Though the workload may seem daunting when converting to green energy, it is really simple. Whether your change is small or large, you’ll be doing good for the environment. Below are tips that will get you on the path to using green energy sources.
Are you living on a farm? If you do, then you probably own property. This might be an opportunity to rent a portion of that property to a company that will build a wind turbine on it. This will provide you with free energy with only a small space investment.
Biodiesel is a great alternative to the standard oil used to heat a home. Switching to biodiesel is often doable without system modification. Bio-diesel is more efficient and burns cleaner than conventional petroleum, which in turn, reduces the environmental impact from your home during the winter.
Use windows covering for when you’re not home. Heavy drapes help keep you home cool, resulting in energy savings. Usually, windows that face south receive the most sunlight. Think about covering all of your windows with different types of shades and curtains.
A solar water heater may be a viable option in your home. This option is only applicable in areas that do not reach freezing temperatures. If you live in a warm climate, you can use a system that pumps your water through the solar heater before coming out of your pipes. Though you can use this system, it’s best to have a regular water heater for backup purposes, just in case there is a day with little sunlight or more water usage than normal.
Investigate all of the energy sources your community has to offer. Compare costs, and keep in mind that new legislation exists which will sometimes reward you for using renewable energy sources. It might be good to switch to natural gas or well water, as an example.
Power Strip
Don’t leave anything on that you aren’t using. Whenever you leave a room, get into the habit of turning off lights, televisions, and computers. The easiest way to do this is to plug everything into a power strip and then just switch that power strip to the off position whenever you need to.
Don’t run the dishwasher unless it is filled to capacity. The dishwasher uses the same energy when full that it uses when empty, but you’ll have to run it less often. Also, use your dishwasher’s energy-saver setting so that the load will air-dry.
Keep your refrigerator in good condition. A refrigerator uses lots of energy so should be kept in good working condition. Clean the dust off of the heating coils on a regular basis. Additionally, you should ensure that the door seal is both tight and free of dirt.
Take advantage of government rebates on renewable energy installations. In some cases, the local utility company will offer rebates for the cost of the upgrades. Other companies may offer tax deductions from your local or federal government. These credits and rebates reduce the price you will pay to install green tech products at home.
Try using a carpool if you want to reduce fuel consumption. Ask other parents in the neighborhood if they are interested in carpooling for their children and trade days with them. Plan your shopping days to correspond with those of your friends. That way you can share a vehicle and the costs of fuel.
Turn off lights when you exit a room. This is a tried-and-true energy saving trick. It’s surprising how much energy is conserved after turning the lights off. In addition, you will save money on your utility bill.
An on-demand heater for water is a smart device for green energy. Old fashioned water heaters would constantly run, heating water even when it is not needed, and therefore wasting energy. On-demand heaters only heat water when necessary, which greatly reduces energy costs.
Energy Star
Any appliances that have this guarantee will most likely have an Energy Star logo branded on them somewhere. ENERGY STAR appliances are designed to follow guidelines from the U.S. Department of Energy and additionally the Environmental Protection Agency. Products that meet ENERGY STAR criteria are usually eligible for some form of tax rebate.
Solar panels can be a great addition for your home, making it more efficient and greener. Solar panels are a large investment, but the savings you will enjoy by using solar energy will make up for the extra expenditure. After your panel is installed, you can get solar energy for free and you could also sell a part of the power to electric companies.
Changing to greener ways does not need to be difficult. As you have seen in this article, there are many ways to become more green. Start with of few of these simple tips today. It might not take a ton of effort, but using green energy can be a positive change.