Tag Archive: green energy

Why Ethanol Is Good For Providing A Renewable Fuel Source

March 31, 2017

Use solar-powered lamps for outdoor lighting. This type of lamp is cost-effective and needs no power other than sunlight. This will save significant energy. You also won’t have to spend time wiring your outdoor lights.

TIP! Switch to water heating systems that use solar power to heat hot tubs, pools and indoor water. Using natural gas or electricity is not as efficient as solar power, and solar water heaters can keep the water temperature steady.

If you do not know a lot when it comes to green energy, this guide will supply you the information that you need. You will be able to help not only yourself, but your environment as well. You can incorporate green energy in your daily life in many ways, as the following article will show.

Instead of turning on the air conditioner, wear fabrics made of natural materials. Cotton and similar fabrics will draw moisture from your skin, so you will stay cool. Also, choose lighter colors. Darker colors absorb heat, which makes you feel warmer, meaning you’ll set your thermostat lower.

TIP! Unplug your chargers when they aren’t being used to charge your devices. Anytime a charger is plugged in, it is using a bit of energy.

You can save a phenomenal amount of energy just by using less electricity every day. Unplug appliances whenever you are not going to be using them for awhile. Turn off the lights and TV when not in the room. This is easy to do and saves a lot of energy.

When doing laundry, try to use cold water. Almost 90 percent of the consumed energy while washing your clothes is spent on heating up the water. Washing your clothing in cold water will get them just as clean as washing them in hot water if you have a good laundry detergent. Also, don’t wash your clothes until you can completely fill the washer, as this saves energy over time.

TIP! If you heat your home with fuel, talk to a technician about using biodiesel. Many heating systems can be switched over to run on biodiesel without needing extra modifications or parts.

Reduce the price of heating water in pools, hot tubs and inside your home by using solar-powered heating systems. This is also a very efficient way to heat water and keep it at the proper temperature. Although these upgrades could cost a lot, they also might qualify for energy tax deductions.

Every community offers different energy sources, so research the ones that are available to you. Check to see how much it would cost to run your home with these other utilities, and remember to take into account the government bonuses that are sometimes available. It might be good to switch to natural gas or well water, as an example.

TIP! Solar power can heat water for a low cost. Upgrade your hot water system to one that’s solar-powered.

Be a smarter energy consumer by unplugging your electronic device chargers when they are not in use. Chargers for your electronics, such as an iPod or cell phone, are always using electricity, even when they’re not in use, so unplug them when you can.

If you want to save energy on heating and cooling costs, install storm windows and doors. This will reduce drafts, make your home more comfortable, and reduce your energy usage. Storm windows and doors boosts energy efficiency as much as 45%, which can cut electricity costs.

TIP! One way to save energy is to limit the use of electrical heaters in the winter. Wear several layers of warm clothes instead, and heat main rooms with a pellet stove or fireplace.

Biodiesel fuel might be an option if your current heat source is fuel oil. Switching to biodiesel is often doable without system modification. Biodiesel is cleaner to burn than petroleum, making it more efficient to use in the wintertime.

Learn about the differences between passive and active solar power. When it comes to active power, the energy is stored for later use, while passive doesn’t need expensive cells in order to store power. Active power is about using solar panels, cells and other installations. Passive energy is about using windows and insulation to keep your home warm and well-lit.

TIP! Make energy efficiency a priority by buying products to assist you to reduce energy. Certain green products, like double glazed windows, eco-friendly doors and windows really help reduce the amount of energy needed to run your home efficiently.

You can consider getting solar water heaters to heat your water. This works best in areas where the temperature doesn’t drop below freezing. Solar energy systems circulate water through solar heaters and then pump it into the house. However, it’s best to keep a traditional heater for times when you need a lot of heated water, or if the sun does not come out.

Build and use a solar oven to bake outdoors and save energy. Common items, such as a heavy cardboard box, some shiny foil and an old window are all that you need. They don’t use any outside energy and can get up to 300 degrees.

TIP! A really good energy saving tip is to change your boiler. Many old boilers were not made with saving energy in mind, whereas new boilers tend to be more energy efficient.

During the summer months, hang your clothes outside instead of drying them in the dryer. The sun gives your clothes a great smell. It is a fresher smell than you would get from the dryer. Also, your utility bills will be greatly decreased.

Check your freezer and fridge seals to avoid wasting any energy. If the seal is broken it may cause the refrigerator to keep running, which ends up wasting lots of energy, and costs you extra money on utility bills. An easy way to check to see if your seal is intact is to insert a piece of paper in the door of your refrigerator. If the paper can easily slide out, your seal needs to be replaced.

Green Energy

Using your lights in a responsible manner is a great way to save energy, giving you a greener home. Don’t turn on the lights until a certain time, during the brighter months. Installing dimmers on your light switches is another great way to reduce the amount of energy in use.

TIP! Have your frozen foods thawing in the refrigerator if you want to save energy. You will thaw your food in a safer manner and your fridge will not have to work hard with the frozen items inside.

Now that you know how to better use green energy in your home, you will soon reap all the benefits. Of course, green energy is good for the environment, too. If you take the time to utilize the tips provided here, you’ll be able to see how simple it is to be green.

Water heaters take up a lot of energy, so simply by lowering the temperature to around 120 degrees can save a lot of money. By doing this you could save up to 10 percent off your electric bill, while still having comfortable enough water to cook and shower with.

Community Development

Looking To Be Educated About Green Energy? Try These Tips!

March 25, 2017

When you’re coming up with a design for your outdoor lighting project, think about getting lamps that are solar powered. They don’t use any energy other than solar energy and they are cost effective. This will end up saving you a lot of energy. As an added benefit, you are spared the trouble of running an outdoor wiring system.

TIP! Solar water heaters are a great option and can significantly decrease the cost involved with heating all of the water in your home. Heating water with natural gas or electricity is not that efficient, but with solar energy, water takes the suns energy and keeps temperatures steady.

While it might seem difficult to incorporate green energy into your everyday life, it’s really not that hard. Even the most seemingly tentative step in the right direction can be very important from an environmental perspective. Read this article for tips on how to use green energy.

Installing solar panels is a great way to save electricity. However, before doing this, you need to consider a few things. One thing to factor into your considerations is the amount of sun your house actually gets over the year. If your home is mostly in the shade, or if you live in a location that receives little sun, your power gain may be minimal.

TIP! Try to use cold water for washing clothes. Almost 90% of the power you use to do laundry is simply used to heat the water.

Clean your furnace filters regularly and replace them at least one time a year. It is also a good idea to install filters on warm-air registers. Having filters prevents debris from building up inside your heating ducts, which would hinder the energy efficiency of your heating system.

You may be able to use solar water heaters, and they can warm your water efficiently. If your location does not get too cold, purchase a system that puts the water in a solar heater prior to coming to your home. However, it’s best to keep a traditional heater for times when you need a lot of heated water, or if the sun does not come out.

TIP! When a home has windows and doors stormed air flow is actually better in that household. Storm windows and doors prevent cold air drafts filtering into openings.

Whenever possible, you should use cold water to wash your clothes. If you use warm or hot water in your washing machine, almost 90% of your energy use goes towards heating the water. Using a quality detergent means it is unnecessary to use hot water. Be sure to always do a full load of clothes when you wash.

Dress more warmly to be green and reduce energy costs. Wearing a sweater can make you feel two to four degrees warmer, depending on the thickness of the sweater. You do not have to wear a small amount of clothing at home, so put on a sweater and increase your savings.

TIP! There are active and passive options for solar energy systems. Passive solar power doesn’t require the costly power-storage cells that active power does.

If you use fuel oil to heat your home, ask a professional if you can use biodiesel. Some systems do not need any modifications in order to use biodiesels. Biodiesel burns cleaner and more efficiently than conventional petroleum, reducing your home’s environmental impact during the winter.

If you don’t know about investing a lot into green energy in your home, hire pros, such as heating experts and plumbers, to give you an assessment of your current systems. You can be shown where your money is being lost through inefficient products, and some great estimates on upgrades or replacements.

TIP! A solar oven is an energy efficient way of baking. You can make one out of a box, wood, and some foil.

A good way to save money is to only turn on your dishwasher when you have a full load ready to go. Don’t run it with only two or three dishes inside. You’ll be shocked at the amount of dishes it can hold. Properly place your dishes in it so you can fit as many as possible.

Carpooling doesn’t have to be just for work. If you have kids, set up a carpool system in your neighborhood and trade off days with other parents. If you live close to family or friends, carpool for grocery shopping or other errands to save gas.

TIP! A great way to save energy is to switch your boiler. Many older boilers weren’t made to save energy, whereas the newer ones tend to be much more energy efficient.

When not using things, turn them off. Whenever you leave a room, get into the habit of turning off lights, televisions, and computers. When you can, plug your electronics into a power strip and when you are not using it, turn it off. Energy is still being used when something is in standby mode.

Replace your old appliances for newer ones that have an Energy Star rating. Energy Star ratings mean that your new appliances are technologically built to use less energy than previous models. For freezers and refrigerators the rating guarantees 20 percent less energy utilized, dishwashers 40 percent, and washing machines as much as 50 percent less energy used!

TIP! A simple way to locate appliances and products that are energy efficient is to see if they have an Energy Star logo. ENERGY STAR appliances meet guidelines set by the U.

Using solar energy is one good way to heat water. Consider a solar water heater. Indirect or direct circulation systems are both available. If your pipes freeze when it’s cold, the best option is the indirect system.

Put lights sensors with motion detectors in the rooms you use the most. These sensors will turn lights on and off automatically depending on if someone’s in the room, saving energy and money. Make sure outdoor lighting, such as above your garage, in also included.

TIP! Solar panels can be added to your home as an easy green energy source. While solar panels require a significant up-front investment, the cost savings you will enjoy over the course of several years can more than pay for it.

Going green doesn’t have to be complicated. You have plenty of options if you want to go green, as you’ve seen in this article. Make use of the information you have read here. It isn’t hard to go and get positive results from it.

A good energy-saver is to check frequently for broken seals on your refrigerator. A broken seal can cause your refrigerator to run unnecessarily, wasting energy and hurting your pocketbook at the same time. In order to see if you need to replace the seal, slide a small piece of paper inside the door, and be sure it doesn’t slide back out easily.

Community Development

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Green Energy Advice That Can Help You Out

February 11, 2017

Consider outdoor lighting, such as garden or patio lighting, that is solar-powered. These lamps are cheap and don’t require any power besides sun exposure. This will save you a ton of energy. It also means that you avoid having to go outside and wire up outdoor lights.

TIP! Lower the cost of heating your indoor water, pools and hot tubs by switching to solar water heating systems. Using natural gas and electricity is certainly the norm, but it’s not very energy efficient.

Caring for the Earth is the responsibility of every single one of us. There are many different types of green energy available, we just have to make use of them. What can you do to incorporate green energy in your life? Read this article for tips and techniques that can be incorporated into your lifestyle.

Instead of blasting the air conditioner to keep cool in summer, wear clothes made from naturally cooling fabrics. Cotton and linen wick away moisture from your skin so that you stay cooler. Lighter colored fabrics will help you stay cooler without needing to turn on the air conditioner.

TIP! The government has made grants for investing in renewable energy available to the public. Get in touch with your local government to find out what kind of programs exist in your area.

Consider installing solar powered lamps for outdoor lighting. These lamps aren’t costly and do not need additional power sources other than direct sun exposure. This does more than just save energy. It will also save you money by not having to wire the outdoor lights to your home.

Become a better energy consumer, and save electricity in your home by unplugging chargers for your electronic devices when you are not using them. Your charger still uses energy while it’s plugged in, even if it isn’t charging anything.

TIP! Speak to a technician to find out if your fuel oiled heating can be changed to an alternative fuel, such as biodiesel. Sometimes you can make the switch to some use of biodiesel fuels without having to purchase new parts or make costly modifications.

Changing your heating to solar water can reduce the price to heat your water, hot tub and pool. When you heat water with natural gas or electricity, it isn’t as efficient as using a solar alternative. While a few of the upgrades are costlier up front, they might be eligible for tax deductions or green energy tax credits.

During the summer months, hang your clothes outside instead of drying them in the 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 being dried in the drier. This will save you a ton on your utility bills, leaving you extra money to turn your air conditioning on instead.

Solar Panels

Using solar energy is one good way to heat water. Upgrade your hot water system to one that’s solar-powered. There are direct circulation systems and also direct ones. If frozen pipes are a concern where you live, the indirect option is probably better.

TIP! Make sure your refrigerator is properly maintained. Your fridge consumes a ton of energy, so make sure it’s in good shape.

You could easily have solar panels in your house to collect energy from the sun for you to use. However, before you do this, there are a few things that you need to take care of. The major thing you have to consider before going ahead with solar panels is the amount of sunlight your home gets over the course of a day. If you’re in a shady area, or a place that doesn’t have many sunny days, you won’t be able to gain as much power.

There are many renewable energy rebates offered by the government, so be aware of them. In some situations, your local utility company may provide rebates to offset some of the cost of such upgrades. Also look into tax deductions offered by the government that may apply to your green energy technology. You can lower the cost of putting green energy into your home by using these credits or rebates.

TIP! Don’t turn up the heat very high. If it’s chilly, put on warmer clothes.

Conserve energy by unplugging chargers when you aren’t using them. Even if you are not charging your laptop, cell phone or mp3 player, just having it plugged in uses energy.

Monitor your electricity consumption watt by watt. Use gadgets such as Kill-A-Watt or Watt Minder and figure out what your consumption is and where it is coming from. By plugging any device into this gadget, it will tell you how much energy it consumes. You can then use this information to find out how much the appliance really costs to run.

TIP! When you cook at home, use a microwave as much as you can. Ovens use much more energy than the microwave for cooking.

If you use fuel to heat your home, ask a professional about using biodiesel instead. There are many systems that can switch to biodiesel with needing significant modification. Biodiesel burns much cleaner, is more efficient than petroleum, and will lessen the impact your home has on the environment in wintertime.

When you exit a room, turn off the lights. Shutting off your lights when you leave a room is a simple act, but it will surprise you by the amount of energy it saves. An additional benefit is the money you save on your monthly power bill.

TIP! Appliances with the Energy Star certification bear a distinctive logo that makes them easy to identify. ENERGY STAR appliances have been approved by the U.

We need to be using more green forms of energy, now more than before. Nearly every power source has an impact on the environment, but the use of green energy minimizes that impact. Hopefully, this article has taught you what you need to know to put a lot more green in your life today.

Weatherizing your home is a great way to make it energy efficient. Sealing ducts, using energy-efficient windows, and adding insulation can reduce energy consumption. Also, with these changes, your monthly energy bill will be significantly reduced!

Community Development

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Simple And Advanced Green Energy Tips

January 24, 2017

Lower the cost of heating your indoor water, pools and hot tubs by switching to solar water heating systems. Solar water heaters use the sun’s energy to heat water resulting in energy savings. Even though these upgrades can involve considerable expense, some of them might qualify as green energy tax savings.

TIP! Reduce your energy consumption by unplugging anything that is not in use, especially battery chargers. Whether you are charging your device or not, chargers for laptops, mp3 players, cellphones and other electronics keep drawing electrical power as long as they stay plugged in.

Some homeowners may be uncertain how to convert their energy usage into more environmentally friendly forms. You might be confused by the many different choices, or even feel anxious about where to begin making your own transitions. Read these suggestions to discover the green energy options available for you.

When you can, wash your laundry in cold water. Almost 90% of the energy you use when you do laundry is due to heating water. As long as your detergent is good, cold water washing can be just as effective as warm water. It is also better to clean a full load, not smaller loads.

TIP! Instead of using fuel oil to heat your home, try to make a switch to biodiesel. Many systems can use biodiesels without any modification.

Shade your windows from the sun to prevent energy usage. Additionally, curtains and blinds can enhance the energy-saving effect you achieve. Since this will make your house cooler, you will use the air conditioner less. By blocking the sun’s rays, you will save energy and money.

Only using the dishwasher when it is full will save you money and energy. If you only have a couple of dishes, do not put them in the dishwasher and turn it on. If you do this, you’ll become used to filling the dishwasher with as many dishes as you can. Place the dishes in your dishwasher so you can fit in as many dishes as possible.

Solar Panels

Use electric heaters minimally in the winter. Use a fireplace in place of the heater and wear warm layers of clothing. An additional benefit to limiting the amount of electrical heaters is that it helps prevent your airways from becoming dry, resulting in better breathing.

TIP! 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.

Install solar panels and reap the benefits easily. But, you must think about some things prior to doing this. One major factor to consider with solar panels is the amount of sunlight your home receives. When in a shaded area, or city with less sunny days, there won’t be as many benefits from solar power.

Decide to receive your correspondence through email by opting out of receiving monthly statements. In other words, go paperless as much as possible. This kills two birds with one stone: you save energy and encourage businesses with whom you correspond to do so, as well. Finally, it will also save trees and reduce pollution a great deal in very little time.

TIP! Keep an eye on how many watts of electricity you use. Get a watt monitor such as the Watt Minder or the Kill-A-Watt to find out which appliances use too much energy.

Do you live on a farm? If you or someone you know does, you can rent a piece of your land to a company looking to put in a wind turbine. You will reap the benefits of this energy and the space needed is minimal.

Switching out your boiler for a newer, more efficient model can be a great way to save energy. Older boilers are not as energy efficient as new ones because people didn’t worry about the environment when they were made. Newer boilers produce far less carbon dioxide and reduce energy bills.

TIP! Use the microwave as much as you can to save energy while cooking. Each time you cook in the oven or stove, you tend to use lots of energy.

Check your furnace and air conditioning filters monthly. Clean or replace them as needed. Also, you may want your warm-air registers to have filters. This will help ensure debris doesn’t enter heating ducts, thereby reducing your efficiency.

Use a toilet designed to conserve water. Estimates show that about 50% of your home’s water is used by flushing toilets. Older models used 5 or more gallons of water to flush; today’s water saving models uses a little over 1.5 gallons per flush. That is a 70 percent water savings.

TIP! Although turning off lights or electrical equipment that is not being used seems like an obvious change to make, many people don’t remember to do this. This simple action can save anyone a lot of money on monthly bills.

Using solar energy is one good way to heat water. Buy a hot-water system that is solar-powered. There are systems available that circulate the heat both directly and indirectly. Indirect systems are the best if you have frozen pipes during the winter.

Investing more money up front in green energy appliances will pay off by saving you money over time. Green technologies are often a little more expensive than traditional items but the investment will pay off in the money that you save on decreased utilities. It can also have a beneficial impact on the environment in the long term.

Storm Windows

Use your refrigerator to thaw out food. This is a better way to thaw food, and the cold air that comes from your frozen foods will make your refrigerator cooler, thereby, cutting the energy consumption from your fridge.

TIP! Keep your water heater set to 120 degrees or less to use less energy. This can cut your power bill down by about 10 percent and still fulfill your hot water needs.

When a home has windows and doors stormed air flow is actually better in that household. Storm windows are good at cutting down on the cool air that tries to get in. Homes equipped with storm windows and doors can see an increase in energy efficiency of up to 45 percent.

Try using rainwater for items in your home, such as your toilet. This saves money on the water bill and is good for the environment, too. To collect large amounts of water, install rain barrels to collect water from your gutters. If you only need small amounts of water, just set out jars or buckets to collect water during a rainstorm.

TIP! You can start your journey towards living a more green life today, all it takes is some simple switching of the light bulbs in your house to get started. Just a few different projects you can do yourself will allow you to save money and energy in your home.

Use a tankless water heater instead of one that uses a tank. Tankless versions still need electricity or gas to heat water, but they are more effective in heating solely the water necessary instead of a huge tank of water constantly. Tankless heaters are available in models that supply the entire house or a single faucet with hot water.

Those looking to go green would be wise to invest in a front loading washing machine. These machines use much less water than top loading machines and are actually more efficient at cleaning your clothes. This saves energy, and consequentially, reduces the amount of money you spend each month.

TIP! Insist that your government pass laws that help encourage companies to use green energy. Speaking out for awareness is powerful, and it is not done enough.

Homes greatly vary in layout and geographical area. With all of the different variables, green energy technology will vary significantly for each area. Some tips are universal and work for everyone, and some are not. Use the advice given here to determine which technologies are best suited for your particular situation.

Choose environmentally-friendly lighting for your home. There are several alternatives to incandescent lighting which are much more eco-friendly. They don’t use as much energy as regular bulbs and give you a good amount of lighting in your house. Using these light bulbs is an easy, quick way to make your home greener.

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Green Energy Tips That Will Help The Environment

January 19, 2017

Cut down on air conditioning by wearing natural fibers in the summer. Cotton and similar fabrics will draw moisture from your skin, so you will stay cool. Lighter colored fabrics will help you stay cooler without needing to turn on the air conditioner.

TIP! Do you have a farm? If you do, then you probably own property. This might be an opportunity to rent a portion of that property to a company that will build a wind turbine on it.

You may be surprised at how many cheap and easy ways there are to make your home more energy efficient. The intent of this article is to provide you with different methods to use green energy at home and benefit from it.

On hot, summer days, hang your clothes outside. In addition to the energy savings, you clothes will smell incredible. Sun-drying clothes gives them a fresh smell. Also, using your dryer less will save you money in energy costs on your utility bills each month.

TIP! Using solar energy is one good way to heat water. There are many solar hot-water appliances to get the job done.

Cutting back on your daily electricity usage is a simple way to conserve energy. When you are not using certain appliances, unplug them until you are ready to use them again. Always turn off the television and lights when you are not using them. This is easy to do and saves a lot of energy.

A green tankless model of water heater can replace a regular tank styled water heater. Tankless water heaters still require power to heat the water, but they heat only the water that you want to use, rather than heating a tank of water that you’re not always using. There are various options when it comes to tankless water heaters, from heating enough water for your entire home to ones that only serve one faucet.

TIP! Try to learn about passive and active solar power. Active power can be stored for later use.

You can save electricity by unplugging chargers when they are not in use. Charging devices for several common types of electronics, including laptops, cell phones, and MP3 players all draw “phantom power” if you keep them plugged in while they are idle.

If you are not sure about making improvements to your home, hire professionals that can look over your systems and offer you ideas of what you can do to make your home more green. They can tell you the amount of money you will save, and quote the cost of a new system.

TIP! Don’t turn your heat up too far in the home, unless you need to. When the temperature drops, reach for a sweater instead of the thermostat.

If you have a farm try some energy saving alternatives. If you have a lot of land, energy companies will pay you for the right to set up a wind turbine on it. The turbine will provide free energy to you and close neighbors, and won’t take up much space.

Watch your watt usage. Use gadgets such as Kill-A-Watt or Watt Minder and figure out what your consumption is and where it is coming from. Using these devices with your appliances will tell you how much energy is used. This will show you the cost of your appliance.

TIP! If you, like many other people, wish to lead a greener life in order to help save our environment, there are many things you can start doing now. You might not be capable of spending lots of money in going green, but there are simple things that you could do such as cleaning your furnace’s filters each month or by setting your heat at sixty degrees when you are not at home.

Check your furnace and air conditioning filters monthly. Clean or replace them as needed. Warm-air registers should also have filters installed on them. Register filters will help prevent debris increasing efficiency.

If you really want to take a bit out of your fuel consumption, try making more extensive use of carpools, even to destinations other than the office. Set up carpooling with other parents to get the kids to soccer practice or band camp. You can even carpool to the supermarket with your neighbors.

TIP! Spending the extra money on buying green electronics and appliances pays off in the long run. Green tech products are a bit more pricey than conventional products, but you will save money long term through greater energy efficiency and lower utility bills.

Think about buying solar water heaters for heating your water. Using a solar water heater to warm your water with the energy of the sun works to save money and energy. However, you should still have a traditional water heater as backup for times when the sun won’t come out or if you’re going to be using a lot of hot water.

Use automatic motion or sound sensors on the lights in high-traffic rooms. These motion sensor lights will turn off lights in rooms that are not in use automatically, which in turn, will save you money with your energy bills. Use these sensors on outdoor garage lighting, as well.

TIP! Make your home greener by adding solar panels. This can be a costly option in the beginning but it will pay great economic and environmental dividends over time.

Batteries need to be situated closely to the cells in solar power systems. This can stop power loss in the cable. It can also reduce the chance of a cable shading a cell, and reducing its generation capability.

Heat each room separately to save money on heat. A floor heating system that allows individual room control is a great investment. This is particularly effective if you own a bigger home.

Storm Doors

Refrain from using bottled water. This water comes from a tap and is then filtered or has minerals put back into it, and the bottling process uses a ton of energy and pollutes the environment. If you think your community’s tap water is either unhealthy or tastes bad, buy a metal water bottle that can be used over and over again, and invest in a replaceable filter.

TIP! Collect rainwater to use to flush your toilet. This can save you some on the water bill and it’s good for the environment.

Storm doors and windows help control air flow into a home. They will help prevent cold air drafts in your home. Storm doors and windows can increase a home’s energy efficiency by up to 45%, which can have great impacts on utility bills.

Greener living can come in the form of large home improvements, or ones on the smaller scale like using energy-efficient light bulbs. There are several projects you can undertake yourself at home which will save money and reduce your energy usage. Pick one small project and pretty soon, you’ll be on the path towards being green!

TIP! A programmable thermostat will help your green energy effort in your home. Programmable thermostats regulate your home’s temperatures in your absence or while you’re sleeping so that you are not cooling or heating your home when it’s not necessary.

As this article has shown there are many ways to incorporate green energy into your life. Greening your home will save you money, help the environment and bring you some peace of mind!

Turn off lights when you’re not using them. Only use the lights when you really need them, and switch them off when exiting a room. Don’t leave lights like those on the porch on so as to save energy. This will reduce your energy usage.

Community Development

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Ways You Can Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

December 23, 2016

When you’re coming up with a design for your outdoor lighting project, think about getting lamps that are solar powered. This type of lamp is cost-effective and needs no power other than sunlight. This not only saves energy. You also don’t need to hang lights or wires outdoors.

TIP! One way to conserve energy is to make sure your windows aren’t exposed to direct sunlight. Both curtains and blinds will help keep the heat from the sun out of your home during the summer months.

What will green energy help you accomplish? It lowers utility bills and lets you help out the environment. Can you help our planet fight for survival? Keep reading for insight on how to make this positive step.

Are you the owner of a farm? If you do happen to own some farmland, try renting some of the land to a power company that specializes in wind energy solutions. Not only will the turbine use minimal land, it can provide you with free energy.

TIP! When installing solar panels, ensure that the energy-storing batteries are installed as close to the cells as possible. This can stop power loss in the cable.

Lower heating costs with solar heating systems for your pools or hot tubs. Using electricity or gas to heat water is not terribly efficient, but water heaters that use solar power maintain water temperatures using only the sun’s rays by way of solar panels. Although some of these systems cost more initially, many qualify for tax credits or deductions.

It is beneficial to maintain your refrigerator to keep it working efficiently. Your fridge consumes a ton of energy, so make sure it’s in good shape. Make sure you clean out any dust from around heating coils. It’s important to check that the seal is tight and clean around the refrigerator door.

TIP! Upgrading your water heater to a tankless style saves a lot of energy. Although they still use gas or electricity, they only heat on demand rather than maintaining an entire tank of hot water at all times.

A simple way to save energy is to close the curtains. Using curtains or blinds is a good way to block unwanted sunlight. These actions will reduce the air conditioning usage during the hot summer months, and yet your home will still remain cooler. The result is a significant energy savings and money in your pocket!

If you can afford it, invest in a laptop rather than using a desktop as they tend to use more energy. Laptops use only about one quarter of the power consumption of a full desktop, and is ideal for those that use their computer for surfing the Internet or word processing. An added bonus is the portability of a laptop- you can take it anywhere you go!

TIP! If you are unsure about making big green energy investments in your home, then hire professionals like a plumber or heating expert to come in and give you an overview of your existing systems. These professionals can point out inefficient appliances and systems, and they can also help you determine how much it might cost to upgrade them.

Wear natural fabrics instead of using the air conditioning in the summer. 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.

The next time you decorate your home or tree for the holiday season, use LED lights instead of standard light strands. Research has shown that in the United States alone, more than two billion kilowatt hours worth of power could be saved if everyone made this transition. The Department of Energy says that if everyone did this, the country would conserve more than 2 billion kilowatt power hours. That amount of power could run 200,000 homes for one full year. You can at least look forward to saving money on your energy bills!

TIP! Biofuels can be used to heat your home. Biofuels are usually composed of vegetable fats, animal fats, wood and oil.

There are grants that can help you invest in green energy. Check with the local government and see what programs are available to you. 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.

Switch your toilets to one of the newer, water-saving varieties. Toilets account for fifty percent of the water used in a home. Older toilets use around five gallons of water for every flush. This is about 3 times the amount of a green toilet.

TIP! A tankless water heater that heats water on-demand is a great energy saving device. Old fashioned heaters run constantly, heating the water even when not needed, therefore wasting energy.

If you use fuel oil to heat your home, ask a professional if you can use biodiesel. Depending on your system, you may be able to switch to biodiesel without having to make any modifications to your system. Biodiesel will burn cleaner than petroleum, which helps to protect the environment.

All energy efficient products will include the Energy Star designation and logo. Any products that have the ENERGY STAR logo are in compliance with the U.S. Department of Energy as well as the EPA. If you want to claim a green energy tax rebate, you’ll likely need to buy one of these products to qualify.

TIP! I

Learn about energy sources within your community. Find out what the cost would be to switch, how much it would cost to maintain, and whether your government has any legislation regarding its use. Think about switching to natural gas or well water as examples of simple changes.

One way to make your home use less energy is to weatherize it. Weatherizing your home by installing energy efficient windows and adding insulation will have a profound effect on your heating bills. You will also love the financial benefits that these simple changes can bring!

Green Energy

Look at the seals on your freezer and refrigerator often to save energy. A seal that’s broken will result in your fridge running more than it needs to. This is a waste of money and energy. To determine whether you need to replace your seal, place a thin sheet of paper in the door and see to it that it doesn’t slide out easily.

TIP! Don’t neglect your ceiling fans in the winter. If you make them rotate clockwise, they push air down which warms up the room.

Many consumers have considered green energy, but a large number never try to figure out how to take advantage of it or learn how to use it. Now that you have read this article, you should be more aware of the different ways you can include green energy technology at home as quickly as possible.

Reduce your water heater’s thermostat to 120 degrees, and you can go green while saving money on your utility bills. A four-person household could save up to 10% on gas or electric bills, and your hot water temperature will still be hot enough to be safe.

Community Development

Reduce Your Monthly Bills With These Green Energy Tips

December 14, 2016

Simply cutting back on the amount of electricity you use on a daily basis can save a lot of energy. When a certain appliance is not in use, unplug it. Turn off lights and the television when you are finished using them. This is an easy way to save cash as well.

TIP! Keep drapes drawn when you are not home. This keeps your house cool and your energy costs down when you’re not there.

After you reduce the energy that you use around your home, you will realize that it is much easier than you were lead to believe. Reduce the carbon footprint of your home and save money through big or small changes to your energy sources. Read this article for some ideas on how to do this.

Turn off appliances you aren’t using. When exiting rooms, turn off the computer, television or lights. Put all of your entertainment electronics on a power strip you can turn off, as this will stop appliances from going into a power draining stand-by mode.

TIP! Calculate potential energy generation during the planning of buying home solar systems. This will ensure that you are not caught short during winter, and you have excess during the summer.

When drawing up the landscaping plans for a garden path or patio, incorporate solar-powered lamps. Solar lamps are relatively inexpensive and can save you a great deal on wiring and electricity expenses. This not only reduces energy costs, Also, it will no longer be necessary to install wired outdoor lights.

The power-storing batteries of your solar system should be installed close to the cells. This way, you won’t lose power in the cable. It can also reduce the chance of a cable shading a cell, and reducing its generation capability.

TIP! Maintain your refrigerator. Your fridge consumes a ton of energy, so make sure it’s in good shape.

Try wearing natural fabrics in the summer as opposed to using the air conditioner. Natural materials like cotton repel moisture from your skin and allow it to stay cool. Light colors help you to feel cooler than darker or warmer colors.

Air flow is controlled best in homes with storm windows and doors. Storm doors and windows lessen the amount of cold air drafts that come in. Homes which have stormed windows and doors increase their energy efficiency by as much as 45% which also ends up costing you a lot less on your utility bills.

TIP! One very easy way to save money on your heating bills is to dress more warmly around the house during the winter months. Sweaters of varying thickness can offer more warmth, from two to four degrees depending on its weight.

The government has made grants for investing in renewable energy available to the public. Do some research with your local authorities and ascertain if they run any types of programs within your district. Who knows, you may qualify for low or no-cost wind or solar installation. Even if you don’t qualify for a grant, you can still use these items as a tax deduction.

Buy energy saving materials to help save energy in your home. Insulated double-pane windows and eco-friendly doors are especially effective for saving energy. By installing these products, your home is sealed tighter, and you use less energy to heat and cool your home.

TIP! If you are unsure about making big green energy investments in your home, then hire professionals like a plumber or heating expert to come in and give you an overview of your existing systems. They will let you know how much you can save by upgrading to more efficient appliances and systems, and also give you a good idea of how much it will cost.

Putting in solar panels in your home for solar energy is easy. Before undertaking this project however, there are a few things to consider. A major factor in choosing if you can use a solar system is the amount of sunlight your home receives on average. If your home is mostly in the shade, or if you live in a location that receives little sun, your power gain may be minimal.

Use a solar oven when baking. These can be made with readily available items like an old window, box, and piece of foil for reflection. Solar ovens can get hotter than 300 degrees, and doesn’t use any energy source besides the sun, so you are reducing your carbon footprint and saving money.

TIP! LED lights should be used during the next holiday season. There are many studies from the U.

Are you living on a farm? If you do, then you probably own property. This might be an opportunity to rent a portion of that property to a company that will build a wind turbine on it. You and the neighbors can benefit from this free installation and energy which won’t take up much space.

Use biofuels as a heat source. Biofuels consist of vegetable or animal fats, wood and oils. If you have a propane furnace a professional may be able to convert your furnace to a bio-fuel furnace. This could be anywhere up to 99% of biodiesel. Be sure you discuss any new fuel use in your home with a pro before starting.

TIP! The venerable habit of turning of unnecessary lights when leaving a room is still very effective. Developing this habit can save you a surprising amount of energy over the long term.

Do things like wash your clothes inside some cold water, if you can. Almost 90% of energy used for doing laundry is due to heating the water. If your detergent is decent, cold water will be as effective as hot when cleaning your laundry. Also, be as energy efficient as possible by only washing full loads of clothing.

A good green energy technology tip is to use a water heater that is on-demand. Traditional water heaters run constantly, wasting energy because they heat water when it isn’t needed. Water heaters that use on-demand, will heat water instantly when needed, which ends up saving you a lot in energy costs.

TIP! You might want to consider installing automatic light sensors that include motion detection in the rooms that have the most traffic. They will turn off lights when people aren’t in the room.

The aforementioned tips and techniques can help you incorporate green energy into your life. You will soon start saving a lot of money and help save the environment at the same time. Work slowly, and soon enough your home will become efficient and environmentally friendly.

Weatherizing your home will help your home be more energy efficient. Insulating your home and installing more efficient windows, doors, and heating and cooling systems will let you use less energy in your home. In addition to the energy saved you will also receive a lower energy bill.

Community Development

Why Ethanol Is Good For Providing A Renewable Fuel Source

December 6, 2016

One of the simplest ways to help save the environment is to use less energy. Unplug appliances that aren’t in use. Turn off lights, television sets and other small appliances when you are done using them. This is an easy, money-saving tip.

TIP! Some government money is available to assist consumers with switching to renewable energy. Speak with the government in your area about these programs.

Many people want to be green, but don’t know how to start. There are a lot of different solutions out there which can help consumers care for the environment such as, taking advantage of renewable and alternative energy sources. The following article illustrates many of these technologies and other ways to have a positive impact on the environment.

Check whether your furnace filters need to be replaced each month. Make sure that you actually replace these filters at least once each year. Warm-air registers should also have filters installed on them. These filters keep debris or toys from entering the duct-work, which could reduce the efficiency of your HVAC system.

TIP! Don’t run the dishwasher unless it’s full in order to save energy and money. It’s sacrilege to turn it on with just one or two dishes inside.

Changing your heating to solar water can reduce the price to heat your water, hot tub and pool. Solar water heaters use solar energy in an efficient way to heat your water. While some upgrades cost more initially, they can qualify you for deductions on your tax return for using green energy.

Dressing in warm attire can be a great way to cut energy costs while embracing green energy. Sweaters of varying thickness can offer more warmth, from two to four degrees depending on its weight. It’s not necessary to wear so little at home, so out on a sweatshirt and save some cash!

TIP! Rather than using an energy-hogging desktop computer, switch to a laptop. Laptops use about 75% less electricity than desktops, especially if the desktop is being used for the Internet or software programs.

Keeping your windows shaded to keep sunlight out of the house will greatly conserve energy. Use curtains or blinds as an alternative. Keeping your home cool in the summer means you will not be tempted to use the air conditioning as much. You will save both energy and money.

If you are uncertain with regard to expensive green energy updates for your home, have a heating expert or plumber provide an overview of the systems that you currently have in place. These professionals can explain how efficient your systems are, and how much it will probably cost to change or replace them.

TIP! In order to keep up with energy efficiency goals, compare all your energy bills to previous year to see how much progress you are making. Keeping energy usage at the forefront of your mind can motivate you to use less energy in the long run.

During the heat of summer, wear natural-fiber fabrics instead of turning on the air conditioner. Moisture-wicking athletic fabrics pull moisture away from your skin, creating a cooling sensation. If you wear lighter colors, you will also feel cooler than if you wore black or another dark color.

Try using a carpool if you want to reduce fuel consumption. Carpooling with other neighborhood parents to transport children back and forth to school not only saves you time, it sames you money. If you have family or friends close to you, you could also plan your grocery trips together and share the driving responsibilities.

TIP! Use a microwave as often as you can to save energy at home. Ovens and stoves use lots more energy to prepare food than microwaves.

Every year, replace your furnace’s filters, and every month, see if they require a cleaning. You should put filters in registers that are warm-air too. This will help keep debris from clogging up heating ducts and becoming inoperable.

An on-demand (tankless) water heater is very green. The old-fashioned water heaters run constantly, even running when not needed and that wastes energy. An on-demand water heater instantly heats water when necessary and saves energy.

TIP! All energy efficient products will include the Energy Star designation and logo. The ENERGY STAR seal indicates appliances that meet the guidelines which have been established by the U.

When determining the economical impact of a PV solar system, be sure to run a calculation using the hours of winter sunlight. Using this metric means you will meet your energy needs in the winter, while greatly exceeding them in the summer. If you’re using a net-usage plan, in the summer you’ll get cash back from your utility provider.

You can drastically reduce your heating bill using room-specific heat sources. Certain floor heating solutions allow you to set a different temperature for each room on a main board. If you live in a larger home, this is an effective solution.

Sweater Gives

In order to lessen the costs of green energy, consumers need to demand these newer technologies. It is your right to demand that your elected officials find new green technologies and help you use them. If you buy the green products you’ve asked for, companies will make more of them and the price on each product will go down. Manufacturers will also be encouraged to upgrade their production practices if they want to remain profitable.

TIP! You can take easy steps such as using energy saving light bulbs to start a green life. A few simple do it yourself projects can make a huge impact on how much energy and money you will save.

If you’d like to be more environmentally friendly and cut down on your energy costs, try wearing warmer clothing. A light sweater gives you 2 extra degrees of warmth, while a heavy sweater gives you 4 degrees. It’s not necessary to dress good at home, so grab a sweater to save money.

There are many jobs becoming available in green energy. Think about working in green energy if you’d like to make a career change. Learn more about jobs that deal with green energy, including technicians for solar panels or wind turbines.

TIP! Considering installing a dehumidifier in your home. Humid air typically feels warmer.

As stated above, green energy is a political topic that is getting more and more important since cheap oil is being phased out. If you posses the right information, it becomes a lot easier to include green energy in your life. Use the advice you just read to raise your awareness of green energy right now.

A washing machine that loads in the front is great for those wanting to live green. They do not need nearly as much water as top-loading machines use in order to clean your laundry much more efficiently. You can save money as well as using less energy if you get this kind of washer.

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Green Energy Tips That Can Save You A Bundle!

December 4, 2016

Shade your windows from the sun to prevent energy usage. Use curtains or blinds as an alternative. Since your home will become cooler, you will not have to use the air conditioning that much. By blocking the sun’s rays, you will save energy and money.

TIP! Government grants are available to help consumers invest in renewable energies. Do some research with your local authorities and ascertain if they run any types of programs within your district.

There are many ways to use green energy to help protect our environment. If you’re interested in green energy for your house, keep reading so you can learn how to get it done today.

Are you the owner of 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. You will benefit from the wind turbine’s free energy and it will take up minimal space.

TIP! Wash clothes with cold water. Almost 90% of energy used for doing laundry is due to heating the water.

Solar panels can be easily installed on your home and are used to collect energy from the sun for use in your home. There are several things that should be considered prior to installing solar panels. Think about how much sun your house typically gets. If you home is under a lot of shade, or in an area where you do not have a lot of sunny days, the power gained from your solar unit will not be very significant.

Only using the dishwasher when it is full will save you money and energy. Properly loading the dishwasher prior to running it will save both energy and money. If you do this, you’ll become used to filling the dishwasher with as many dishes as you can. Line up the same types of dishes, such as plates and cups so you are filling it completely.

TIP! When not using things, turn them off. Whenever you leave a room, get into the habit of turning off lights, televisions, and computers.

If you use fuel to heat your home, ask a professional about using biodiesel instead. Switching to biodiesel is often doable without system modification. The bonus of doing this is a cleaner burning fuel that is generally also more efficient, and you’ll lessen your impact on the environment also.

Air flow is better controlled in home that has stormed doors and windows installed. Storm doors and windows lessen the amount of cold air drafts that come in. Homes equipped with storm windows and doors can see an increase in energy efficiency of up to 45 percent.

TIP! Dressing in warm attire can be a great way to cut energy costs while embracing green energy. 2 degrees of warmth is added by wearing a light sweater, and 4 degrees with a heavy one.

When away from home, cover the windows. This helps to keep your house at a cooler temperature and lower the amount of energy used. South-facing windows get maximum sun. Dark curtains, roller or roman shades can cover windows well.

If you can afford it, invest in a laptop rather than using a desktop as they tend to use more energy. You can actually save up to 75% on your electrical usage, especially if you use your computer all the time. Additionally, you can carry a laptop with you, so it’s possible to use it wherever you want.

TIP! If you are unsure about making big green energy investments in your home, then hire professionals like a plumber or heating expert to come in and give you an overview of your existing systems. They will let you know how costly your appliances are, and they can give a detailed estimate on how much the costs will be to replace or upgrade your existing systems.

Consider installing a solar water heating system. 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. However, it’s best to keep a traditional heater for times when you need a lot of heated water, or if the sun does not come out.

Keep the heat as low as you can, unless you absolutely have to raise it. Wear sweatpants and a sweater if you are chilly. You waste a lot of energy if you put the heat on higher than necessary.

TIP! You can actually use biofuels to add heat for your home. These fuels are made up of animal or vegetable fats, oils and wood.

Using solar energy is one good way to heat water. Solar hot-water systems can reduce your energy bills significantly. Indirect or direct circulation systems are both available. The indirect system is best if you don’t want to worry about your pipes freezing in the winter.

A common habit that uses energy is not turning off lights, appliances, and other things when they aren’t in use. If someone did that every day, they would slash their energy bill a great deal. Get in the habit of turning things off. When leaving a room, turn off the lights. Shut down the computer monitor when you are finished with it.

Green Energy

Heat the rooms in your home separately. Get a system that heats the house from underneath the floors. This will let you monitor each area of your home, and control the temperature in each room. This is a wonderful solution for larger homes.

TIP! Make sure the freezer and fridge are located in a place that is cool. Try keeping these appliances away from any direct sunlight or hot vents which can raise their temperature and have them run longer than needed.

By starting now with green energy technology, it means greater savings for you and healthier planet in the future. It is easy to see that green energy methods are not overly difficult or costly. Take the information you have seen here and make a positive transition into a greener way of life.

Help reduce the cost of green energy by increasing the demand for it. As a consumer, demand technology that is environmentally friendly. As demand increases for green products, costs will begin to reduce. Manufacturers will have to use greener practices if they want to make money.

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Why You Should Consider Using Green Energy To Fuel Your Fleet If You Own A Business

December 1, 2016

Use a solar water heater to keep your pools, tubs and plumbing full of piping hot, but cheap, water. Heating water with natural gas or electricity is not that efficient, but with solar energy, water takes the suns energy and keeps temperatures steady. Many of these improvements will cost you a bit up front, but the cost savings and tax deductions will usually more than offset that cost.

TIP! Installing solar panels is a great way to save electricity. It is important, however, that you do your homework before making the leap.

Just thinking about major changes in the home to accommodate sources of greener energy is really overwhelming to most homeowners. You may not know where to start and whether or not you will see a decrease in your bills. Take time to read the following guidelines to determine the things that could greatly benefit your house.

Are you a farm owner? If so, you can rent a portion of it so wind turbines can be installed. Not only will the turbine use minimal land, it can provide you with free energy.

TIP! It is important to clean your furnace filter on a regular basis to be sure you are using as little energy as possible heating your home. Filters can also be installed in every warm-air register.

You can cut your energy consumption by a lot if you just cut back on the electricity you use. When you aren’t using an appliance, unplug it. Try turning off the TV and lights when they’re not in use. This simple little suggestion can save you money.

Consult a technician for more information about switching to biodiesel heating if your home currently uses oil for heating. Many systems allow a switch to biodiesel or biofuel with slight modifications. Biodiesel is cleaner and more efficient to burn than oil, and it has a better affect on the environment.

TIP! Heating your water with the power of the sun can be very efficient. If you live in an area where freezing temperatures are not a problem, you can purchase a system that heats water through a heater that is solar before it pumps it in your home.

The U.S. Government makes grant funds available as an incentive for consumers to start using green energy. Get in touch with your local government to find out what kind of programs exist 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.

Keep your refrigerator well maintained. Refrigerators use a large amount of electricity, and keeping it in good condition ensures this energy footprint is as low as it can be. Clean the dust off of the heating coils on a regular basis. Also, make sure that the seal around the door is clean and tight.

TIP! Don’t turn the thermostat up higher than needed in your home. If you feel a small chill, instead of turning up the heat, put on a sweatshirt or sweatpants.

Maybe you can use solar water heaters instead of traditional heating methods. If freezing temperatures are never a concern in your area, consider a system that circulates water through solar heaters before sending it into your house. It’s a good idea to use a supplemental water heater, however, if you cannot count on constant sunshine or if your hot water consumption is high.

Trade in your old major appliances for new ones with the Energy Star rating. This rating ensures that the appliance was built to use less energy than the other non Energy Star products. For freezers and refrigerators, the rating guarantees 20 percent less energy used, 40 percent for dishwashers, and at least 50 percent when it comes to washing machines.

TIP! An easy to get started in energy efficiency is to ask your electric company for help. Lots of utility companies have information on their websites about your energy consumption and tips you can implement to save cash.

Try drying your laundry outside in the sun whenever possible, rather than using a dryer. The sun can give clothing an incredible smell. They will have a much fresher smell than drying them with an appliance will provide. Additionally, you will have substantial savings on your utility bills every month that you dry clothes outside.

Install automatic light sensors with motion detection into your most highly trafficked rooms. The lights in these rooms are turned off by the sensors when not in use, resulting in energy and money savings. Install these sensors on your outdoor lighting as well for more savings.

TIP! If you are planning to make your home a greener one, consider adding solar panels to your roof. Solar panels are a large investment, but the savings you will enjoy by using solar energy will make up for the extra expenditure.

A home may have a vastly different layout or be in a different location. Because of these differences, not every home is well-suited for all types of green technology. Some things work well for most homes, and others don’t work at all. Use the tips that work best for your home.

You should always be using your ceiling fans, even in the winter. Warm air is pushed down when the fan is running in a clockwise rotation. This will save energy so that makes running the fans worth it.

Community Development