Many people are looking to live a green life but really have no idea where to start. While there are alternative energy sources, like solar and wind, there are also green habits that can be started today. By reading this article you will get great hints for using green energy.
By cutting back on electricity use, you will save quite a bit of money. Unplug appliances that aren’t in use. Turn off your TV and lights once you leave a room. This simple little suggestion can save you money.
When creating lightning outdoors for a garden path or patio, consider using solar-powered lamps. They are not only affordable, but they do not have to be hooked up to any power source, needing only good access to sunlight. You save a lot of energy in the process. As an added benefit, you are spared the trouble of running an outdoor wiring system.
To reduce energy usage, sahe your windows to keep out sunlight. Another suggestion for window treatments is installing curtains or blinds. Keeping your home cool in the summer means you will not be tempted to use the air conditioning as much. Not only will you save energy, but you will also save money.
Are you living on a farm? Consider renting out a small space where a power company can place a wind turbine. You and the neighbors can relish in the free energy and installation, if it doesn’t require too much space.
Biodiesel fuel might be an option if your current heat source is fuel oil. A lot of times this can be done with minimal modifications to your existing system. The bonus of doing this is a cleaner burning fuel that is generally also more efficient, and you’ll lessen your impact on the environment also.
Energy Sources
Do your research when it comes to the available energy sources where you live. Compare costs, and keep in mind that new legislation exists which will sometimes reward you for using renewable energy sources. For example, you might see a savings if you switch from electricity to natural gas, or even switch from electricity to solar or wind power.
Instead of using the dryer, dry your laundry outdoors when weather permits. Your clothing will have a great smell from the sun. They will smell fresher than if you used the dryer. Also, your utility bills will be greatly decreased.
Buy products that save energy so that your home is more energy efficient. One of the most popular products to increase the energy efficiency of your home are double-pane windows that have received a high energy star rating. By installing these products, your home is sealed tighter, and you use less energy to heat and cool your home.
Try to get your mail, like bills, sent to you through email. This will help you use less paper and help the planet. This doesn’t only help you communicate and save electricity, it will lower your bills as well. In addition, it also protects the environment.
Keep an eye on how many watts of electricity you use. Watt Minder and Kill-A-Watt are both tools that help to monitor energy consumption. When you plug an electrical appliance into the monitor, it displays how much energy it requires each hour, month, or year. This will show you the cost of your appliance.
Energy Star
Energy Star appliances help save energy. An Energy Star appliance is built to use less energy than non-Energy Star appliances. Fridges and freezers with the rating use at least 20% less energy, dishwashers use 40% less, and washing machines use at least half the energy of non-rated models.
A microwave is a more energy efficient appliance than a stove, so consider using it more often. Any time you cook something on the stove or in the oven it tends to use up a ton of energy. Take advantage of the microwave whenever you can to cut down on your overall energy consumption.
The extra money that you may spend will quickly come back to you. Using energy efficient gadgets and appliances will save you money on your energy bill, which adds up from month to month to equal greater savings for you. It is also one more positive impact on the environment that compounds.
As stated above, the demand for green energy is consistently growing as cheap oil is becoming obsolete. Armed with the right information, turning “green” is much easier than you think. Heed the advice you learned here, and start enjoying your green life today.