There are so many different ways to use green energy in your home that you’ll be shocked by how simple and cost-effective it can be. This article will give you some great information for using green energy at home, so you can reap its benefits.
Check your furnace and air conditioning filters monthly. Clean or replace them as needed. If your air intakes and registers do not have filters, take the time to install them. These filters keep debris or toys from entering the duct-work, which could reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Close the curtains or blinds before you leave the house. They will help to keep the temperature and the energy consumption of the house down when the house is vacant. Typically windows on the southern side of the home receive the most sun. Install window coverings like heavy curtains, drapes, roman or roller shades, or blinds on all windows.
Think about heating your water with solar water heaters. Best for locations with a warmer climate, a solar water heater uses the sun’s energy to heat water that circulates through it. You still should keep your regular water heater as a backup because there may be times when there isn’t a lot of sun or you have to use a lot of water that’s hot.
If you utilize a dishwasher, avoiding using it until it’s filled up. It will use the same quantity of water or energy even if one dish is in it. When you do use the dishwasher, be certain to always use the setting for saving energy, which air-dries your dishes.
Solar Energy
A solar energy array can be the cheapest way to getting your hot water. Simply put, all you need is a hot water system that uses solar energy. Your options include direct circulation systems and indirect ones. Indirect systems are the best option for those who have frozen pipes during the winter.
Use electric heaters minimally in the winter. In order to do this, you need to do two things. First, buy the necessary clothing and slippers, to keep family members warm. Second, use a pellet stove or fireplace for heating. It is better to sleep in cooler air, it helps you breathe, and keeps your airways moist.
Use a laptop instead of a desktop computer. You can actually save up to 75% on your electrical usage, especially if you use your computer all the time. Laptops are also portable which makes them much more functional and handy in times of need.
Take the time to evaluate your watt usage. Use gadgets like the Watt Minder and the Kill-A-Watt so that you can discover what uses the most energy. You can tell how much energy it uses by plugging the appliance into it. This is helpful in showing you exactly what each appliance costs to run.
Energy Star
Get appliances that have an Energy Star rating. An Energy Star appliance is built to use less energy than non-Energy Star appliances. Refrigerators and freezers use 20% less energy and dishwashers use 40% less. Energy Star rated washing machines save at least 50% of the energy used by the older styles and also save a lot of water.
Do not forget the most basic ways to save energy, such as turning off the lights you don’t need. Shutting off your lights when you leave a room is a simple act, but it will surprise you by the amount of energy it saves. You not only save a lot of energy but you save money, as well.
Water heaters with on-demand technology exist today, and they are a great way to use green energy. Traditional water heaters run constantly, wasting energy because they heat water when it isn’t needed. The on-demand water heater will heat water instantly and save you money on energy.
This article is full of easy, simple tips, which means there is no excuse not to get started. Greening your home will save you money, help the environment and bring you some peace of mind!