It's simple to reduce the amount of energy your home is using, or make it greener. If you make some small changes, and even a big one or two, you can lower your environmental impact and save a lot of money. This article will show you how to get started with ways to conserve energy.
Eventually, it will pay off to get green appliances and electronics. Usually, technologies that are green cost more than regular technologies, but in the long run this will pay off in the form of reduced utility costs. A bonus is that you will be helping to protect the environment.
A solar oven can be an easy and free way to bake. You can make one with easy-to-find items like old windows, boxes, and aluminium foil to reflect light. Solar ovens can get hotter than 300 degrees, and doesn't use any energy source besides the sun, so you are reducing your carbon footprint and saving money.
If you can, try switching out your old windows for ones that are more energy-efficient. You'll not only see a reduction in your energy bill, but you will also reduce carbon dioxide, condensation on the inside of your windows and a reduction of outside noise in your home.
One smart way to save money and be green is to keep your water heater temperature at 120 degrees maximum. Contrary to popular belief, this temperature is both safe and comfortable, and more importantly, it can reduce your electricity bill by up to 10%.
Use the oven light while cooking to save energy. You can avoid opening the door to check your food if you can see it from the outside. This cuts back on your energy usage.
Solar panels can be installed on your roof allowing you to use solar energy. However, before beginning this process, you need to realize a few things. What you need to know first is how much of the sun does your home generally receive? If your home is shaded, the amount of energy collected from solar panels will be greatly reduced.
If you try to promote living sustainably then use your heater as little as you can during winter. Instead, start wearing warmer clothing indoors and use a pellet stove or fireplace to keep main living areas heated. Keep in mind, cooler air while sleeping makes your breathing better, and keeps your airways from getting too dry.
The flow of air in a home is better controlled when you have stormed windows and doors installed. The cold air which comes in from drafts can be reduced with proper care for doors and windows. Storm doors and windows can help save as much as 45 percent on energy costs.
Do your best to keep your windows shaded from any sunlight in summer. Curtains or blinds can also be used to do this. By doing these things, you'll lower the amount you need to run your air conditioner in the summer, as your home will already be cooler. You will save money and energy at the same time.
Energy efficient appliances have Energy Star logos. The ENERGY STAR seal indicates appliances that meet the guidelines which have been established by the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA as well. Sometimes these products offer tax rebates.
Monitor how many watts you use. Gadgets such as the Watt Minder or the Kill-A-Watt will help you find out which of your appliances are hogging energy. Plug your appliances in to these devices to find out what amount of energy is required each year, month or hour to run it. This will show you the cost of your appliance.
Demand legislation that encourages green energy usage. Awareness is a powerful tool that is under-utilized. If consumers know which corporations choose massive profit over environmentally conscious practices, then they may change their buying habits. If companies are held responsible to the public, they will have to accept change.
Turn these energy saving ideas into strategies you can use in your own home to create a greener environment. As you protect the environment more, your monthly energy bills will decrease. Keep working at it a little at a time, and ultimately your home is going to be the greenest in your neighborhood!
NOTE: Please visit these websites for more green energy secrets and tips:
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