Reducing the amount of energy your home uses from the electricity company might be a lot easier than you think. Reduce the carbon footprint of your home and save money through big or small changes to your energy sources. The article below will give you some ideas and suggestions that will help you get started to becoming a greener consumer.
Lower the cost of heating your indoor water, pools and hot tubs by switching to solar water heating systems. Traditional gas and electricity are not that efficient, but solar-powered water heaters glean the sun’s natural energy to maintain even temperatures. These types of upgrades, while more costly at first, may qualify you for a green energy deduction on your taxes.
The government has set up several incentive programs to help consumers switch to renewable energy sources. Ask your local authorities what kinds of programs are available in your area. It may be possible for you to get wind or solar installation for free, or you may be able to get a deductions on your taxes.
Check whether your furnace filters need to be replaced each month. Make sure that you actually replace these filters at least once each year. You should put filters in registers that are warm-air too. Doing so will prevent debris in heating ducts and it reduces energy.
When you can, wash your laundry in cold water. Almost 90% of energy used for doing laundry is due to heating the water. If your detergent is of good quality, you should have no problems using cold water. It is also better to clean a full load, not smaller loads.
Make sure when you aren’t using something to turn it off. When you leave an area take the time to turn off lights, televisions, stereos, computers, and other electrical items you are not going to be using. Use power strips for your electronics, and make sure to turn it of when you are not using it. If it is in standby it’s still wasting power.
Incorporate the ideas you just read into your daily activities. Energy bills will decrease and you will protect the environment, too! Keep working at it a little at a time, and ultimately your home is going to be the greenest in your neighborhood!