Saving power, heat or water is made possible thanks to alternative sources of energy. If you make some small changes, and even a big one or two, you can lower your environmental impact and save a lot of money. This article will show you how to get started.
Wear natural fabrics instead of using the air conditioning in the summer. Fabrics such as cotton draw moisture from the skin, which allows you to stay much cooler. Wear lighter colors, as warmer colors make you feel warmer and more likely to put on artificial cold air.
Keep covers on your windows when not in your home. These help your home remain cool and keep your energy bill down when you are not there. Typically, windows that face south are positioned so that they receive the most sun. Dark, lined curtains, roman shades or roller shades may be something to consider using on your windows.
Consider switching to solar-powered water heaters for your home. If you happen to live in a climate where freezing water isn’t going to affect you then you might want to invest into a system that circulates water through your solar heater before it is pumped into 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.
During the summer months, hang your clothes outside instead of drying them in the dryer. Using the sun can make clothes smell a lot better. They’ll smell so much better than if you shoved them into a dryer! In addition, you will save a lot of money on your monthly utility bills.
Take time to maintain your fridge properly. Refrigerators use a large amount of energy, so they should be taken care of to work their best. Every week, check and see if dust has accumulated near the heating coils. If it has, take the time to remove it. You should also be sure that the door has a clean and tight seal.
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. Remember, cooler air during sleep is better for breathing, and keeps the airways from drying out.
Solar Power
When looking at solar power, know the difference between passive solar power and active. Active solar power is stored so it can be used later, but passive doesn’t need pricey solar panel cells to store power. Active power needs solar panels installed, cells, and mechanical systems. Passive systems simply use the sun’s energy to heat your house or water.
Find out about federal and local rebates for updates about renewable energy for your home. Local utility companies often offer rebates for upgrades. Other times, you may be eligible for credits or tax deductions from the federal or state government. These rebates and credits can substantially reduce the cost of installing green energy technology in your home.
A solar oven can be made to assist you in your baking needs. A solar oven is very easy to make. All you need is a window, a piece of foil and a sturdy box. The temperature in these ovens can heat up to 300 degrees, they can be put together in a few minutes, and the only energy they use is the sun.
If you are serious about becoming more green, you should keep track of your energy usage from month-to-month and then year-to-year. By being aware of the energy you use, you can start to reduce that consumption. For instance, if your stated goal is to reduce your consumption of electricity and water, you are more apt to remember to turn off the lights and shut off the faucet when not using them.
Think about the ideas provided in this article, and try to come up with a way to implement them in your home. Not only will you have a lower energy bill, the benefit to the environment is much greater. Even small changes can set you on a path toward a greener lifestyle.