Researching renewable energy sources can be tricky as a ton of information is available, and it is difficult to know which sources you can rely on. Here are the basics so that you can start using more green energy yourself.
Lower the cost of heating your indoor water, pools and hot tubs by switching to solar water heating systems. Solar water heaters use solar energy in an efficient way to heat your water. Many of these improvements will cost you a bit up front, but the cost savings and tax deductions will usually more than offset that cost.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are easy to install and can collect sunlight for energy. Before you do this, you should research just a few things first. The major thing you have to consider before going ahead with solar panels is the amount of sunlight your home gets over the course of a day. If you live in an area that gets few sunny days, or your property is full of shade trees and tall bushes, you will have trouble gaining enough solar power for your needs.
When battery chargers and other electronics are not in use, unplug them. Anytime a charger is plugged in, it is using a bit of energy.
When you can, wash your laundry in cold water. Having heated water in your washer can use up to nine-tenths of the energy required to run a washing machine. Provided you are using the right laundry detergent, you will not see a cleanliness difference by washing in cold water. Don’t forget to only wash clothes when you have a full load s you are as efficient with your energy as possible!
If you aren’t home, use a window covering. Your house will stay cool and you won’t use as much energy this way. Generally, your home’s south-facing walls and windows receive the most sun exposure. Therefore, it is especially important to use heavy window coverings on these windows.
Turn you appliances off when you are not using them. When you leave a room, take the time to turn off lights, the tv or the computer. Try using a power strip so you can turn off all of your electronics at once, instead of letting power be wasted in standby mode.
Wait until your dishwasher’s full before running it. The energy used is the same whether you are washing a small load of dishes, or one that is larger. Also ensure that it is set to air-dry if you are aiming to reduce your energy consumption.
Use a model which is tankless and more green instead of a tank style heater. Even though these green versions of water heaters still use electricity or gas, they only need it to warm the water you’re using instead of heating it at all times. You can purchase tankless heaters that supply the whole house, or ones that supply just one faucet.
Electric heaters should only be used when necessary in order to be more green. You can invest in warmer clothes and take advantage of your fireplace or pellet stove in order to heat your living areas. In addition, this is beneficial to your health, as cooler air keeps your airways from getting too dry, allowing you to breathe easier while sleeping.
Applying these ideas is a lot easier than sorting through all the tips available online. Each of these simple changes are both easy and affordable, allowing you to start using greener energy right away. Not only will your family appreciate your efforts, but the planet will, as well.
Remember that everyone has difficulty knowing how to get started sometimes. There is a lot of additional information out there. You will get off to a great start with the basic information presented here. These tricks and techniques are very beneficial for your success.
