There are many individuals out there wanting to live a green lifestyle, but really do not know how to start. While there are alternative energy sources, like solar and wind, there are also green habits that can be started today. The article below discusses some great ways to go green.
Just start using less energy every day. When you aren’t using an appliance, unplug it. Turn off the lights and TV when not in the room. This simple tip can save you a lot of money.
Do your best to consume the least amount of energy possible in your home. Do things like unplug any electronic device that you aren’t using that may still be plugged into an outlet. Your charger still uses energy while it’s plugged in, even if it isn’t charging anything.
Switch to water heating systems that use solar power to heat hot tubs, pools and indoor water. Using gas or electricity to heat water isn’t efficient. However, solar water heaters use the sun to make water comfortable and reduce energy consumption. Some of these upgrades, while more expensive up-front, may qualify for green energy tax deductions.
Use cold water for laundry, whenever you can. Almost 90 percent of energy consumed by washing machines is used when heating the water. Provided you are using the right laundry detergent, you will not see a cleanliness difference by washing in cold water. In addition, remember that a washing machine will be most energy efficient when it is full.
Shading your windows from direct sunlight can help you use less energy. Another suggestion for window treatments is installing curtains or blinds. By utilizing these ideas, you will drop your AC costs dramatically as your house remains cooler during the summer. You will save energy, as well as money.
On hot, summer days, hang your clothes outside. Your clothing will have a great smell from the sun. Your clothes will smell fresher when dried naturally rather than in the dryer. You will also be saving money on your utility bills.
When it’s hot outside, wear clothing made of natural materials rather than running the air conditioner. Natural fabrics, including cotton, cause moisture to move away from the body, which means it stays cooler. You may feel warmer when you wear warm-colored clothing, so wear light-colored clothing in order to use the air conditioner less.
If you want to reduce your carbon footprint as well as save some money, do a load of dishwashing only when the dishwasher is filled to capacity. Avoid running the dishwasher when there isn’t a full load to run. You may be quite surprised at the number of dishes your dishwasher can handle in one load. Experiment with different ways of loading the dishwasher in order to fit in as many dishes as possible.
If you have a farm try some energy saving alternatives. If you do happen to own some farmland, try renting some of the land to a power company that specializes in wind energy solutions. You could take advantage of the energy offered and the space requirements are minimal.
Storm doors and windows offer better air flow in the home. This will reduce drafts, make your home more comfortable, and reduce your energy usage. When homes have windows and doors that are stormed, 45 percent less energy is used, which can decrease electric bills.
Biodiesel fuel might be an option if your current heat source is fuel oil. A lot of the existing systems can be modified with minimal parts or alterations. Biodiesel burns much cleaner, is more efficient than petroleum, and will lessen the impact your home has on the environment in wintertime.
Use a laptop rather than a desktop computer to save electricity and enhance your mobility. Laptops use about 75% less electricity than desktops, especially if the desktop is being used for the Internet or software programs. In addition, the laptop is portable and be used anywhere in the house.
You can consider getting solar water heaters to heat your water. 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. However, you should still have a traditional water heater as backup for times when the sun won’t come out or if you’re going to be using a lot of hot water.
Pay attention to local and federal rebates for renewable energy updates on your home. In some instances, the local company gives rebates for upgrading to green tech. Also, you will find that you can get a tax deduction or a credit from the federal or state government. Rebates and tax credits can make it a lot cheaper to upgrade your home, to make it more energy efficient.
If you would like to reduce the cost of your hot water, use solar energy. Build a hot-water system based on solar energy. Your options include direct circulation systems and indirect ones. If frozen pipes are a concern where you live, the indirect option is probably better.
Use e-mail over snail mail as much as possible. In short, try to be paperless all the time. You help both you and other businesses you communicate with save resources and energy. This benefits everyone in society along with your own business.
Don’t use electric heaters unless you have to during the winter months. You can save electricity by avoiding these devices. A fireplace for the living area, wearing warmer clothing and purchasing some slippers are all greener ways of keeping the family warm. Cool air helps sleeping patterns, as well as improving breathing.
You can heat your home using biofuels. These fuels are made up of animal or vegetable fats, oils and wood. If you have a propane furnace, you may be able to have a professional retrofit your furnace to work with biofuel blend. This is between 20 to 99% biodiesel. Talk to a professional before you use these types of fuels so you can do it safely.
Watch your watt usage. There are many items on the market you can buy to track your energy use, such as the Kill-a-Watt. Plug the appliance into the device, and it can tell you the amount of energy it uses within an hour, month, or even a year. This is helpful in showing you exactly what each appliance costs to run.
An old, yet good tip, for those looking to save on energy is to turn off your lights whenever you leave a room. You could save quite a bit of energy if you are diligent about turning off the lights. You will also enjoy a lower power bill, saving you money every month.
When Christmas or other holidays roll around, try LED decorative lights instead of traditional lights to spruce up your home. A US study shows The United States Department of Energy states over 2 billion hours of kilowatt power could by saved by a nationwide change. That’s a large amount of electricity–it would power 200,000 homes over the course of the year. Even if you don’t care about those big numbers, you should care that you can personally save money by going green.
Don’t overlook your utility company’s resources when it comes to making your home greener. Many utility companies have tools on their websites that will help you see how much energy you use, right down to the hour, as well as, ways to reduce your electric consumption and energy costs. Make sure you investigate all programs and rebates offered if you buy energy-efficient items, from large appliances to light bulbs.
Another great idea would be to use bio-fuels for house heating. These fuels are comprised of vegetable or animal fats, wood and oils. You can hire a professional to adjust your propane furnace to be capable of using any type of fuel you desire. This would be about 20-99 percent biodiesel. Talk to a professional before you use these types of fuels so you can do it safely.
Energy Star
A simple way to jump on the green energy bandwagon is through your utility provider. Utility providers often have the option to buy your energy from renewable resources. Be sure to also check out any programs they have to help you purchase energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs.
Energy efficient appliances have Energy Star logos. The ENERGY STAR seal indicates appliances that meet the guidelines which have been established by the U.S. Dept. of Energy and also the EPA. ENERGY STAR products are useful for tax credits.
If you spend the money on green appliances and electronics now, you’ll save over time. While they are usually going to be more expensive, green technology products greatly reduce energy usage and, thereby, save money. It also results in long-lasting environmental benefits.
Use motion detection sensors on lights in the most popular rooms of your house. These sensors automatically turn the lights off in rooms that aren’t being used, which saves energy, and in the long run, lots of money. Use these sensors on outdoor garage lighting, as well.
Keep an eye out for Energy Star labels when shopping for energy-efficient appliances. Appliances that designate themselves as being ENERGY STAR compliant are those that have met guidelines set by the U.S. Dept. of Energy and also the EPA. Sometimes these products offer tax rebates.
Weatherizing your home will help your home be more energy efficient. You can greatly reduce your home’s energy by sealing ducts, installing energy efficient windows, and adding insulation. Also, you will greatly reduce your energy bill.
By weatherizing your home, you can improve its energy efficiency. You can reduce the energy needs of your home with energy efficient windows, heating and cooling systems, and by adding insulation and sealing ducts. You may also see real savings on your energy bill!
As stated above, green energy is a political topic that is getting more and more important since cheap oil is being phased out. Armed with the right information, turning “green” is much easier than you think. Use the information offered here, and you can start living a greener life.
Get your home greener by being more responsible with how much light you are using. In the brighter months, don’t turn lights on until past a certain time. Dimmers along with timers and light sensors can be used to lessen the amount of light you use when not needed.
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