Green energy is really becoming very popular with people today. Supporters of it claim that you can save money and the earth simultaneously. Is there truth in this? Continue on for some helpful green energy tips so you can see for yourself how beneficial it is.
Start paying attention to your energy consumption. Unplug the charger for your iPod and XBox when they are not in use. Mp3, cell phone, laptop, and various other device chargers draw power when they’re plugged in, no matter if it’s charging or not.
Purchase a solar water heater to warm up your water. If your location does not get too cold, purchase a system that puts the water in a solar heater prior to coming to your home. But, be sure to keep a regular water heater for a backup should the sun not come out or for times that you need large amounts of hot water.
When you are not using something, turn it off. When you leave a room, switch off the lights, computer or T.V. You can save a lot of money on energy by investing into a new power strip for all of your electronics and turning it off when those electronics aren’t in use.
If you clean your dishes using a dishwasher, refrain from doing a load until the dishwasher is completely full of dishes. The dishwasher uses the same energy when full that it uses when empty, but you’ll have to run it less often. When you do run the dishwasher, make sure to use the energy saving setting, which will allow your dishes to air-dry.
Solar Energy
Use solar energy to provide hot water cheaply. Build a hot-water system based on solar energy. You can select from direct circulation systems or indirect varieties. Indirect systems are the best option for those who have frozen pipes during the winter.
Get rid of your old tank-style water heater, and replace it with a modern tankless model. These still use gas and electricity to heat water, but they heat only what you use instead of continuously heating the whole tank. There are tankless heaters designed to not only provide one area with hot water, but also to heat entire houses.
If you can afford it, invest in a laptop rather than using a desktop as they tend to use more energy. 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. The laptop is also mobile, so you can take it with you everywhere.
Carpooling is a great way to get to many places; not only work. Set up carpooling with other parents to get the kids to soccer practice or band camp. Also, create a joint grocery shopping day with friends or family.
Purchasing a new boiler can be a good way to save energy. Older boilers are not as energy efficient as new ones because people didn’t worry about the environment when they were made. Newer boilers don’t produce as much carbon dioxide and use less energy, which saves on your energy costs and promotes better health.
Less Energy
Replace old appliances with those labeled Energy Star. An appliance that has Energy Star uses less energy than an appliance that doesn’t have it. Appliances like fridges and freezers can use up to 20% less energy, while washing machines can save up to 50%.
Use your microwave oven whenever you can instead of the stove and oven. Whenever you use your stove or oven, you use a significant amount of energy. If it is possible to microwave the item you are considering cooking, do so to reduce your energy consumption.
You will save money eventually if you buy green appliances. Oftentimes, green technologies are a bit more expensive than their traditional counterpart; however, investing in green electronics and appliances will pay off with savings from decreased energy consumption. It will also have a positive impact on the environment.
Consider changing out your old windows and replacing them with newer, more energy-efficient models. Some of the benefits you will see include lower electric bills, a more quiet home, less carbon dioxide and a smaller amount of window condensation.
Energy Star Logo
You should find an Energy Star logo or seal right on the product, so be sure to look for it. In order for appliance to be labeled with the ENERGY STAR logo, they must meet certain guidelines established by the United States Department of Energy as well as the EPA. Some of these products have tax rebates from the government for being green appliances.
Use automatic motion or sound sensors on the lights in high-traffic rooms. These lights only go off when someone is the room, so you will save money and energy when no one is in the room. Include sensors on your outdoor lighting and lights in the garage, as well.
Use weatherizing techniques to improve the energy efficiency rating of your home. You can greatly reduce your home’s energy by sealing ducts, installing energy efficient windows, and adding insulation. You will also enjoy a decreased energy bill.
Get your home greener by being more responsible with how much light you are using. Don’t turn on any of your lights before it gets dark, especially during months where you get a lot of sunlight. Installing dimmers on your light switches is another great way to reduce the amount of energy in use.
Green Energy
After reading the article, what are you thoughts about green energy? Is green energy technology something that is helpful to you? Keep these tips in mind to improve your life. Implement these guidelines today and determine if green energy will work well for you.