Cutting back on how many resources run your home can be easy. Without a lot of effort, you may be able to use less energy and save yourself some money. Here are some places you can start.
One of the simplest ways to help save the environment is to use less energy. When not using a certain appliance, unplug it from the outlet. Always turn off the television and lights when you are not using them. This is an easy, money-saving tip.
Lower heating costs with solar heating systems for your pools or hot tubs. Using natural gas and electricity is certainly the norm, but it’s not very energy efficient. By contrast, solar energy is very efficient, and it keeps water temperatures steady just as well as traditional heating methods. Many of these improvements will cost you a bit up front, but the cost savings and tax deductions will usually more than offset that cost.
There are many government incentive programs you can take advantage of when it comes to green energy. Talk to your local representative to see if programs operate in your neighborhood. You may qualify for wind or solar installation with little cost, or possibly you may be able to use it as deduction on your taxes.
Installing solar panels is a great way to save electricity. However, there are several things to consider before making any decisions. You should definitely consider how much sun your home is exposed to. You can’t take as much advantage of solar energy if your house gets a lot of shade rather than sun.
Be a better consumer of energy, and cut your home energy usage by unplugging your electronic chargers when they are not in use. Even if you are not charging your laptop, cell phone or mp3 player, just having it plugged in uses energy.
Wind Turbine
Are you living on a farm? If you do, then you probably own property. This might be an opportunity to rent a portion of that property to a company that will build a wind turbine on it. The wind turbine will provide free energy without taking up much room. Your neighbors will also benefit from this energy source.
Clean or replace the filters on your furnace once each year, and check once a month to see if they need to be cleaned. Filters can also be installed in every warm-air register. These filters keep children’s toys, dirt or dust from clogging the heating ducts.
Close the curtains or blinds before you leave the house. They will help to keep the temperature and the energy consumption of the house down when the house is vacant. More often than not, south-facing windows will let in the most sun due to their positioning. Dark drapes, or even energy-efficient lined drapes, are your best bet.
Use the ideas laid out here and apply them to your daily home life. You will be saving the environment and reducing your bills at the same time. Work on it a little at a time, and you will find that you have a greener home in no time.