Going green doesn't have to be hard on your wallet, nor be time-consuming. A few, small changes around the house can shave electricity bills and greatly benefit the environment. Read the article below to find out some of the best ways to get the most out of green energy.
Simply cutting back on the amount of electricity you use on a daily basis can save a lot of energy. Unplug your electrical appliances from outlets when not in use. Make sure you turn off lights and electronic appliances when you do not plan on using them. This is a simple tip that can help you save money, too.
Consider outdoor lighting, such as garden or patio lighting, that is solar-powered. These lamps require now power source, except the sun, and are generally inexpensive. This not only saves money. Another added convenience is that they do not require any wiring for you to enjoy outside lighting.
Solar water heaters are a great option and can significantly decrease the cost involved with heating all of the water in your home. Solar water heaters use the sun's energy to heat water resulting in energy savings. Certain upgrades, though expensive, qualify for specific tax deductions.
When you can, wash your laundry in cold water. Almost 90% of the power you use to do laundry is simply used to heat the water. Modern laundry detergent does just as well with cold water as hot water. Also, don't wash your clothes until you can completely fill the washer, as this saves energy over time.
Speak to a technician to find out if your fuel oiled heating can be changed to an alternative fuel, such as biodiesel. Many systems will take a switch to read more some level of biodiesel without any extra parts or modifications. Biodiesel fuel runs more efficiently and is cleaner for the environment, reducing your home's impact on the environment during winter months.
Find out about various energy sources that are available in your area. Check how much these utilities cost and any tax breaks or laws before making a decision. For example, you might see a savings if you switch from electricity to natural gas, or even switch from electricity to solar or wind power.
Turn off appliances if you are not using them. When you leave a room, take the time to turn off lights, the tv or the computer. A power strip is an easy way to turn off multiple appliances at once, so consider placing one in a conspicuous place where many electronics are located.
When you are installing a solar energy system, you want to be sure the batteries you will be using to store the solar power are situated as close to the solar cells as possible. This will prevent power from being lost in the cable. This can reduce chances of cables shading cells and reducing capabilities.
Whether or not you support the idea of global warming, using green energy can be a good idea for your home. By making a couple small changes like turning off lights when not needed, can really help save you lots of money on your electric bill.
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