Recently, a lot of information and writing has been done online in regards to green technology and green energy. The information in this article will help you sort out what is good for your needs, and what is not. The tips in this article will teach you what you need to know to get started with green energy.
Use solar-powered lamps for outdoor lighting. These lamps aren’t very expensive and can save you on power bills because they’re powered by the sun. Not only does this save energy. It also means that you avoid having to go outside and wire up outdoor lights.
Switch to solar heating systems for water to lower your cost of indoor water. Heating your water with natural gas or electricity is inefficient. However, solar water is inexpensive and more efficient. Many of these improvements will cost you a bit up front, but the cost savings and tax deductions will usually more than offset that cost.
Do your best to keep your windows shaded from any sunlight. Closing your blinds and curtains will keep out the sun in summer and keep heat from escaping in winter. Since your home will become cooler, you will not have to use the air conditioning that much. You will save energy and money.
There are many government incentive programs you can take advantage of when it comes to green energy. To find out which programs are available in your area contact your local government. You may qualify for free wind or solar installation, or you may find that you can deduct some of your expenses on your taxes.
Solar Panels
You could easily have solar panels in your house to collect energy from the sun for you to use. However, before doing this, you need to consider a few things. One thing to factor into your considerations is the amount of sun your house actually gets over the year. If you home is shaded, the amount of energy collected from solar panels will be greatly reduced.
Take time to maintain your fridge properly. You have to ensure it is in great working condition, as it sucks up energy like a sponge. Make a regular habit of removing dust from the refrigerator’s heating coils. It’s important to check that the seal is tight and clean around the refrigerator door.
If you would like to live your life green, stay away from excess electric heater usage. A fireplace for the living area, wearing warmer clothing and purchasing some slippers are all greener ways of keeping the family warm. Cool air helps sleeping patterns, as well as improving breathing.
If you can afford it, invest in a laptop rather than using a desktop as they tend to use more energy. This can significantly lower the amount of electricity you use, especially if the computer is on the Internet a lot or uses word processing software. Plus, you can take your laptop with you anywhere you go!
Use LED lights to decorate for the holidays instead of traditional strand lights. According to one study done by the DOE, the United States could save more than 2 billion hours of power, simply by having everyone make this change. The Energy Department showed that more than two billion kh of power could be saved if everyone made the switch. That is the equivalent to the power it would take to run 200,000 homes for a year. Your holiday power bill will be smaller too!
Energy Star
Swap your old appliances for newer ones that have an Energy Star rating. If you buy an Energy Star-rated appliance, it is guaranteed to use far less energy than the one it replaced. Refrigerators and freezers that are Energy Star rated uses approximately twenty percent less energy. While dishwashers and washing machines can save up to fifty percent on energy bills.
Do not forget to turn off anything you do not use, including lights, appliances and electronics. If you were to get in the habit of turning them off, it would cut down tremendously on your energy bill costs. Resolve to turn off lights and equipment when you are not using them.
The internet has too many ideas in random places, but this article concentrates on several good points for you to start with. Each of these simple changes are both easy and affordable, allowing you to start using greener energy right away. Both your family and the environment will benefit from these changes.