Maintaining green energy in the home is one of the best ways to ensure that the environment is being protected, while cutting energy costs. Purchasing an electric car is not necessary for this to occur. This article has some great, simple ways to improve energy efficiency.
Use natural fabrics in the summer instead of turning up the AC. Natural fibers like cotton can absorb moisture from your skin, helping you feel cooler. You can also try wearing lighter colors, they help you feel cooler, lessening your need for artificial cold air.
Are you a farm owner? 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. You and your neighbors will benefit from free energy and this installation will not take a lot of space.
The government has made grants for investing in renewable energy available to the public. Contact your city or county government and ask about energy conservation programs available in your area. You may qualify for wind or solar installation with little cost, or possibly you may be able to use it as deduction on your taxes.
Putting in solar panels in your home for solar energy is easy. There are some things that should be further looked in to before doing this. The number one to think about is the amount of sun your home gets. If you live somewhere where the sun doesn’t shine often, or in a shady location, you won’t get as much benefit from solar power.
If you use fuel oil to heat your home, speak with a technician to see if it’s possible to change to bio-diesel. Many heating systems are able to change over to some biodiesel use without needing modifications or extra parts. Biodiesel burns more cleanly and will improve your carbon footprint.
Check with a technician and see if switching to biodiesel for your home instead of fuel oil is a viable option for you. Depending on your system, you may be able to switch to biodiesel without having to make any modifications to your system. Biodiesel fuel runs more efficiently and is cleaner for the environment, reducing your home’s impact on the environment during winter months.
Keep covers on your windows when not in your home. This cools the house and cuts energy costs. Usually, the windows facing the south get more sun because of where they are in the house. Cover all of these windows with curtains, blinds or roller shades.
Heating your water with the power of the sun can be very efficient. If you live where freezing temperatures aren’t prevalent, you can purchase a system that can circulate water via a solar heater prior to being pumped to your home. You should still retain traditional water heaters for backup when the sun doesn’t show, or if you use a lot of heated water.
Dry your clothes on a line or rack in the summer instead of a dryer. The sun can dry clothes quickly without using any power, with the added benefit of making your clothes smell extra-fresh. They will smell a lot fresher than if you were to use a dryer. Also, your utility bills will be greatly decreased.
To conserve energy and save money, only run the dishwasher when you have a full load. Try to refrain from putting small amounts in and running the dishwasher. Dishwashers can usually hold many dishes. Strategically load your dishwasher so that you fit in as many dishes as possible.
Use solar energy to provide hot water cheaply. Buy a hot-water system that is solar-powered. You have a choice between both an indirect or direct circulation system. Indirect systems are the best if you have frozen pipes during the winter.
You can save energy by changing your furnace filter, getting a thermostat that is programmable and using light bulbs that are energy efficient. Set an example to your family members, and they will see how simple it is to be green. Keep these tips in mind and apply them!