Converting to greener sources of energy is not nearly as difficult as it may first seem. No matter if the changes you make are small or big, you are positively impacting the environment. Keep reading for insight as to how to go about making the change to a more environmentally friendly energy option.
Use a solar water heat system to lower water and heating costs. Heating your water with natural gas or electricity is inefficient. However, solar water is inexpensive and more efficient. Although these upgrades could cost a lot, they also might qualify for energy tax deductions.
Unplug your chargers when they aren’t being used to charge your devices. Charging devices for several common types of electronics, including laptops, cell phones, and MP3 players all draw “phantom power” if you keep them plugged in while they are idle.
When away from home, cover the windows. These help your home remain cool and keep your energy bill down when you are not there. Usually, the windows facing the south get more sun because of where they are in the house. When possible, however, cover all of your windows with special shades like roller shades, roman shades or dark, thick curtains.
Maybe you can use solar water heaters instead of traditional heating methods. This works best in areas where the temperature doesn’t drop below freezing. Solar energy systems circulate water through solar heaters and then pump it into the house. As is true with many solar options, you should keep your traditional water heater for times when there is not enough sun, or in case you need to use a lot of water.
Make use of your dishwasher only when you have a full load in order to save energy and money. Don’t run it with only two or three dishes inside. It will likely surprise you how much you can actually put into your dishwasher when you load it properly. Think carefully about where you place each dish for optimal storage in the washer.
Batteries need to be situated closely to the cells in solar power systems. No power will be lost during the transfer from the cells to the batteries by doing this. It also lowers the risk of the cable casting a shadow over the cells, which reduces their ability to generate power.
Choose a laptop instead of a desktop PC to save energy. You can actually save up to 75% on your electrical usage, especially if you use your computer all the time. You can also bring your computer anywhere if you have a laptop.
Existing Systems
If you aren’t sold on making a large green energy investment at home, then bring in a professional heating expert or plumber to take a look at your existing systems. They can tell you if your appliances are running efficiently, and if there are changes you can make. They may also be able to offer estimates as to what it would cost to replace or upgrade your existing systems.
Going green does not have to be hard. As this article has shown, there are plenty of easy ways to make your life a little bit greener. Make sure you use the advice given here today. Although the effort isn’t considerable, going green does have some tremendously great effects.