There are so many different types of green energy, from solar to wind to water, that they are readily available for use in your own home. If you are looking for information on how to use green energy technology at home, continue on for some helpful tips that will show you how to go about accomplishing this.
Switch to a solar water heater to heat your pools, showers, hot tubs and kitchen faucets to save money. Solar water heaters use the sun’s heat to warm water rather than using natural gas or electricity for heat. These upgrades may cost more, but qualify for tax deductions, too.
Shade your windows from excessive amounts of sunlight to improve the energy efficiency of your home. Use curtains or blinds as an alternative. When you use these two things in tandem, you will find your heating and cooling bills will plummet. Energy and money are both saved this way.
Olored Clothing
Instead of using your air conditioner in the summer, try to wear fabrics that are natural. Cotton and other fabrics draw sweat from the skin and make you cool. You may feel warmer when you wear warm-colored clothing, so wear light-colored clothing in order to use the air conditioner less.
Solar water heaters are an inexpensive and efficient way to heat your home’s water. If you live in a sunny climate, you can use a solar water heater year-round. 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.
Research different sources of green energy available to your community. Look into the cost of operating your home with each of your options, keeping in mind any recent changes to legislation about energy costs. You might find savings by switching from electric to natural gas for heating, or to well water from city water.
During the summer months, hang your clothes outside instead of drying them in the dryer. As well as drying your clothes, the sun can also help your clothes smell nice. They will feel and smell fresher than machine-dried clothes. Also, your utility bills will be greatly decreased.
Put the solar energy system’s batteries close to its cells during installation. This way, you won’t lose power in the cable. This also prevents the long cables from casting shadows over the PV cells.
In homes with storm doors and windows, air flow is controlled better. They will help prevent cold air drafts in your home. Homeowners will see a significant savings on their electric bill and will benefit from an increase in the energy efficiency of their home by up to 45 percent once stormed windows and doors are installed in their homes.
If you are really committed to going green, one way to do so is to limit how often you use your electric heater in winter. Ways to cut down on electricity include wearing warm clothing indoors and using a fireplace to heat your home. Keep in mind that cooler air is better for your breathing while you sleep as it prevents your airways from becoming dry.
Dressing in warm attire can be a great way to cut energy costs while embracing green energy. A sweater that is heavy adds 4 more degrees of warmth, and a lighter sweater adds 2 degrees. There’s no reason you can’t bundle up in the privacy of your own home, so put on a sweater and cut down your energy bill!
Solar Panels
Research solar panels to see if an active or passive set-up is right for your needs. While active power requires storage cells, passive power doesn’t. Active solar powers requires solar panels that need installations as well as mechanical systems and cells. While passive simply uses the sun in storing thermal energy in your walls in order to heat your house.
Buy products that save energy so that your home is more energy efficient. Use products such as double-glazed windows or eco-friendly doors to help reduce your energy usage without sacrificing your home’s needs. Your heat and cooling costs can drop dramatically by using these products.
Replace your old toilet with a water-saving one. It has been estimated that as much as 50 percent of the water which is used in one’s home is flushed down the toilet. Older models of toilets can have a capacity of 5 gallons. That is 5 gallons of wasted water per flush. New water saving models use closer to a gallon and a half of water per flush. This can save 70 percent of the water you used previously.
The number of lights that are left on, or appliances that are run half full is astounding. If everyone did this, a lot of energy and money could be saved. By thinking about the costs involved and how much extra energy you use, should get you to shut off those appliances and lights when not in use.
Ask your electric company for tips and advice on how to cut your electric bill. Several light and utility companies provide tips and tools on their website to let you know the amount of energy you are using and wasting. They may also have programs that offer incentives for purchasing energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances.
There are many techniques to save energy when doing your laundry. First, use the sensor setting that automatically turns off the dryer when the laundry has dried. Use high spin speeds to cut the moisture in laundry; that will cut drying time as well. Make sure to regularly clean lint from dryer filters and vents.
Getting started on green energy today means savings to you and the planet tomorrow. Being environmentally friendly does not take an advanced degree or a scientific background. Use the tips presented here that fit your own situation, and incorporate them into your life. It’s easier than you think.