Small Things You Can Do To Live Green
There is a wealth of green energy information out there, so it can be hard to find what you need easily.
Use windows covering for when you’re not home. This allows your home to be kept cool when you aren’t there, and in addition, it helps keep energy costs down. More often than not, south-facing windows will let in the most sun due to their positioning. Make sure that all the windows are covered with dark curtains, blinds, roman shades, or whatever shade you choose.
The government has grants available to those who are willing to invest in alternative renewable energy sources. Contact your city or county government and discover the programs available in your area. You can qualify for a free installation or a tax deduction.
Solar water heaters are an inexpensive and efficient way to heat your home’s water. If you live where freezing temperatures aren’t prevalent, you can purchase a system that can circulate water via a solar heater prior to being pumped to your home. Yet make sure that you also have a regular water heater as well just in case the sun decides to not come out for awhile.
Solar panels are easy addition to your home that helps you and your family go green. There are a few things that should be considered prior to installing them. A big consideration is how much sunlight your home receives on average.
Instead of using the dryer in the summertime, hang clothes outside in the warm sunshine. You’ll love how your clothes smell after being sun-dried. It is a fresher smell than you would get from the dryer. You will also save on your utilities bills by line drying your laundry.
Consider solar water heaters for your home. If you live in a sunny climate, consider a system that circulates water through solar heaters before sending it into your house. However, it’s best to keep a traditional heater for times when you need a lot of heated water, or if the sun does not come out for some time.
Run the dishwasher when it’s full instead of half-full in order to save energy and money. Try to refrain from putting small amounts in and running the dishwasher. It will likely surprise you how much you can actually put into your dishwasher when you load it properly. Make sure you take time to place the dishes in properly so as to maximize the space available.
When you plan a solar system for your home, calculate the potential energy generation of the system using hours of sunshine in the winter. This will ensure that you are not caught short during winter, and it keeps you ahead of the game for summer months.
Turn you appliances off when you are not using them. When you leave a room, take the time to turn off lights, the tv or the computer. 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.
Use a tankless and more green instead of a tank style heater. Even though you still need electricity or gas in order to heat water with these tanks, they only need it to warm the water you’re using instead of heating it at all times. Tankless heaters can supply the whole house or certain faucets.
If you are planning a solar system for your home, be sure to calculate your potential energy production using the amount of sun to expect in the cloudiest month. You will have more than enough energy during the summer months, while avoiding falling short during the winter. If you have a net usage program you will get money returned to you from your utility company for energy generated by you.
Instead, wear multiple layers, slippers and socks, and heat your living areas with a pellet stove or fireplace.
When you have a solar energy system installed, ensure that the batteries that hold the power are situated in close proximity to the cells. This helps prevent power loss in the cables. It will also minimize the possibility of a cable shading out the cells and lowering their generation capability.
Use a laptop instead of a desktop computer to save electricity and enhance your mobility.Laptops use about 75% less electricity than desktops, especially during non-demanding tasks like surfing the web or word processing. Not to mention, the laptop offers you the benefit of taking it anywhere.
Desktop computers are very power hungry. Try using a laptop as an alternative. Laptops use up to 75% less electricity than desktops, especially during non-demanding tasks like surfing the web or word processing. Not only that, the laptop offers you the benefit of taking it anywhere.
If you have children that you take to school or sporting activities, try setting up a ride-sharing service, and trade off the days you will drive. You can even carpool to the supermarket with friends that live near you.
There is a lot you can do to change your lifestyle and live in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly world. You may not be able to spend a lot of money going green, but you can start by cleaning furnace filters each month and setting heat at 60 degrees when not at home. Cutting your water heater temperature down to 120 degrees is another way to conserve energy and see smaller utility bills. Every little thing you can do will help.
While you may not have found your online search about greener energy sources very productive, this article will provide you with the necessary information you need. All of these tips are cheap and simple way to bring changes to your home so you can begin using green energy soon. Not only will your family be happier, the environment will see several benefits.
Write yourself reminders to stay on top of new energy efficiency goals, and check every utility bill against the previous year’s to see if you are making gains. You can reduce your energy use just by being aware of what you are spending. For example, making a decision to reduce electricity usage will help you develop a habit to turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
