Implementing a green lifestyle has many benefits for you and the environment you live in. You can make simple changes inside your household in order to go green, and make your home more energy efficient. This will greatly reduce your energy costs. Continue on for some helpful green energy tips at home.
The U.S. Government makes grant funds available as an incentive for consumers to start using green energy. Do some research with your local authorities and ascertain if they run any types of programs within your district. 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.
Storm Windows
Storm doors and storm windows help to better control air flow in the home. Storm windows are good at cutting down on the cool air that tries to get in. Energy efficiency increases by 45% in houses that contain stormed windows and doors, which could save you lots of money when it comes to electricity.
Learn the difference between passive and active solar power. Passive solar power doesn’t need expensive cells in order to store power, although active is stored for later use. Installing an active solar system requires more money and work, with panels and an entire system. Passive solar power is more basic and simply uses your home in its existing state as heat storage.
Save money and fuel by carpooling for errands as well as work and school. If you have children that you take to school or sporting activities, try setting up a carpool with other parents, and trade off the days you will drive. If you have family or friends close to you, try going to the grocery store together and taking turns driving.
While cooking, use a microwave if you can to save on energy. When cooking in the oven or on the stove, it tends to burn up a lot more energy. By using the microwave, you are cutting down the amount of energy you use a great deal.
If you are not in a room, do not keep the lights on. Developing this habit can save you a surprising amount of energy over the long term. Another benefit of turning lights off is that you can save money.
One of the simplest ways to be environmentally friendly is to install a water-saving toilet. Estimates show that 50% of water used in a home is to flush the toilet. Older toilets use 5 gallons per flush, whereas new models use less than 2 gallons.
Energy Star
You should find an Energy Star logo or seal right on the product, so be sure to look for it. The guidelines that ENERGY STAR appliances must meet are set by the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA as well. These products are also often the only ones eligible for tax rebates.
To increase your home’s energy efficiency, try weatherizing your home. By sealing ducts, adding insulation, and putting in more energy efficient windows, heaters, and cooling systems, you are reducing the amount of energy needed to run your home. Also, you will greatly reduce your energy bill.
Consider having a programmable thermostat installed in your house, in order to help significantly decrease your energy bills. These types of thermostats are already programmed, or preset, to adjust temperatures accordingly for colder and warmer months throughout the year. You are also able to program these thermostats to regulate day and night hours temperatures.
Using your lights in a responsible manner is a great way to save energy, giving you a greener home. Don’t turn on any of your lights before it gets dark, especially during months where you get a lot of sunlight. Try using dimmers to reduce the usage of lights.
Thaw foods that are frozen in the fridge. Not only is this a safer way to thaw out food, but the cold air released by the frozen food will help keep your refrigerator cool, reducing the total energy consumption that is required.
Greener living can start with the simple turn of your light bulbs while replacing them with new energy efficient ones and grow to become bigger home improvements. Small, DIY projects can substantially decrease your household energy consumption, and you will save money, too. Pick one small project and pretty soon, you’ll be on the path towards being green!
One of the most important green energy devices out there is the humble programmable thermostat. These thermostats control the heating and cooling of your home for greatest efficiency during the night and when you are away. The newer models can be programed with multiple start and stop times for various days during the week to conserve power.
Green Energy
Green energy businesses are currently booming with new jobs being created constantly. Whether you are thinking of a career change or advising your children, consider a career in this sector. Seek out information on new jobs relating to green energy, like a wind or solar technician.
Use a dehumidifier to help cool your home. Humid air will feel warmer! Try using a dehumidifier before resorting to an air conditioner. Air conditioners are one of the most power intensive appliances in the home. This may let you avoid using the air conditioner as frequently.
Ensure that you turn off any lights that you are not using. If you do not need the lights during the day time, keep them off. If you need them at night time, then make sure you switch them off after you exit a room. If you don’t need them, turn lights off, like those on your porch or in your cabinets. Doing this will lower your energy consumption.
As this article previously stated, being green doesn’t need to be time consuming or expensive. A few minor changes can help you save a lot of money on your bills. When attempting to go green, recall the tips in the article above and share them with others to increase the impact on the environment.