As a result of our current economic struggles, green energy has become more popular than ever. Implementation of green energy is relatively inexpensive when it comes to the environment and the consumer. Continue reading to get some basic green energy tips.
Use solar-powered lamps for outdoor lighting. Solar-powered lamps are usually inexpensive, and they don’t need any power source besides the sun. This does more than just save energy. It also means you do not to have string up those outdoor lights.
Whenever possible, use cold water to wash your clothing. The majority of energy use from washing clothes is in the heating of the water. As long as the washing detergent you use is reliable, using cold water instead of hot water will wash your clothes just as well. Don’t forget to wait until you have a full load of laundry to wash; that is the energy efficient way.
If you are aiming to save energy and money, try running the dishwasher only when the load is completely full. A lot of energy is wasted when only a few dishes are washed at a time. A dishwasher can surprisingly hold a lot of dishes. Try your best to align your dishes properly so that you maximize your space in your dishwasher, play Tetris with your dishwasher.
Plan out and calculate your energy consumption rates for your home solar system for the winter months so that you know what you can consumer on a daily basis. Using this metric means you will meet your energy needs in the winter, while greatly exceeding them in the summer. If you’re using a net-usage plan, in the summer you’ll get cash back from your utility provider.
Maintain your refrigerator. The refrigerator hogs energy, so it should work well. Make a regular habit of removing dust from the refrigerator’s heating coils. Also, make sure that the seal around the door is clean and tight.
Storm Doors
Storm doors and windows offer better air flow in the home. Storm doors and windows lessen the amount of cold air drafts that come in. Homes which have stormed windows and doors increase their energy efficiency by as much as 45% which also ends up costing you a lot less on your utility bills.
Replace your tank-style water heater with a green, tankless model. Tankless versions still need electricity or gas to heat water, but they are more effective in heating solely the water necessary instead of a huge tank of water constantly. Tankless heaters are available in models that supply the entire house or a single faucet with hot water.
If green energy is a concept which you embrace, minimize the use of electrical heaters during the winter months. Using a fireplace and wearing warm clothing are good, energy-saving alternatives to using electric heaters. It helps breathing, and prevents dry airways if you make the air cooler during sleeping.
Renewable Energy
Pay attention to local and federal rebates for renewable energy updates on your home. Sometimes, your local utility company can give you a rebate based on what the upgrades cost. You may also qualify for tax credits or deductions from your state or from the federal government. These rebates, credits, and other allowances can make it much more affordable to install renewable energy equipment on your property.
Opt out of snail mail where possible, and choose to get bills and notices by email. Go paperless with any company that has the option. This kills two birds with one stone: you save energy and encourage businesses with whom you correspond to do so, as well. This protects the environment, too.
Try using a solar oven for your baking needs. You can make these with boxes, old windows or old pieces of foil that can be used for reflection. This oven uses only solar energy and can reach cooking temperatures in excess of 300 degrees.
In addition to saving you money, the advice from this article will help to protect the environment. In a down economy, using green energy is a smart way to lower your bills, which saves money while saving the plant for future generations.