Do you know the advantages of green energy? Not only does it lower your electricity bill, but it also benefits the earth. How are you able to help? In the next few paragraphs, you’ll learn some useful techniques that will let you contribute to this important cause.
There are many government incentive programs you can take advantage of when it comes to green energy. Do some research with your local authorities and ascertain if they run any types of programs within your district. There might be programs in your area that can allow you to install solar or wind energy solutions for free or with taxable deductions if you qualify for them.
Solar Panels
Solar panels that collect solar energy to be used are easy to have installed at your home. There are some things that should be further looked in to before doing this. One major factor to consider with solar panels is the amount of sunlight your home receives. If your home is mostly in the shade, or if you live in a location that receives little sun, your power gain may be minimal.
Are you lucky enough to own a farm? If you own a farm, consider installing an energy turbine on your property, or renting land to a utility company for that purpose. The energy generated can benefit your entire area without taking up much room.
When you can, wash your clothes using cold water. Almost 90 percent of energy consumed by washing machines is used when heating the water. As long as you have reliable clothes washing detergent, using cold water is just as effective. It is also better to clean a full load, not smaller loads.
Maybe you can use solar water heaters instead of traditional heating methods. If you live in a region that is not at risk for freezing, it is possible to install a system that pumps water into a solar heater, then pumps it into your house. As is true with many solar options, you should keep your traditional water heater for times when there is not enough sun, or in case you need to use a lot of water.
Instead of using a clothes dryer, hang your clothes in the sun to dry in the summer months. The sun can really make your clothes smell incredible. They’ll be smelling much fresher than if they were just dried in a dryer. Additionally, you will save both money and energy.
Consider how many hours of sunlight you can expect in the winter as you plan your solar system, so that you know how much energy you can expect it to generate. This will ensure that you are not caught short during winter, and you have excess during the summer. If you’re using a net-usage plan, in the summer you’ll get cash back from your utility provider.
Fans of green energy should limit their use of electric heaters in the winter. Instead, wear multiple layers, slippers and socks, or even consider investing in a stove or fireplace. Keep in mind that it is actually better to breathe cool air while you sleep, since it keeps your airways from becoming dry.
Active Solar Power
Try to learn about passive and active solar power. Active power is stored for use at a later time, passive does not require expensive cells to store the power. You need to install solar panels and systems if you want active solar power. Passive systems use the sun’s rays to store energy withing the walls of your home and are significantly cheaper.
Desktop computers are very power hungry. Try using a laptop as an alternative. This can lower your electrical use by as much as 75%, particularly if you are someone who stays on the Internet for long periods of time. You can also bring your computer anywhere if you have a laptop.
Keep your heat on at a moderate level. Don’t increase it unless it is a necessity. If it’s a bit chilly, put sweatpants or a sweatshirt on. When heat is raised to a higher level you end up using a lot of energy you didn’t really need to use.
People are often intrigued by green energy, but don’t bother learning more about it or how to use it. This article should have offered some ideas for you to go green!