Consider outdoor lighting, such as garden or patio lighting, that is solar-powered. These inexpensive lamps require no external power source and can run entirely on solar power. This not only saves energy. It also means you don’t need hard wired outdoor lights.
TIP! Every year, replace your furnace’s filters, and every month, see if they require a cleaning. Warm-air registers should also have filters installed on them.
Beginning to use green energy does not have to be difficult. You might be confused by the many different choices, or even feel anxious about where to begin making your own transitions. For solutions to the problems potentially posed by going green with your household energy use, check out the following helpful tips.
Biodiesel fuel might be an option if your current heat source is fuel oil. Many systems can use biodiesels without any 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.
TIP! Cover your windows when no one is at home. This cools the house and cuts energy costs.
If you’re designing any kind of outdoor lighting, you may want to think about installing solar-powered lamps. They are not only affordable, but they do not have to be hooked up to any power source, needing only good access to sunlight. This not only reduces energy costs, It also means you don’t need to wire your outdoor lights.
Research the different energy sources available in your community. Compare costs and look up regulations on green energy and tax incentives. You may find that natural gas will be better for your home than electric, or that well water is an available alternative to city water.
TIP! During the summer time, you should consider drying your clothes using the sun as opposed to using the dryer. The sun will dry your clothing for free and the summer breeze will leave it smelling amazing.
In order to conserve energy, try keeping the windows shaded from the sunlight. Additionally, curtains and blinds can enhance the energy-saving effect you achieve. Less heat will be allowed in, and your summer air conditioner costs will be greatly reduced with just these two simply steps The result is a significant energy savings and money in your pocket!
Get rid of your old tank-style water heater, and replace it with a modern tankless model. Although they still use gas or electricity, they only heat on demand rather than maintaining an entire tank of hot water at all times. Tankless water heaters are available to purchase in many different sizes; you can heat water for your whole house, or just a single faucet.
TIP! If you are really committed to going green, one way to do so is to limit how often you use your electric heater in winter. You can wear warmer clothing instead, and warm up your home with your fireplace.
Rather than using an air conditioner during the summer, wear clothes that are natural. Natural materials like cotton repel moisture from your skin and allow it to stay cool. Also, choose lighter colors. Darker colors absorb heat, which makes you feel warmer, meaning you’ll set your thermostat lower.
An easy way to cut energy costs and go green is to dress warm. A thin sweater will provide you with two degrees of additional heat, while a heavier item will add four. Since it is pointless to wear very little clothing while indoors, you might as well wear a sweater.
Solar Panels
Don’t turn up the heat very high. If you feel a small chill, instead of turning up the heat, put on a sweatshirt or sweatpants. When the heat is turned up to a high level, a lot of unnecessary energy is used.
TIP! Make sure you remind yourself to be on top of being energy efficient and check into your energy bills on a monthly and annual basis to see what the difference is. Just thinking more about your energy usage will help you to change habits that lead you to over-use energy.
Install solar panels and reap the benefits easily. Before you do this though, you need to think about a few things first. One major factor to consider with solar panels is the amount of sunlight your home receives. You can’t take as much advantage of solar energy if your house gets a lot of shade rather than sun.
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. Refrigerators and freezers use 20% less energy and dishwashers use 40% less. Energy Star rated washing machines save at least 50% of the energy used by the older styles and also save a lot of water.
TIP! While cooking, use a microwave if you can to save on energy. Heating up your oven will use far more energy than a quick trip through the microwave.
Biodiesel fuel might be an option if your current heat source is fuel oil. Many heating systems are able to change over to some biodiesel use without needing modifications or extra parts. Biodiesel is a better fuel because it has a cleaner burn and is more efficient.
An old, yet good tip, for those looking to save on energy is to turn off your lights whenever you leave a room. Turning off lights habitually will add up to great energy savings over time. In addition, you will save money on your utility bill.
TIP! Water-saving toilets can get you started on a greener lifestyle. Some estimates report that about half of the water consumption in a home is from the toilet.
When you are away from home, use window coverings. This cools the house and cuts energy costs. Typically windows on the southern side of the home receive the most sun. Try to cover the windows using coverings like roman shades, roller shades, and dark curtains.
You should find an Energy Star logo or seal right on the product, so be sure to look for it. Appliances that have been ENERGY STAR rated follow energy consumption guidelines promulgated by the U.S. Department of Energy as well as the EPA. These products are also often the only ones eligible for tax rebates.
TIP! Use automatic light sensors that have motion detectors for your busiest rooms. These sensors will automatically turn off the lights of rooms that are currently not in use, saving on energy and, in turn, a lot of money! Use these sensors on outdoor garage lighting, as well.
Each home is laid out differently. With these different characteristics, the green energy technologies that will work may vary, significantly. Some work for all homes, while others work for only some. Find the tips that will work for your situation and then, utilize them in your home.
Your journey toward greener living can begin with large home improvements or something as simple as switching to more energy-efficient light bulbs. You will be amazed at the huge impact that small changes can make on the environment and your bottom line. Pick a mini-project and get started right away.
