A lot of homeowners might be a little overwhelmed at the thought of adapting their house to make it greener. It is tough to understand where to start and how to improve the environment (and your life) the most. This article can help you learn how to make your home as green as it can be.
Lower heating costs with solar heating systems for your pools or hot tubs. Heating your water with natural gas or electricity is inefficient. However, solar water is inexpensive and more efficient. Although some of these systems cost more initially, many qualify for tax credits or deductions.
Keeping your windows shaded to keep sunlight out of the house will greatly conserve energy. Use curtains or blinds as an alternative. By using heavy window covering you house will remain cooler which will decrease the amount of air conditioning needed. You will save energy and money.
Become a better energy consumer, and save electricity in your home by unplugging chargers for your electronic devices when you are not using them. They may not be currently in use, but items such as cell phone chargers, laptops and mp3 players draw energy when left plugged in.
If you heat your home with fuel oil, inquire about switching over to biodiesel. Depending on your system, you may be able to switch to biodiesel without having to make any modifications to your system. Biodiesel burns more cleanly and will improve your carbon footprint.
Cover your windows when you are away from home. This will help save energy. This keeps the interior of your home cooler or warmer, depending on the season, and reduces your energy bill. Usually, windows that face south receive the most sunlight. Make sure that all the windows are covered with dark curtains, blinds, roman shades, or whatever shade you choose.
Research different sources of green energy available to your community. 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. Think about switching to natural gas or well water as examples of simple changes.
Turn off appliances you aren't using. Turn off lights, televisions and computers if you leave a room and have no plans to return. 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.
Save on water heating costs by using solar energy. Consider investing in a hot-water system that runs off of solar energy. Your choices include an indirect or direct circulation system. You're better off with an indirect system if you are worried about pipes freezing during the winter.
If you want to live greener and have a greener home, avoid running electric heaters during the winter. Using a fireplace and wearing warm clothing are good, energy-saving alternatives to using electric heaters. Keep in mind that it is actually better to breathe cool air while you sleep, since it keeps your airways from becoming dry.
Instead of buying that new desktop computer, purchase a laptop, as desktops use much more electricity. You can reduce your energy use by three-quarters if you use the internet a lot or do a lot of word processing. The laptop is also mobile, so you can take it with you everywhere.
Consider using a solar over when you wish to bake. You can make one with easy-to-find items like old windows, boxes, and aluminum foil to reflect light. These types of oven can become very hot with adequate sunlight, and cook some foods without any additional energy source.
Create written reminders of your goals regarding energy efficiency, and compare your utility bills to those of the previous year to determine whether you are making positive steps. By being conscious of how you use energy, you can help significantly reduce the amount of energy you consume. Your deliberate efforts to reduce your electricity or water consumption will have a significant impact on your ability to form habits out of turning off lights and shutting down appliances.
Every home is different. With all of the different variables, green energy technology will vary significantly for each area. Some work for all homes, while others work for only some. Use the tips in this article to determine which technologies will work for you.
