There is a lot of green energy information out there, and it can all be a little overwhelming. This article is going to give you information that will help you on the path to making use of green energy at home.
Use a solar water heat system to lower water and heating costs. Solar water heaters use the sun’s energy to heat water resulting in energy savings. While a few of the upgrades are costlier up front, they might be eligible for tax deductions or green energy tax credits.
Natural Fabrics
Wear natural fabrics during the summer in order to avoid wasting energy on air conditioning. Cotton and other natural fabrics actually remove moisture from the skin, resulting in a cooler feel. You may feel warmer when you wear warm-colored clothing, so wear light-colored clothing in order to use the air conditioner less.
When doing laundry, try to use cold water. Having heated water in your washer can use up to nine-tenths of the energy required to run a washing machine. As long as your detergent is good, cold water washing can be just as effective as warm water. Also, make sure your load is a full one so you do not waste energy washing several small loads.
If you use fuel oil to heat your home, ask a professional if you can use biodiesel. You might even find that you can switch your system to partial biodiesel without having to purchase parts or hire a contractor to perform modifications. Biodiesel burns more cleanly and will improve your carbon footprint.
Consider solar water heaters to make your home more energy efficient. If you live in an area where freezing temperatures are not a problem, you can purchase a system that heats water through a heater that is solar before it pumps it in your home. However, you should still have a traditional water heater as backup for times when the sun won’t come out or if you’re going to be using a lot of hot water.
Know the available energy options in your community. Compare the costs of operating your home using several of these utilities, making sure to take into consideration any legislation with regard to energy costs that has recently been passed. It may be beneficial to switch from electric heat to natural gas heat, or from city water to well water, for example.
Wait until your dishwasher is full before running it if you want to save energy. Don’t run it when there are only a few dishes there. Once you learn how to properly fill a dishwasher, you will be amazed at the number of dishes that can be washed in one load. Set up the plates so that you fill it up as much as possible.
If green energy is a concept which you embrace, minimize the use of electrical heaters during the winter months. Instead, wear multiple layers, slippers and socks, or even consider investing in a stove or fireplace. Also, it has been shown that people sleep better in cooler temperatures.
Degrees Warmer
If you’d like to be more environmentally friendly and cut down on your energy costs, try wearing warmer clothing. You will feel 2 degrees warmer with a light sweater, and 4 degrees warmer with a heavy one. Add a hat, scarf and gloves for even more warmth. It is unnecessary to dress scantily at home, so pick up a sweater and save some money!
The internet has too many ideas in random places, but this article concentrates on several good points for you to start with. Each of these simple changes are both easy and affordable, allowing you to start using greener energy right away. Not only will your family appreciate your efforts, but the planet will, as well.