Everyone wants to be “green”, even if Kermit says it isn’t easy. An excellent first step for the homeowner is to use green energy within their home, but most people don’t know where to start. This article will guide you through some strategies which will help you to green your home in no time!
If your home has a pool or hot tub, look into a solar water heating system. Installing a solar water heating system costs about the same as a conventional system, but operating costs for the system will be much lower. Repair costs for solar heating systems are often lower as well.
The government has grants available to those who are willing to invest in alternative renewable energies. Contact your city or county government and ask about energy conservation programs available in your area. You may qualify to have wind or solar power installed at no cost to you. At a minimum they may allow you to deduct the charges from your taxes.
Don’t leave appliances that aren’t in use, on. Any rooms in the home that are vacant should not have any electronics or lights left on. Try using a power strip so you can turn off all of your electronics at once, instead of letting power be wasted in standby mode.
A wind turbine could help you cut down your electric bill by as much as 90%. Before you invest in this type of equipment, find out if the wind is strong enough to produce the amount of energy you need and get a professional to help you choose the right size of turbine.
Start using batteries that have been recycled or else use rechargeable batteries. Disposable batteries are full of toxins and actually take about half of the energy they put off, in order to produce. If you are using disposable batteries, be sure to recycle them. Rechargeable batteries, however, can be used over and over again.
If you are in favor of using green energy to save money as well as to help the environment, try using an energy system that omits fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas, as these tend to emit carbon dioxide. Instead, use a renewable energy system such as solar, wind or hydro-power.
Get your whole family thinking about green energy by stocking organic, recycled or eco-friendly products whenever possible. Ask your kids to identify such products on the shelves at the store and explain why those products are better for your family, your home and your environment. You can also segue such conversations into other eco-friendly practices like shutting off the water while brushing your teeth or turning off lights when not in a room.
Share rides with others in your neighborhood to greatly reduce your fuel usage. Kids can also form carpools to school by alternating parents days. If you live near another family and friends, then synchronize your grocery shopping days and take turns being the driver.
Power strips are a great way not only to protect your expensive appliances but also to easily lower your energy usage. Instead of having to switch off or unplug every individual appliance when they are not in use, you can simply switch off all power strips at night or when you leave your home.
A good tip for saving energy is to change your boiler. New boilers are more energy efficient than old ones. Not only do the newer ones emit less carbon dioxide and are healthier, they will greatly lower your energy bill costs as well.
Many homeowners overlook wasted energy in the garage when they are trying to conserve. Heat in an uninsulated garage can literally go out the windows and doors. If you are interested in green energy, start by making sure your garage is properly insulated. Be sure to check with your county about building codes before you start.
A great tip to help save energy is to utilize daylight in your house. Rather than turning on your lights during the day, open up your shades, and let the sun naturally light up your home. You may even want to consider installing a skylight to really help illuminate your home.
To make you home greener, install a programmable thermostat. It can save you a significant sum of money your monthly energy bills. With their pre-programmed settings, these thermostats are capable of regulating the temperature within your home during both the winter and summer months. They can also keep regular temperatures during the day and night.
An excellent green energy tip is to purchase ENERGY STAR rated CFLs. Not only will they save you money over the long run. They produce about 70% less heat than a standard light bulb, are safer to use, and will lower home cooling costs. ENERGY STAR rated light bulbs also transmit light more effectively and evenly than the standard bulb.
Harness wind power in your home. Wind power is probably one of the cleanest sources that we have available now, and using it just might cut your electric bill down by up to 90%. You will have to make sure that your home is zoned correctly and then invest in a wind-turbine unit in order to take advantage of this technology.
You can make big changes for a greener life as simply as opting for green light bulbs for your home. When you take the time out to do a few projects around the house yourself to live in a more green environment you can save a lot of money. Start with one small project and you’ll be on the path to a greener life!
Buy a dehumidifier. The more humid the air, the warmer it feels. Run a dehumidifier before turning on your air conditioner. By using the dehumidifier first, you’ll be able to use the air conditioner less often and save on your electric bills.
While it will take some time, effort and dedication to put what you’ve learned here into effect in your home, the rewards will be worth every second. Lowered bills, less reliance on the grid and a warm, fuzzy feeling in your heart are just some of the benefits you’ll enjoy, so get started today!