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By using green energy, you can save on energy costs and care for the environment. Purchasing an electric car is not necessary! This article has some great, simple ways to improve energy efficiency.
When creating an outdoor light set up for a garden path or patio, think of solar powered lamps as an option. These lamps are inexpensive and do not require any kind of power source other than exposure to the sun. This, of course, will save you a lot of money. As an added benefit, you are spared the trouble of running an outdoor wiring system.
Use solar heating systems to heat all your water in order to save money. Heating your water with natural gas or electricity is inefficient. However, solar water is inexpensive and more efficient. While some upgrades cost more initially, they can qualify you for deductions on your tax return for using green energy.
Cut down on air conditioning by wearing natural fibers in the summer. Natural fabrics, such as cotton, remove moisture from skin so that you stay cool. You can also try wearing lighter colors, they help you feel cooler, lessening your need for artificial cold air.
Do you live on a farm? If you do, or if you are aware of someone that does, you may be able to rent some of the property to a local energy company that will install a type of wind turbine. Your home and the surrounding residences will get some free power. Don’t worry, wind turbines don’t take up a lot of room.
Whenever possible, use cold water to wash your clothing. Having heated water in your washer can use up to nine-tenths of the energy required to run a washing machine. As long as the washing detergent you use is reliable, using cold water instead of hot water will wash your clothes just as well. Also, make sure your load is a full one so you do not waste energy washing several small loads.
Take advantage of solar energy to heat your home’s water without breaking the bank. There are many solar hot-water appliances to get the job done. Research the benefits of an indirect versus direct circulation system. The indirect system is best if you don’t want to worry about your pipes freezing in the winter.
When planning out your solar PV system, try to locate the battery storage system as close to the cells as possible. This will prevent power from being lost in the cable. You also will not have to worry about the cells being shaded by a cable and not producing as much energy as they could.
Maintain your refrigerator well. Refrigerators constantly use energy to maintain cooler temperatures. If it is not properly cared for, it will use much more energy than it needs to. Keep heating coils dust free. Also, ensure that the door seals tightly and that it is clean.
Storm Doors
Storm doors and storm windows help to better control air flow in the home. Storm doors and windows stop drafts from letting in so much cold air. Energy efficiency can be increased up to 45% in a home with storm windows and doors.
Use electric heaters minimally in the winter. Wrap up your family in warmer clothes and make use of your fireplace for added warmth. This is good for your health as well as your electric bill. Breathing cooler air at night helps keep your respiratory system healthy; you’ll avoid drying out your airways.
If you don’t know what changes to make, consider having a heating expert or plumber come to your home and give you a list of changes you can make to cut your energy costs. They should be able to inform you about extra expenses you are paying for inefficient appliances, as well as the amount it would cost to upgrade to newer, energy-efficient models.
A solar oven is an energy efficient way of baking. You can make these with simple items, such as boxes, an old window, and some foil for reflection. They don’t use any outside energy and can get up to 300 degrees.
Use your microwave whenever you can reasonably use it. Each time you cook in the oven or stove, you tend to use lots of energy. Take advantage of the microwave when you can.
As odd as it sounds, the majority of people do not bother to disconnect or turn off lights and electronics when they are not being used. If a person was to practice this daily, it would save them an enormous amount on their energy bills. Consider what you actually use and unplug the rest.
Consider bamboo items when making a wood purchase. Bamboo is a green alternative to wood products and very strong. It is very easy to grow and is becoming more widely available. Retail outlets are selling many bamboo products, from flooring to cutting boards. This can save energy in the manufacturing process, as well as saving in recycling costs later.
A simple way to jump on the green energy bandwagon is through your utility provider. Some of the websites of these companies contain tools to show you the amount of energy you use. They may also provide you with advice on how to cut your energy costs and electricity usage. Also look into any rebate programs which can help offset the cost of purchasing energy-efficient appliances.
Energy Efficient
Keeping your furnace filter current, making use of energy efficient lighting, and using an energy efficient thermostat are very easy ways to help conserve energy and money in your household. Set the example for those around you, and you will see that they quickly follow suit once they see how simple it is to be green. Keep these tips in mind and use them.