Do Your Part By Checking Out These Green Energy Tips!
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Filed under Green Energy
Reducing the amount of energy your home uses from the electricity company might be a lot easier than you think. A couple of small changes (or big ones) and both your environmental footprint and your energy budget will decrease. For some simple ideas, continue reading.
There are grants that can help you invest in green energy. Check with the local government and find out about any possible programs you may be eligible for. You might qualify for a solar or wind installation at no cost, or at least be able to deduct your expenses from your taxes.
Do you have a large plot of land? Consider renting out a small space where a power company can place a wind turbine. You will reap the benefits of this energy and the space needed is minimal.
Replace and clean furnace filters yearly, and check them monthly. Also, you may want your warm-air registers to have filters. This will help keep debris or dirt from clogging vents and reducing their overall efficiency.
Every community offers different energy sources, so research the ones that are available to you. Investigate costs for using those utilities, and be aware of any legislation about energy costs. For example, it might be wise to use natural gas instead of electric heat or water from the well rather than city water.
If you are considering the installation of home solar energy, make sure you are aware of how much energy you will receive during the winter months. This can prevent any nasty surprises during winter, and it can leave you ahead in the summer. If you generate excess energy during the summer, with the right plan, your utility company will send you a check!
Solar Systems
Learn about the differences between passive and active solar power. Passive solar systems are less expensive but cannot store energy like active solar systems do. Active solar power requires a lot of involvement in the form of installation, mechanics, and power cells. Passive energy is about using windows and insulation to keep your home warm and well-lit.
A good way to save on your electric bill is to switch to a laptop computer rather than using a desktop. By doing this you could be saving around 75% off your electric bill, especially if you constantly use the Internet or type up papers. The laptop is also mobile, so you can take it with you everywhere.
Seek out local and federal rebates offered for making energy upgrades to your home. In some cases, the local utility company will offer rebates for the cost of the upgrades. The federal government, or your city or state government, may also offer tax breaks. You’ll find that these discounts can effectively reduce the price of adding green energy alternatives into your home.
When you put up lights during the holidays, avoid the normal light strands and hang LED lights instead. The use of LED lights reduces the use of electricity according to research. The Energy Department showed that more than two billion kh of power could be saved if everyone made the switch. That amount of electricity could power 200,000 homes for an entire year. You could reduce the amount of your own utility bill as well.
Take the ideas you get from this guide and look for ways to incorporate these tips into your lifestyle. You will save much on energy costs, and you will also reduce your carbon footprint on the environment. Your home can be very green if you make a few changes at a time.