utility bills. Simply by being aware of your energy costs will help you be more efficient in your energy output. If you are specifically focusing on reducing your electricity and water consumption, then you are going to be more conscious of lights left on, or dripping taps.
The easiest and best way to decrease energy expenses in the home is to simply turn off lights and devices when you exit a room. You may be shocked by the amount of electricity you can save by starting this simple habit. You not only save a lot of energy but you save money, as well.
5 Gallons
Replace your toilet with a water-saving model. It is estimated that up to 50 percent of a home’s water use is literally flushed down the toilet. Older models of toilets can have a capacity of 5 gallons. That is 5 gallons of wasted water per flush. New water saving models use closer to a gallon and a half of water per flush. This can save 70 percent of the water you used previously.
Now it is up to you to apply what you have learned to make your home a greener place. Taking advantage of green energy not only makes you feel great, but can also have practical benefits. Put these tips to work, in order to make the technology in your home greener and more efficient.
