A great way to make sure the environment is protected, while slashing energy costs, is to use green energy in your home. You do not have to buy electric cars to make this possible. Continue reading to learn some easy ways you can use more green energy, regardless of your budget.
Lower the cost of heating your indoor water, pools and hot tubs by switching to solar water heating systems. Using gas or electricity to heat water isn’t efficient. However, solar water heaters use the sun to make water comfortable and reduce energy consumption. Although these upgrades could cost a lot, they also might qualify for energy tax deductions.
Be a better consumer of energy, and cut your home energy usage by unplugging your electronic chargers when they are not in use. Anytime a charger is plugged in, it is using a bit of energy.
Window Coverings
When you are away from home, use window coverings. They will help to keep the temperature and the energy consumption of the house down when the house is vacant. Usually, windows that face south receive the most sunlight. Window coverings such as roller shades, roman shades or dark curtains can be used on all windows.
Don’t run the dishwasher unless it’s full in order to save energy and money. It’s sacrilege to turn it on with just one or two dishes inside. Dishwashers can usually hold many dishes. When loading the dishwasher, align the dishes in a way that allows you to fit the maximum number of items inside.
Don’t leave appliances that aren’t in use, on. When you leave a room, shut off the lights, TV, computer, game systems, etc. 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.
When putting in a new solar energy system, the batteries that store the power should be kept really close together to the cells. By doing so, energy loss through the cable is reduced. Additionally, the cable cannot shade the cells, which can cause reduction in generation.
Don’t use electric heaters unless you have to during the winter months. You can save electricity by avoiding these devices. Use a fireplace in place of the heater and wear warm layers of clothing. You want to remember that sleeping in cooler air is better for your breathing, and it also prevents the airways from becoming dry.
Change up the way you dress in your home and warm yourself up to avoid turning on the heater if possible. Light or heavy sweaters will both provide you with additional warmth of up to 4 degrees. You don’t have to worry about wearing too little at home so consider getting a sweater to save money.
Use a laptop instead of a desktop computer. It can mean a savings of up to seventy-five percent on the electricity if you are a frequent Internet user or if you use word-processing software. Not to mention, it can be taken anywhere thanks to its portability.
There are a few simple changes you can make to reduce household energy usage, including installing energy-efficient light bulbs and a programmable thermostat, as well as changing your furnace filter regularly. Set an example for your family members, so more people will realize how easy it is to go green! Remember these tips and start using them today.
