Many people want to go green but have no idea how to go about it. There are various solutions on how to help customers conserve the environment by using alternative, renewable energy. The following article illustrates many of these technologies and other ways to have a positive impact on the environment.
Switch to solar heating systems for water to lower your cost of indoor water. Heating water with natural gas or electricity is not that efficient, but with solar energy, water takes the suns energy and keeps temperatures steady. While many of these upgrades have high up-front costs, they may qualify for tax credits or other rebates.
One way to conserve energy is to make sure your windows aren’t exposed to direct sunlight. You can do this by putting up blinds or curtains. These actions will reduce the air conditioning usage during the hot summer months, and yet your home will still remain cooler. You will save energy and money as well.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are an easy addition to your home that helps you and your family go green. There are a few things to consider before installing them. One of the main things to consider prior to installing solar panels is the amount of sunlight your home gets. If your house is usually in the shade, solar panels will provide limited additional power.
Consume energy more wisely by unplugging your device chargers when they are not in use. Cell phone and mp3 chargers draw energy even if they aren’t charging anything.
Do you have a farm? If you do, or if you are aware of someone that does, you may be able to rent some of the property to a local energy company that will install a type of wind turbine. Not only does it take up very little space, both you and the neighbors will greatly benefit from this free energy.
If possible, use cold water in your clothes washer. Having heated water in your washer can use up to nine-tenths of the energy required to run a washing machine. Most good quality laundry detergents work just as well in cold water. Additionally, it is more energy-efficient if you are washing full loads instead of small ones.
Close the curtains or blinds before you leave the house. Your house will stay cool and you won’t use as much energy this way. Generally, your home’s south-facing walls and windows receive the most sun exposure. Install window coverings like heavy curtains, drapes, roman or roller shades, or blinds on all windows.
Research different types of energy sources which may be available in your area. Check the cost of running your home using these utilities, taking into consideration any recent legislation regarding energy costs. You might be able to save money by switching to well water or natural gas heat.
Green Energy
The introduction to this article emphasized the fact that as the world reaches peak oil, green energy is going to become more and more important to our survival as a species. With the proper information, you will find it much easier to implement green energy properly into your home. By utilizing the information located above, you can begin living an environmentally friendly life today.
