There is a lot of green energy information out there, and it can all be a little overwhelming. This article will give you important information that will help you start using green technology in your home today.
If you use fuel oil to heat your home, speak with a technician to see if it’s possible to change to bio-diesel. A lot of existing systems can change to some bio-diesel utilization without modifications or using any extra parts. Biodiesel fuel runs more efficiently and is cleaner for the environment, reducing your home’s impact on the environment during winter months.
One thing you might consider is heating your water with solar water heaters. If you live in an area where freezing temperatures are unlikely, you can purchase systems that circulate water through solar heating systems before pumping it inside for use. You should still retain traditional water heaters for backup when the sun doesn’t show, or if you use a lot of heated water.
When you are not using something, turn it off. Turn off lights, televisions and computers if you leave a room and have no plans to return. Get a power strip so you can turn off all of your electronics at the same time, rather than letting energy get wasted in standby mode.
Solar power can heat water for a low cost. Check into investing in a water system that is solar-powered. There are direct circulation systems and indirect ones. Indirect systems are the best option for those who have frozen pipes during the winter.
When planning the solar system used in the home, use winter sunshine hours to determine what potential energy generation will be. This prevents unpleasant surprises in the winter, and it saves money during the summer. However, you should also include any refunds you will get from your utility company for excess energy generated in summer!
Use a model which is tankless and more green instead of a tank style heater. While they do require energy to heat the water, they require only a small amount of energy to heat a smaller amount of water. You can purchase tankless water heaters that are small enough to heat one faucet, or large enough to heat your entire house.
Make use of energy-efficient products to save both money and energy. There are many options for green products, such as double-glazed windows or doors that are energy conscious. These products offer much more efficiency to your home. This type of product is perfect for reducing AC costs.
Try not to turn the heat up too high in your home, unless it is absolutely necessary for you to do so. In colder weather, you can make use of warm pajamas, sweat suits and slippers! When you keep the heat unnecessarily high you use far more energy than you need to–and that is expensive!
Energy Star
Energy Star rated appliances should be used in the home. An Energy Star appliance is built to use less energy than non-Energy Star appliances. Fridges and freezers with the rating use at least 20% less energy, dishwashers use 40% less, and washing machines use at least half the energy of non-rated models.
To save energy during cooking, use your microwave whenever it’s feasible. Any time you use the oven or stove, you’re using a lot of energy. So, whenever you can “nuke” something in the microwave, take advantage of it and tremendously cut down the energy output.
One easy way to go green is to use an on-demand water heater. The older models are constantly running, which ends up wasting energy. You’ll get hot water whenever you need it without having to wait for it to heat up. You’ll also save a lot of energy.
You’ll get more enjoyment out of using these tips than you will while getting overwhelmed by all the information about green energy online. Not only are they very easy, but they are affordable changes that you can start making today. Your family, wallet and environment will all thank you for going green!
