Be Environmentally Friendly With These Green Energy Tips
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Filed under Green Energy
Because there is an overwhelming amount of information on green energy on the Internet, finding useful, reliable, pertinent information can be a challenge. Read on to learn the basics of green energy technologies and which ones will work for you in your home.
Wear natural fabrics instead of using the air conditioning in the summer. Fabrics such as cotton draw moisture from the skin, which allows you to stay much cooler. Wear lighter colors since warmer ones can make you warm and cause you to rely on the A/C.
If you heat your home with fuel, talk to a technician about using biodiesel. You might even find that you can switch your system to partial biodiesel without having to purchase parts or hire a contractor to perform modifications. Bio-diesel fuels burn more efficiently and cleaner than conventional petroleum- based fuel oil.
Cover your windows if you’re not going to be home. This cools the house and cuts energy costs. Usually, windows that face south receive the most sunlight. Window coverings such as roller shades, roman shades or dark curtains can be used on all windows.
Think about getting solar heaters to heat up your water at home. 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. Make sure you own traditional water heaters for backup during cold days.
Research the different energy sources available in your community. Determine which energy source is cheapest for your home. Don’t forget to account for any government incentives that might be in effect. You might find savings by switching from electric to natural gas for heating, or to well water from city water.
Turn off appliances if you are not using them. When you leave a room, switch off the lights, computer or T.V. A power strip should be used for electronics and can be easily turned off when not needed, since the standby mode is still utilizing power.
When using a dishwasher to do the dishes, don’t let it run unless it’s all the way full. Regardless of how many dishes are inside, equal amounts of water and energy are used. When running the dishwasher, turn on the setting for energy conservation.
Take the time to properly maintain your refrigerator. Since the refrigerator is an appliance that consumes a lot of energy, it is important to keep it in top-working order. Be sure that you’re regularly cleaning the dust that builds up near the heating coils. In addition to that, make the seal near the door clean and tight.
One way to save energy is to limit the use of electrical heaters in the winter. You can wear warmer clothing instead, and warm up your home with your fireplace. Keep in mind that it is actually better to breathe cool air while you sleep, since it keeps your airways from becoming dry.
Hiring professionals, such as a heating professional or plumber, to come to your home can lay any doubts you have about green energy to rest. They should be able to inform you about extra expenses you are paying for inefficient appliances, as well as the amount it would cost to upgrade to newer, energy-efficient models.
Tackling the wealth of information available may not seem pleasant; however, the tips you have seen here may make for a pleasant start. These ideas boast affordable and simple ways to help transform your home and life into a more green and energy efficient environment. The environment and your family will be thankful you did!