The Internet is a vast knowledge source, and there’s so much new technology out there that sometimes the amount of information can be overwhelming. This article will show you the basics, so you can begin taking advantage of the many benefits of green energy.
Instead of turning on the air conditioner, wear fabrics made of natural materials. Fabrics, such as cotton, draw the moisture further from your skin and let it stay cooler. Wear lighter colored clothes, as darker colors tend to make you feel hotter, which results in your putting on the AC.
There are government grants available for investing in renewable energy. Ask your local authorities what kinds of programs are available in your area. You could qualify for a no-cost wind or solar installation, or at the very least, receive a tax deduction.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are easy to install. Before you do this, you should research just a few things first. A big consideration is how much sunlight does your home typically receive? If you home is shaded, the amount of energy collected from solar panels will be greatly reduced.
Make your home more energy efficient by unplugging your unused electronic devices. Unplug your electronic devices when they are not being used or fully charged. This wastes energy otherwise.
Check monthly to determine if your furnace’s filters need cleaning and replace them yearly. You should also install filters on any warm-air registers included with your furnace. Debris (and small toys) will not reach the heating ducts to clog the main filter.
Biodiesel is a great alternative to the standard oil used to heat a home. There are many systems that can switch to biodiesel with needing significant modification. Biodiesel is a clean choice when it comes to fuel, and using it will reduce the impact that your family has on the environment.
Cover your windows when no one is at home. This cools the house and cuts energy costs. Usually the windows with the most sun are the one’s which face south. Use dark curtains, roman shades, roller shades or other coverings on all windows.
As you plan for a solar energy array, use winter time sunshine hours to calculate from. This will ensure that you are not caught short during winter, and you have excess during the summer. If your plan is contingent on net usage, you will even get money back from your utility company because of the excess energy you are creating!
Maintaining your refrigerator is an easy way to save energy. Refrigerators take lots of energy to run, so it’s crucial to make sure it is running effectively. Make a regular habit of removing dust from the refrigerator’s heating coils. Check the door seal for dirt, debris and leaks.
Storm Doors
In homes with storm doors and windows, air flow is controlled better. These special storm doors and windows prevent cold air and drafts from entering the home. Storm doors and windows can help save as much as 45 percent on energy costs.
When looking at solar power, know the difference between passive solar power and active. While active power requires storage cells, passive power doesn’t. Active power requires the installation of solar panels, mechanical systems, and cells. Passive power, instead, just stores the energy gotten from the sun inside your home.
If you are not sure about making improvements to your home, hire professionals that can look over your systems and offer you ideas of what you can do to make your home more green. These consultants will visit your home, assess your energy usage, and provide options at several price points for making smart and economical green upgrades.
Try receiving as much messaging as you can via email. Specifically, go paperless whenever you can. Reducing your consumption of paper saves energy on production costs, along with the costs of shredding documents in your home. This protects the environment, too.
Keep your heat on at a moderate level. Don’t increase it unless it is a necessity. If you are feeling cold, add a layer of clothing instead of reaching for the thermostat. Higher levels of heat use a lot of excess energy!
Energy Star
Replace any old major appliances with new Energy Star rated appliances. To receive an Energy Star rating from the government, appliances must meet minimum efficiency standards, unlike the non-rated appliances you may currently own. 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.
Applying these ideas is a lot easier than sorting through all the tips available online. The information you just read lets you make simple, affordable changes to help you make your home greener. Your pocketbook, your conscience, and the environment will appreciate your effort.