It can be easier to cut back on resources used for running your home than you may think. After making some small, and larger, changes to your home, you will drop your environmental impact and save money. Read this article for some ideas on how to do this.
Using less energy daily means large energy and financial savings. If an appliance is not in use, unplug it. Turn off lights, television sets and other small appliances when you are done using them. This simple tip can save you a lot of money.
Energy Sources
Find out about the various energy sources that are available in your local community. Compare costs, and keep in mind that new legislation exists which will sometimes reward you for using renewable energy sources. You may find that natural gas will be better for your home than electric, or that well water is an available alternative to city water.
Instead of using the dryer in the summertime, hang clothes outside in the warm sunshine. The sun will dry your clothing for free and the summer breeze will leave it smelling amazing. You clothes will smell clean and fresh when line dried. Also, your utility bills will be greatly decreased.
If you clean your dishes using a dishwasher, don’t run it until it’s completely full. The dishwasher uses the same energy when full that it uses when empty, but you’ll have to run it less often. When running the dishwasher, turn on the setting for energy conservation.
Using solar energy is one good way to heat water. Consider a solar water heater. It is possible to chose between direct and indirect circulation systems. Indirect systems are the best option for those who have frozen pipes during the winter.
Storm Doors
In homes with storm doors and windows, air flow is controlled better. Storm doors and windows stop drafts from letting in so much cold air. Storm doors and windows can help save as much as 45 percent on energy costs.
Get rid of your old water heater and put in a green, tankless one. While heaters that are tankless still need electricity or gas, they will not heat more water than you need, which is what a water tank heater does. There are tankless heaters designed to not only provide one area with hot water, but also to heat entire houses.
Look for ways to include the tips discussed here in your own home. Your energy bills will go down and the good you are doing for your environment will increase. Just take one step at a time. Soon you’ll be running a much greener home than you ever expected.
