As with most people, you probably aren't thinking environmentally when you make use of many products around your house daily. However, every choice you make impacts the environment in some way. You can incorporate green energy habits into your life, which are good for the environment, without much a sacrifice. Read on to learn simple ways to make your home more energy efficient.
Start paying attention to your energy consumption. Unplug the charger for your iPod and XBox when they are not in use. Chargers used for cell phones, laptops, mp3 players and other electronic devices use power when they're plugged in, even if they aren't charging your device.
A solar water heater may be a viable option in your home. If you live in an area where freezing temperatures are unlikely, you can purchase systems that circulate water through solar heating systems before pumping it inside for use. However, you should still have a traditional water heater as backup for times when the sun won't come out or if you're going to be using a lot of hot water.
If you want to save money and energy, only run your dishwasher when it is completely full of dishes. It is wasteful to run the dishwasher with just a few items inside. You'll be surprised at how many dishes a dishwasher can load. Take care to line up your dishes, so you are able to put in as many as you can.
Batteries need to be situated closely to the cells in solar power systems. Power is less likely to be lost in cables this way. Additionally, it avoids problems with shading and capacity reduction.
Trade out your older, tank-style water heater for a tankless model that is more green. Although tankless heaters require electricity or gas to heat water, they only do this on the amount you need as opposed to storing it in a large tank that is kept hot all the time. You can get a tankless heater that will supply the whole house or one that supplies a single hot-water faucet.
If you want to live greener and have a greener home, avoid running electric heaters during the winter. A fireplace for the living area, wearing warmer clothing and purchasing some slippers are all greener ways of keeping the family warm. Cool air while sleeping is better for your breathing.
Research solar panels to see if an active or passive set-up is right for your needs. Active power is the power stored for later use and passive doesn't require pricey cells for storing power. Active power will require a large installation process and can cost a great deal more. Passive is just used via the sun for storing the thermal energy in the walls of your home to heat it.
Increase your energy efficiency by making use of the right products that are designed for a greener environment. Examples of these include windows, light bulbs, and appliances, all of which have been designed to run efficiently on reduced energy. This will reduce both your home's heating and cooling bills.
You may be someone who isn't thinking about environmental impacts all the time, and most likely you aren't alone. Now that you are aware of green energy and what it can do, you can make the necessary changes. Use the ideas that work for you, both small and large, and you'll help to make the planet environmentally safe for generations to come.
