While utilizing green energy can seem like it requires a significant amount of effort, it is in fact relatively easy. No matter whether you make a few minor alterations or do something more significant, you can have a positive effect on the environment. This article will give some great tips for making the switch to green energy.
Wear natural fabrics instead of always using the air conditioning during summer. Moisture-wicking athletic fabrics pull moisture away from your skin, creating a cooling sensation. If you wear lighter colors, you will also feel cooler than if you wore black or another dark color.
The government has set up several incentive programs to help consumers switch to renewable energy sources. Contact your local government in order to see the different programs available in your area. You may qualify to have wind or solar power installed at no cost to you. At a minimum they may allow you to deduct the charges from your taxes.
Are you a farmer? If you have one, an energy company may be interested in renting a portion of the property to install a wind turbine. The turbine will provide free energy to you and close neighbors, and won’t take up much space.
Wash clothing in cold water. Almost 90% of the power you use to do laundry is simply used to heat the water. If your detergent is decent, cold water will be as effective as hot when cleaning your laundry. Furthermore, bear in mind that you will get maximum efficiency from washing a load that is full, rather then multiple small loads.
Close the curtains or blinds before you leave the house. The result will be a cooler house because the window’s admit less heat. Generally, your home’s south-facing walls and windows receive the most sun exposure. Window coverings such as roller shades, roman shades or dark curtains can be used on all windows.
Using the sun to heat your water is very cost effective. Get a solar hot-water system. Research the benefits of an indirect versus direct circulation system. Indirect is best if you have cold winters and worry about pipes freezing.
A good benchmark to use when determining how much power a new solar system is likely to generate is the number of hours of sunlight in the winter. This will guarantee that you will have energy no matter what the weather brings, and it will result in a surplus during the summer. You can actually get money back from your utility company for any energy your generate if you’re on the net usage plan.
When implementing a solar energy system, put the batteries as close to the cells as possible. Power is less likely to be lost in cables this way. It also lessens any chance the cable will shade the cells, which reduces their generation capability.
Don’t use your electric heater when you can avoid it. Use a fireplace in place of the heater and wear warm layers of clothing. It helps breathing, and prevents dry airways if you make the air cooler during sleeping.
Solar Power
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 will require a large installation process and can cost a great deal more. Passive systems simply use the sun’s energy to heat your house or water.
You can increase the energy efficiency of your home by buying energy saving products. Insulated double-pane windows and eco-friendly doors are especially effective for saving energy. These products will help you reduce the costs of heating and cooling.
Start carpooling to take care of many of your daily tasks. Don’t think of it as just an option for commuting to work. Kids can also form carpools to school by alternating parents days. If you are near friends and family, go food shopping together and take turns driving.
Energy Star
Appliances with the Energy Star certification bear a distinctive logo that makes them easy to identify. ENERGY STAR appliances are designed to follow guidelines from the U.S. Department of Energy in addition to the Environmental Protection Agency. You may have to purchase these appliances to get tax rebates.
Heat each individual room separately to save energy and money on your heat bill. The best ways to do this is by using floor heating, including a main board which lets you choose specific temperatures. If you live in a large home, this is a wonderful solution.
It can be surprisingly easy to go green. There are different ways to reduce your energy consumption, save money and find alternative sources of energy. Use everything you just read to help you. Although going green may not take much effort, it can result in a lot of benefits to you.