Green Energy Isn’t Just For Hippies Anymore! | Green Living

TIP! Check with a technician and see if switching to biodiesel for your home instead of fuel oil is a viable option for you. Many heating systems can be switched over to run on biodiesel without needing extra modifications or parts.

Have you considered using green energy before, but do not know how to begin? Do you think that it will be way too difficult and costly? The time to start is now, and this article will show you some simple, but effective ways to color your home green!

TIP! A solar water heater may be a viable option in your home. This works best in areas where the temperature doesn’t drop below freezing.

There are many government incentive programs you can take advantage of when it comes to green energy. Check out your local government so that you can see what type of programs are available in your area. Who knows, you may qualify for low or no-cost wind or solar installation. Even if you don’t qualify for a grant, you can still use these items as a tax deduction.

TIP! If you clean your dishes using a dishwasher, don’t run it until it’s completely full. The energy used is the same whether you are washing a small load of dishes, or one that is larger.

Replace and clean furnace filters yearly, and check them monthly. Adding filters to your warm-air registers is not a bad idea, either. This reduces debris and small toys from falling into the ducts, which will make them less efficient.

TIP! Batteries need to be situated closely to the cells in solar power systems. This avoids power loss in the cable.

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. Though you can use this system, it’s best to have a regular water heater for backup purposes, just in case there is a day with little sunlight or more water usage than normal.

TIP! Be sure you maintain your refrigerator properly. Refrigerators use a large amount of electricity, and keeping it in good condition ensures this energy footprint is as low as it can be.

Do some research to gain information on the energy sources available to your area. Check the cost of running your home using these utilities, taking into consideration any recent legislation regarding energy costs. For example, it may be cheaper for you to heat your home with natural gas as opposed to electricity, or use well water instead of city water.

TIP! Air flow is controlled best in homes with storm windows and doors. These special storm doors and windows prevent cold air and drafts from entering the home.

During the hot summer months, hang clothes outside rather than tossing them in the dryer. The sun gives your clothes a great smell. Your clothes will smell fresher when dried naturally rather than in the dryer. You can also save money on your energy bills.

TIP! Fans of green energy should limit their use of electric heaters in the winter. Instead, wear multiple layers, slippers and socks, or even consider investing in a stove or fireplace.

Hot water can be obtained in a low cost, environmentally friendly manner through solar energy. There are many solar hot-water appliances to get the job done. You can select from direct circulation systems or indirect varieties. Indirect systems are the best if you have frozen pipes during the winter.

TIP! Spend time in order to learn the difference between passive and active solar power. Active power can be stored for later use.

Put the solar energy system’s batteries close to its cells during installation. Doing so removes the chance of lost energy. It also lowers the possibility of shading the cable cells and lessening their output capacity.

Storm Windows

TIP! If you’re unsure about green investments, get an expert to provide a consultation that will optimize your energy usage. They will let you know how costly your appliances are, and they can give a detailed estimate on how much the costs will be to replace or upgrade your existing systems.

Keep your home better insulated and control warm and cool air better by installing storm windows and doors. Storm windows are good at cutting down on the cool air that tries to get in. Your home’s energy efficiency will increase by as much as 45% if you install storm windows and doors!

TIP! Monitor how many watts you use. There are gadgets out there that will help show you what in your house is using the most energy.

What will it take for you to take advantage of green energy, to improve your home and reduce your energy bill? If you’ve read this article, you have the answer to that question, but you have to start changing your habits if you want a greener home. Once you begin you’ll see results before you know it and be amazed!