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Green energy can be used in many different ways, and it’s easier than you may think. The information gathered here will get you started on your journey toward using green energy and reaping its many benefits.
Solar Lamps
If you are thinking of designing your outdoor areas with lighting, consider using solar lamps instead of conventional power. The solar lamps are relatively inexpensive and will not need any additional power other than direct sunlight. This not only saves energy. It also means you do not to have string up those outdoor lights.
Install solar panels and reap the benefits easily. Before undertaking this project however, there are a few things to consider. You should definitely consider how much sun your home is exposed to. You can’t take as much advantage of solar energy if your house gets a lot of shade rather than sun.
When battery chargers and other electronics are not in use, unplug them. Mp3, cell phone, laptop, and various other device chargers draw power when they’re plugged in, no matter if it’s charging or not.
Speak to a technician to find out if your fuel oiled heating can be changed to an alternative fuel, such as biodiesel. Many heating systems are able to change over to some biodiesel use without needing modifications or extra parts. Biodiesel is great because it is more efficient and produces less pollution that standard oil, which will reduce your carbon footprint.
Cover your windows if you’re not going to be home. Heavy drapes help keep you home cool, resulting in energy savings. Try to close all your window coverings, but it is especially important to cover any south-facing windows. Dark curtains, roller or roman shades can cover windows well.
When planning the solar system used in the home, use winter sunshine hours to determine what potential energy generation will be. That way you won’t run out of energy during winter months, and you will have more than enough in the summer. However, you should also include any refunds you will get from your utility company for excess energy generated in summer!
Do maintenance on your fridge to save money. The refrigerator hogs energy, so it should work well. Clean the dust off of the heating coils on a regular basis. Check the door seal for dirt, debris and leaks.
Dressing warmly can help you reduce energy and go green. Wearing a sweater can make you feel two to four degrees warmer, depending on the thickness of the sweater. It is unnecessary to dress scantily at home, so pick up a sweater and save some money!
Instead of using a desktop computer, which sucks up more electricity, buy a laptop. These portable machines will reduce your electrical use by 75% while you do everyday tasks. You can also bring your computer anywhere if you have a laptop.
Try not to turn the heat up too high in your home, unless it is absolutely necessary for you to do so. If it’s a bit chilly, put sweatpants or a sweatshirt on. You waste a lot of energy if you put the heat on higher than necessary.
Investigate options for heating your oven through solar energy. You can make these with simple items, such as boxes, an old window, and some foil for reflection. These types of oven can become very hot with adequate sunlight, and cook some foods without any additional energy source.
Energy Star
Replace aging major appliances with ENERGY STAR appliances. An Energy Star appliance is built to use less energy than non-Energy Star appliances. Refrigerators and freezers that are Energy Star rated uses approximately twenty percent less energy. While dishwashers and washing machines can save up to fifty percent on energy bills.
Many people forget to turn off machines and lights that they aren’t using, even though it seems obvious. This simple action can save anyone a lot of money on monthly bills. Raise your consciousness about your electricity use in order to save electricity and money. Don’t leave appliances or lights on that nobody is using.
One of the easiest ways to get started with making your home more energy-efficient is to enlist the help of your electric company. Many of the utility companies have added website tools that help you review your current energy usage and look for ways to reduce it. Look into programs that include discounts or rebates for purchasing more efficient appliances, light bulbs, thermostats or other products.
Installing solar panels onto your roof is a great way to start making your home a greener one. Solar panels are a large investment, but the savings you will enjoy by using solar energy will make up for the extra expenditure. After the panels are installed, solar energy is pretty much free. You may even be able to sell some of this energy to your local electric company.
Checking seals in fridges and ovens are good ways to keep from wasting energy. Refrigerators may use more energy if the seals are broken. This will, of course, cost you more. You can test your seal easily with a piece of paper placed in the door. Be sure that it doesn’t slide out easily.
Place your fridge in a cool room to save energy. Don’t expose these appliances directly to sunlight or heat. If they absorb heat, their internal temperature will rise and they will need more energy to run.
You can take easy steps such as using energy saving light bulbs to start a green life. Completing a few simple projects that don’t require professional assistance can save you a ton of energy, not to mention money. Choose a small project to start with and you’ll be starting off on the right foot.
There is no reason you shouldn’t be able to use the tips from this article since they are so easy to do. Greening your home will save you money, help the environment and bring you some peace of mind!