Switching to green sounds onerous, but it’s easier than you think. Whether you desire to make simple changes or if you decide to do something big, you will be helping our environment. Use some of the effective tips below to begin the change to green energy in your home.
Use a solar water heater to keep your pools, tubs and plumbing full of piping hot, but cheap, water. Traditional gas and electricity are not that efficient, but solar-powered water heaters glean the sun’s natural energy to maintain even temperatures. In the United States there are many tax deductions for energy efficient green products.
Wear natural fabrics during the summer in order to avoid wasting energy on air conditioning. By wearing natural fabrics, such as cotton, you will keep moisture away from your skin and help it stay cooler. Wear lighter colored clothes, as darker colors tend to make you feel hotter, which results in your putting on the AC.
Do you have a farm? Consider renting out a small space where a power company can place a wind turbine. You and your neighbors will benefit from free energy and this installation will not take a lot of space.
Energy Costs
Do some research to gain information on the energy sources available to your area. Consider the expense of energy use in your home utilizing these energy sources while noting recent legislation about energy costs. For instance, you may save on energy costs by heating your home with gas instead of with electricity or by using well water instead of city water.
If you utilize a dishwasher, avoiding using it until it’s filled up. It makes use of a fixed amount of energy no matter the amount of dishes it has. Try using the energy-saving air-drying setting on your dishwasher.
Solar Energy
Solar energy can heat water for a lesser cost. Purchase a hot water system that uses solar energy. You have a choice between both an indirect or direct circulation system. The indirect system is best if you don’t want to worry about your pipes freezing in the winter.
When you consider solar heat for your home calculate potential hours of sunshine for energy generation during the winter months. This can prevent any nasty surprises during winter, and it can leave you ahead in the summer. If you generate excess energy during the summer, with the right plan, your utility company will send you a check!
When you install a solar energy system, place the batteries close to the cells. Power can be lost in long cables so this will reduce this possibility. Additionally, it avoids problems with shading and capacity reduction.
Solar Power
Do some research and learn about passive and active solar powers. While active power requires storage cells, passive power doesn’t. Active solar power requires a lot of involvement in the form of installation, mechanics, and power cells. Passive solar power uses the heat of the sun to hold thermal energy within your home.
Use a laptop instead of a desktop computer. These portable machines will reduce your electrical use by 75% while you do everyday tasks. An added bonus is the portability of a laptop- you can take it anywhere you go!
If you’re unsure about green investments, get an expert to provide a consultation that will optimize your energy usage. They can tell you the amount of money you will save, and quote the cost of a new system.
Try using a carpool if you want to reduce fuel consumption. If you have kids, set up a carpool system in your neighborhood and trade off days with other parents. Plan your shopping days to correspond with those of your friends. That way you can share a vehicle and the costs of fuel.
Use the microwave instead if you’d like to save energy. Cooking in the oven or on the stove top uses a lot of energy. So, never shy away from the microwave when using it is an option. You will save time, money, and energy by making this choice.
If you spend the additional money to purchase green appliances and electronics, over a period of time it will pay off. Energy savings, coupled with monetary savings, will make the investment worthwhile over the longer term. It will also have a positive impact on the environment.
A good way to save on energy is to set your heat to 60 degrees while you aren’t home, or at night when you’re asleep. Keeping your home at this low temperature means very little energy is used. The result is lower energy consumption and cost.
Solar Panels
If you want to transform your home into a “green home,” the iconic way to do this is by installing solar panels. Although solar panels can be expensive, they will save money on electricity costs. After the panels are installed, solar energy is pretty much free. You may even be able to sell some of this energy to your local electric company.
It does not have to be all that complicated to go green. There are many ways you can approach this conversion. Make sure you use the tips you have just read. It might not take a ton of effort, but using green energy can be a positive change.
