Have you considered green energy but find that you’re unsure of where to start? Have you been overwhelmed by the options and prices of green energy systems? Embrace a future of green energy by putting the advice within this article to good use.
Be a smarter energy consumer by unplugging your electronic device chargers when they are not in use. Your charger still uses energy while it’s plugged in, even if it isn’t charging anything.
Window Coverings
When not at home, use window coverings. This will keep the house cool and reduce energy costs. Typically, the south facing windows are the ones that get the most amount of sun due to their location. Install window coverings like heavy curtains, drapes, roman or roller shades, or blinds on all windows.
Purchase a solar water heater to warm up your water. If you live somewhere where you don’t have to be concerned with temperatures that are freezing, you can use a system that circulates water through the solar heater before it gets pumped into your home. 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.
When weather is good, skip the energy-hogging dryer and dry your clothes on an outdoor clothesline. The sun gives your clothes a great smell. They’ll be smelling much fresher than if they were just dried in a dryer. Additionally, you will save both money and energy.
Calculate potential energy generation during the planning of buying home solar systems. As winter sunlight is much lower than summer, you will want to be able to plan for higher energy costs in winter. If you’re using a net-usage plan, in the summer you’ll get cash back from your utility provider.
Use electric heaters minimally in the winter. Dress more warmly when around the house. Wear slippers and a heavy top, and light up your fireplace or pellet stove for increased warmth at low cost. Keep in mind that it is actually better to breathe cool air while you sleep, since it keeps your airways from becoming dry.
Dress more warmly to be green and reduce energy costs. By simply putting on a sweater, you can improve your heated temperature by between 2 to 4 degrees. It’s not necessary to wear so little at home, so out on a sweatshirt and save some cash!
There are many renewable energy rebates offered by the government, so be aware of them. There are times when your utility company can offer discounts and rebates for your upgrade costs. You may also get state and federal tax deductions for making your home more energy efficient. These offers make installing and using a green energy system much more affordable.
Watch how many watts you use. There are devices like Watt Minder or Kill-A-Watt that can monitor your wattage and help you see what is consuming energy. If you attach the device to the appliances in your home, it will let you know how much energy that appliance uses for different lengths of time. You can use this to identify your most expensive energy-hogging appliances.
What is the best way to use green energy in your home? This article has shown you how to find these answers and has hopefully provided the inspiration to get started. You’ll be surprised by the results you see.