If you haven't taken the opportunity to introduce green energy into your life, you are missing out. Green energy is cheaper, safer, and cleaner than traditional sources of energy, and it can also save you money over time. Here are some really smart ways to start using green energy to your advantage.
Start small. Even if you don't have the resources for a large-scale green energy project, there are still steps you can take. For example, solar chargers for small electronics generally only require the device to be set near a window for a few hours. Don't underestimate the power of a small step.
Use natural fabrics http://www.thegreenguide.com/ in the summer instead of turning up the AC. Fabrics, such as cotton, draw moisture naturally from the skin, making it cooler. Wearing lighter colors will also help, because they tend to reflect light.
If your property has a small stream running through it, you can install a micro hydropower system. These systems divert a small amount of the water through a turbine or wheel, providing energy that can be used to light and heat your home. If the flow is strong enough, you can power multiple homes on one of these systems.
Save energy, and your hard-earned dollars, by only using your washing machine and dishwasher when you have a full load. A small load uses just as much energy as a full load and accomplishes a lot less for the energy expenditure. Let laundry stack up another day or two in order to maximize savings and efficiency. Also consider drying clothes outdoors on a clothesline if allowed in your area. The fresh outdoorsy scent can't be beat, and you will show a significant savings in your utility bill if you cut back on your dryer usage.
If you are planning to go green in your home, you may want to consider contacting your utility provider to learn about your options. They may have some great suggestions for you look into. If they do not have the options for you, they can direct you to where you can find them.
To practice good green energy habits you should make it a priority to recycle at home. Anything that is recyclable should be sorted out and stored in a recycle bin. By doing this, you are taking an active role in making sure the environment is safe for everyone while also cutting down on energy costs.
Find out more about ground source heat pumps. These pumps are located under your home and pump the natural heat of the earth to keep you warm. This system can be costly but the pumps use very little power and can last up to fifty years. Invest in this system if you are going to stay in a home for decades.
If you are seeking to save energy, try not to drive too fast. When a person drives fast, they use too much gasoline, which in http://my-led-lighting-guide.tumblr.com/post/142945790408/inforgraphic-retrofit-vs-replacing-a-light turn, wastes energy. Furthermore, when you drive fast and waste too much gasoline, you are going to end up spending way too much money on gas.
Watch for state and federal tax incentives for upgrading your home to use renewable energy sources. Ask your utility company if they offer rebates for green energy upgrades. Additionally, it may be possible to take advantage of tax rebates offered by state and federal governments. Rebates and credits will help to offset the cost of implementing green energy technology you want to add to your home.
You can lower the temperature setting on your water heater and save money at the same time by insulating your water pipes. Just insulating the hot water pipes can reduce heat loss and raise your hot water temperature by 2-4 degrees F. You will save water as well, as it won't take as long for the water to heat up.
A laptop is actually a great alternative for consuming less energy as opposed to using a desktop. This can cut up to 75% of your electrical use, especially if you are frequently on the Internet or using word processing software. Since laptops are portable, you can use them anywhere.
One way to participate in the green energy movement is buying products that are specifically designed to save energy. One of the most popular products to increase the energy efficiency of your home are double-pane windows that have received a high energy star rating. You will also cut down on the cost to heat and cool your home by implementing these products into your life.
Opt for rechargeable over disposable batteries. The debate on using disposable batteries or rechargeable batteries has long been a heavy conversation. Of course, rechargeable batteries are better for the environment, and that is a point that cannot be argued against. After many years, studies have shown that rechargeable batteries also concretely save you money on energy costs as well. It looks like there is nothing to argue about now.
Heat your home with biofuels. The biofuel is produced using fats, wood and oils. You can find a professional to change your furnace if it is propane so that it can heat with the blend of fuels. This would be about 20-99 percent biodiesel. Be sure you discuss any new fuel use in your home with a pro before starting.
New jobs are being created in the booming green tech sector. If you are looking to make changes in your own career, the time could never be better. Learn more about jobs that deal with green energy, including technicians for solar panels or wind turbines.
Most people don't realize that besides using electrical appliances, keeping them plugged in can use large amounts of energy. To keep your costs down, remember to unplug items such as lamps, cell phone chargers, space heaters and even can openers. Plug them in just when you need to use them.
Some forms of insulation do not require professional services but rather can simply be pushed into an open area. These types of insulation are an ideal way to improve the energy efficiency of everything from your attic to your crawl spaces to your basement and the spaces between floors. This type of insulation can also be inserted whenever you repair drywall.
Conserving energy is one of the single most important things that we all can do to make the world a better place. Keeping the environment in mind is necessary to decrease pollution and make global warming a lesser threat. Remember the tips in this article to make your home greener!
