The Earth needs our help to keep it healthy, and green energy is one great way we can help this process along. From solar energy to wind power, there are many ways of obtaining energy that are environmentally friendly. So now, you may be wondering what you can do to lead a green life? Read further to find out more.
Making small adjustments to the way you use energy every day can ultimately reduce your consumption. When a certain appliance is not in use, unplug it. Turn off lights, television sets and other small appliances when you are done using them. This simple little suggestion can save you money.
Take advantage of government grants if you plan to invest in renewable energy sources. Ask at your local municipality office to research what types of programs might be available to you. You may qualify for wind or solar installation with little cost, or possibly you may be able to use it as deduction on your taxes.
Solar Panels
Install solar panels and reap the benefits easily. There are several things that should be considered prior to installing solar panels. Think about how much sun your house typically gets. If your home is mostly in the shade, or if you live in a location that receives little sun, your power gain may be minimal.
Wash clothes with cold water, as much as you can. Almost 90% of energy used for doing laundry is due to heating the water. If your detergent is of good quality, you should have no problems using cold water. Don’t forget to wait until you have a full load of laundry to wash; that is the energy efficient way.
Research different types of energy sources which may be available in your area. Compare the costs of various utilities, and take current or pending energy legislation into consideration. 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.
Indirect Systems
Take advantage of solar energy to heat your home’s water without breaking the bank. Purchase a hot water system that uses solar energy. There are direct circulation systems as well as indirect systems. Indirect systems are the best option for those who have frozen pipes during the winter.
Storm doors and windows can make air flow in the home better. Storm windows are good at cutting down on the cool air that tries to get in. Energy efficiency is increased by 45 percent in homes that have stormed doors and windows, which will save a lot of money on electricity.
Dress more warmly to be green and reduce energy costs. You can wear a heavy sweater instead of a light one to give yourself more warmth when you’re at home. You don’t have to wear a t-shirt and shorts in your home, so dress warmly and save money!
Do some research and learn about passive and active solar powers. Active power is power that is stored to be used for a later time, while passive power doesn’t require power storage cells. Active systems are what you would normally think of when you think of solar–PV cells, mechanical parts, and storage devices. Passive solar power is simply making use of the sun to keep thermal energy in your walls so you can heat your home.
When doing any updates to your home, look for energy-efficient products. One of the most popular products to increase the energy efficiency of your home are double-pane windows that have received a high energy star rating. You cut your cooling and heating costs when you use these items as well.
Unless you’re freezing to death, don’t turn the heat all the way up. If it’s a bit chilly, put sweatpants or a sweatshirt on. When you keep the heat unnecessarily high you use far more energy than you need to–and that is expensive!
Now more than ever, it’s important that we make the transition to greener forms of energy. While there’s no power source that doesn’t impact the environment in some way, with green energy, we can minimize the impact that it does have. Hopefully, this article has taught you what you need to know to put a lot more green in your life today.
