Caring for our planet is important, which is why using green energy is crucial. There are a variety of methods you can use to be environmentally friendly. So now, you may be wondering what you can do to lead a green life? Reading this article will help your learn how.
Outdoors, solar-powered lights are very convenient for patios and garden paths. These lamps are inexpensive and do not require any kind of power source other than exposure to the sun. This doesn’t merely save energy. It will also mean you can avoid installing underground wiring.
Use solar heating systems to heat all your water in order to save money. Heating water with electricity or natural gas is not very efficient, but solar water heaters harness energy from the sun to keep water at a steady temperature. While a few of the upgrades are costlier up front, they might be eligible for tax deductions or green energy tax credits.
Use window treatments to shade the inside of your home when you aren’t home. This allows your home to be kept cool when you aren’t there, and in addition, it helps keep energy costs down. Windows that face south tend to get more sun due to their orientation. Window coverings such as roller shades, roman shades or dark curtains can be used on all windows.
Research different types of energy sources which may be available in your area. 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. You might find that you could save money by switching from an electric furnace to a natural gas one, for instance, or from using municipal water to your own well water.
During the hot summer months, hang clothes outside rather than tossing them in the dryer. The sun can give clothing an incredible smell. They will smell better than anything coming out of a dryer. You can save a significant amount on your utility bills, too, because the dryer uses energy and heats up the air, causing the air conditioner to run more often.
A good benchmark to use when determining how much power a new solar system is likely to generate is the number of hours of sunlight in the winter. This will prevent any unpleasant surprises during the winter months, while leaving you safely ahead of your needs during the summer. However, you should also include any refunds you will get from your utility company for excess energy generated in summer!
You can get rid of your old, tank style water heater and switch it out with a new, greener, tankless one. 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.
Perhaps you are intimidated by making an large, green energy investment. Seeking the input of a professional, such as a heating/cooling specialist or plumber can educate you on options. 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.
Energy Sources
It is becoming abundantly clear that now is the time to transform our energy sources from old, wasteful and pollutant to greener and more economical ways. It’s true that no source of energy is 100% “clean,” but alternative energy sources are far more clean that what we are using now. Now that you have some tips to work with, you know how to be a little greener.
