
The variety of green energy options are staggering, yet easily done in a cost-effective way. The information gathered here will get you started on your journey toward using green energy and reaping its many benefits.
Heating Systems
Lower the cost of heating your indoor water, pools and hot tubs by switching to solar water heating systems. Solar water heaters are much more energy efficient than electric or gas-driven water heating systems. Solar systems use the sun’s energy to stabilize water temperature. In the United States there are many tax deductions for energy efficient green products.
Keeping your windows shaded to keep sunlight out of the house will greatly conserve energy. Closing your blinds and curtains will keep out the sun in summer and keep heat from escaping in winter. Both of these adjustments can help you cut back on using the air conditioner, since your house will remain cooler. The result is a significant energy savings and money in your pocket!
Use natural fabrics in the summer instead of turning up the AC. Fabrics, such as cotton, draw moisture naturally from the skin, making it cooler. You may feel warmer when you wear warm-colored clothing, so wear light-colored clothing in order to use the air conditioner less.
You can save electricity by unplugging chargers when they are not in use. Chargers for laptops, mp3 players, cell phones and other devices use power when they’re plugged in. This happens regardless of whether you’re using the device or not.
Use window coverings when you’re not at home. You will lower your energy costs since this will help keep your home nice and cool. South-facing windows get maximum sun. Dark drapes, or even energy-efficient lined drapes, are your best bet.
Do your research when it comes to the available energy sources where you live. Check to see how much it would cost to run your home with these other utilities, and remember to take into account the government bonuses that are sometimes available. You may choose, for example, to go from electric to natural gas for heating, or using a well instead of city water.
During the summer, you should try drying your clothes out in the sun instead of using a dryer. You’ll love how your clothes smell after being sun-dried. Your clothes will smell fresher when dried naturally rather than in the dryer. As well, you save quite a bit on monthly utility costs.
When you are not using something, turn it off. Make sure that all lights are off when you exit a room, and also consider switching off the power for your television set, computer and stereo. Put all of your entertainment electronics on a power strip you can turn off, as this will stop appliances from going into a power draining stand-by mode.
When thinking about home solar systems, think about how much energy will be produced during winter. This can prevent any nasty surprises during winter, and it can leave you ahead in the summer. If your electric company bills on net usage, you will actually make money because yu generate more power than you consume.
Electric heaters should only be used when necessary in order to be more green. Buy more warm clothing and use a fireplace to add heat to your home. Cool air helps sleeping patterns, as well as improving breathing.
Take the time to evaluate your watt usage. Get a watt monitor such as the Watt Minder or the Kill-A-Watt to find out which appliances use too much energy. If you attach the device to the appliances in your home, it will let you know how much energy that appliance uses for different lengths of time. This can let you see how much your devices really cost you.
The number of lights that are left on, or appliances that are run half full is astounding. Just by making some simple mindset alterations, a large amount of money can be saved in energy costs. Consider what you are doing before it is done, and turn those appliances and lights off when you are finished using them.
60 Degrees
One way to reduce energy consumption is to lower your thermostat in the winter. Consider setting your thermostat to 60 degrees during the night or while you are away. Setting the thermostat to 60 degrees will help cut energy usage. You will decrease energy used and increase money saved.
It’s a great idea to seal the freezer and fridge so you don’t waste energy. A broken seal can cause your refrigerator to run unnecessarily, wasting energy and hurting your pocketbook at the same time. To test the seal, put paper in the crack of your door and test how easily it slides out. If it slides out easily, it is time to replace your seal.
Green Energy
Because this article offers easy tips, don’t excuse yourself from using green energy. Becoming a green energy user allows for some peace of mind and more money in your budget. Implement these ideas today and make tomorrow a little brighter.