Going green does not have to be costly, nor take too much of your time. There are numerous changes that you can make to help the environment. This article teaches you how to improve your home by making it more green.
Make your home more energy efficient by unplugging your unused electronic devices. Many chargers for various electronics continue to draw electricity even if they are not plugged into a device. The energy usage is not as high, but it wastes electricity and adds up to a considerable amount over time.
Replace and clean furnace filters yearly, and check them monthly. You should also install filters on any warm-air registers included with your furnace. Debris (and small toys) will not reach the heating ducts to clog the main filter.
Heating your water with the power of the sun can be very efficient. If you’re in an area that doesn’t have to worry about freezing temperatures, you can get a system that will circulate the water through a solar heater before pumping it into your home. Yet make sure that you also have a regular water heater as well just in case the sun decides to not come out for awhile.
When not being used, turn things off. When you exit a room, be sure that everything has been fully turned off. A power strip is an easy way to turn off multiple appliances at once, so consider placing one in a conspicuous place where many electronics are located.
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. An even better benefit is that you can sell your energy back to the grid in the sunniest of times!
When you are preparing to install a solar energy system, ensure that the power storing batteries are located nearby to the cells. This can stop power loss in the cable. It also lessens any chance the cable will shade the cells, which reduces their generation capability.
Use a model which is tankless and more green instead of a tank style heater. Even though you still need electricity or gas in order to heat water with these tanks, they use only the water you need instead of always keeping your whole tank heated. There are models available that provide on-demand hot water for a whole house or just one faucet.
If green energy is a concept which you embrace, minimize the use of electrical heaters during the winter months. A fireplace for the living area, wearing warmer clothing and purchasing some slippers are all greener ways of keeping the family warm. Keep in mind that cooler air is better for your breathing while you sleep as it prevents your airways from becoming dry.
Increase your energy efficiency by making use of the right products that are designed for a greener environment. Ecologically friendly windows and doors can minimize the energy you need to operate your home efficiently. Using these products is a great way to save money on heating and cooling.
Desktop computers are very power hungry. Try using a laptop as an alternative. 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. Additionally, you can carry a laptop with you, so it’s possible to use it wherever you want.
Try to communicate more via email. Basically, this means using as little paper as possible. Not only will the business save on the cost of paper, but you will be saving energy from the production of that paper as well. It is also beneficial to our environment.
One way to help reduce energy consumption is to develop an energy savings plan. You should compare your goals with your utility bills to ensure you are staying on track. The more aware you are of using energy, the easier it is to reduce your energy use. It can be hard at first, but once you make conserving energy a routine it will become second nature to you, and will pay off greatly on your energy bills.
Carpooling is a great way to get to many places; not only work. If you have children, you can have a neighborhood carpool and switch with the other parents every day. If you live near another family and friends, then synchronize your grocery shopping days and take turns being the driver.
Energy Star
Replace aging major appliances with ENERGY STAR appliances. Any Energy Star rated appliance guarantees better energy efficiency than an older one without the rating. Fridges and freezers with the rating use at least 20% less energy, dishwashers use 40% less, and washing machines use at least half the energy of non-rated models.
Consider bamboo items when making a wood purchase. Bamboo is a product that grass-based and a lot stronger than many of the commercially available wood products on the market. It grows fast and is made for several products like furniture or flooring. This saves energy on the recycling and production end of manufacturing products.
Sealing your home from the weather will help conserve energy. If you seal ducts, install energy saving windows and add insulation, you will be able to cut down on the energy your home uses. You may also see real savings on your energy bill!
Even people who don’t believe in global warming can see real benefits from green energy. A lot of money can be saved on electric bills if you make some changes.