It’s crucial to care for the planet, and that alone should move people to rally for green energy. From wind power to solar energy, there are a lot of different ways to live in a more sustainable environment. So, you are probably wondering how to make green changes in your life. Keep reading to find out.
You might be able to get a government grant to finance your green energy installation. Check out your local government so that you can see what type of programs are available in your area. For example you may be able to qualify for a grant for the installation of solar or wind powered technologies.
When battery chargers and other electronics are not in use, unplug them. Chargers for laptops, mp3 players, cell phones and other devices use power when they’re plugged in. This happens regardless of whether you’re using the device or not.
If you currently use fuel oil for home heating, ask your local technician how you can switch over to biodiesel fuel. You might even find that you can switch your system to partial biodiesel without having to purchase parts or hire a contractor to perform modifications. Biodiesel is a better fuel because it has a cleaner burn and is more efficient.
Heating your water with the power of the sun can be very efficient. Best for locations with a warmer climate, a solar water heater uses the sun’s energy to heat water that circulates through it. Yet make sure that you also have a regular water heater as well just in case the sun decides to not come out for awhile.
A good way to conserve energy is to not use your dishwasher unless it is completely full. Do not simply place a few dishes into it and run it. The amount of dishes that can be placed in a washer is astounding. Take care to line up your dishes, so you are able to put in as many as you can.
It is important that if you take advantage of a dishwasher, that you only use it when you have a full load. Dishwashers consume a similar amount of water and electricity regardless of whether it contains one dish or 20. Using the air-dry setting will save energy when you run the dishwasher.
If you want to have hot water, but at a lower cost, then check into solar energy. Solar hot-water systems can reduce your energy bills significantly. There are systems available that circulate the heat both directly and indirectly. If frozen pipes are common in your area, an indirect water heater will be your best option.
Batteries need to be situated closely to the cells in solar power systems. This prevents power from getting lost in the cables. It can also reduce the chance of a cable shading a cell, and reducing its generation capability.
Keep your refrigerator well maintained. Refrigerators use a large amount of electricity, and keeping it in good condition ensures this energy footprint is as low as it can be. Every week, check and see if dust has accumulated near the heating coils. If it has, take the time to remove it. Make sure the door seal is clean and also tight.
Storm Windows
To help prevent drafts, install storm doors and storm windows. Storm doors and windows lessen the amount of cold air drafts that come in. Sometimes electric savings can be up to 45 percent on homes that have storm windows as opposed to single pane windows.
Learn all you can about solar power that is active and passive. Passive solar power is power on demand and does not require cells for power storage. Active solar power has plenty of power storing ability so you will have energy ready anytime you may need it. If you use active power, you will need to install mechanical systems, solar panels and cells. Passive solar power is simply making use of the sun to keep thermal energy in your walls so you can heat your home.
It is more important than ever to increase our use of green energy. Of course it is true that there is no such thing as a source of energy that does not have some sort of environmental impact, but green energy is still far better than traditional energy. By using the ideas in this article, you should be able to start adding more green to your life.
