Many people want to do their part to save the environment, but have no clue what actions they need to take to do so. There are a lot of different solutions out there which can help consumers care for the environment such as, taking advantage of renewable and alternative energy sources. The following article will describe some of those green energy solutions.Use a solar-solar powered system to heat water. 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. Some of these upgrades, while more expensive up-front, may qualify for green energy tax deductions.There are government grants available for investing in renewable energy. To find out which programs are available in your area contact your local government. You may be eligible for free wind or solar installation, or at the very least be allowed to deduct your costs when you do your taxes.
Solar Panels
Solar panels that collect solar energy to be used are easy to have installed at your home. But, you must think about some things prior to doing this. The number one to think about is the amount of sun your home gets. If your home does not get a lot of sunlight, then solar panels will be pretty useless.Think about how much sun your home gets during winter months to help you figure out how much solar energy you need to power your home. This will guarantee that you will have energy no matter what the weather brings, and it will result in a surplus during the summer. An even better benefit is that you can sell your energy back to the grid in the sunniest of times!Choose a laptop instead of a desktop PC to save energy. It can mean a savings of up to seventy-five percent on the electricity if you are a frequent Internet user or if you use word-processing software. The laptop has the added benefit of being portable, so you can use it anywhere!Try to get your mail, like bills, sent to you through email. To put it more simply, use paper as little as you can. This will not only help businesses lower their energy costs, but you as well. An added bonus is that everyone benefits by the protection of our environment.A solar oven is a fun and effective way to reduce your energy needs for cooking. You can make these with simple items, such as boxes, an old window, and some foil for reflection. This oven uses only solar energy and can reach cooking temperatures in excess of 300 degrees.Consider carpooling for different occasions to save on fuel costs. If you live in a neighborhood with lots of children, try setting up a ride-sharing service, where you trade rides with other parents in the neighborhood. If you have friends or family nearby, consider combining grocery trips together, alternating driving duties.
A good tip is to always microwave when cooking in order to save energy. Stoves and ovens use a lot more energy than microwaves. So, when you’re microwaving things, remember you are saving on energy.An on-demand (tankless) water heater is very green. Older water heaters are always running and always heating water whether it is needed or not, which is a waste of energy. On-demand models provide hot water instantly when necessary, instead of continuously throughout the day, saving you money and energy.Many people don’t turn off appliances when not using them. If a person put this practice into action, he or she would save a huge amount on the electric bill. Think in advance about what you need to do, and make it a habit to turn off anything that you are no longer using.Your electric company can be a great resource for taking a look at how you can make your house energy-efficient. 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. Check out programs that help you buy energy-efficient light bulbs or appliances.Consider changing out your old windows and replacing them with newer, more energy-efficient models. There are so many benefits in having new windows, including the money you will save on energy, the reduction of drafts and the fact that your home will no longer be damaged from condensation.
Energy Star
Look for appliances that have the Energy Star sticker or logo. Any products that have the ENERGY STAR logo are in compliance with the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency. In addition to this, only ENERGY STAR appliances can be used for tax rebates.Reducing your thermostat to 60 degrees when the house is vacant will save you more energy than you may think. At 60 degrees, your home uses far less energy than keeping the temperature higher. You can save money on your utility bills by reducing your energy consumption in this way.In conclusion, not only are many politicians speaking about green energy, but it has become important since cheap oil cannot be found anymore. With relevant advice, you will find that you can easily make your life more green. Remember this advice, and go green today!