The options for going green can sometimes seem overwhelming to the novice. Does it seem too expensive and hard for you to consider? No worries! The ways to conserve energy outlined in this article will prove that using green energy can be simple and inexpensive.
When designing outdoor lighting for your patio or garden path, consider solar-powered lamps. Solar-powered lamps are usually inexpensive, and they don't need any power source besides the sun. You save a lot of energy in the process. As an added benefit, you are spared the trouble of running an outdoor wiring system.
Install a toilet that uses less water. Some estimates report that about half of the water consumption in a home is from the toilet. With the older model of toilets, the amount of water consumed each time they are flushed is 5 gallons; however, the newer, water-saving models consume only 1.6 gallons per flush, which will yield a saving of approximately 70 percent in your annual water consumption.
It's important to maintain your refrigerator properly. Refrigerators take lots of energy to run, so it's crucial to make sure it is running effectively. Make dusting the coils part of your weekly cleaning routine. Also, ensure that the door seals tightly and that it is clean.
Find out more about active and passive forms of solar power. Active solar power is stored so it can be used later, but passive doesn't need pricey solar panel cells to store power. To use active power, you must install mechanical systems, cells and solar panels. Passive power uses the simple sun to generate thermal energy to heat your house.
There are many ways to conserve energy when doing your laundry. Most dryers have a moisture setting that will shut your dryer off when the clothes are dry. The high-spin feature can work to reduce the amount of moisture in the laundry, thus limiting drying time. Be sure to clean dryer filters and check for blockages in the dryer vent.
Consider installing a water-saving shower head in your bathroom. This feels similar to a traditional shower head, but saves a lot of water. Your water bill will notice a significant reduction, and you'll also be helping out the earth in the process.
List all of your appliances and the watts they use before talking to a professional about installing solar panels. You will get a more accurate quote for the installation if the dealer knows your energy requirements.
Position solar panels so that they are facing the sun. Remember that a home in the North Hemisphere must face its panels to the south. They must be at an angle equal to your latitude with 15 degrees added. This results in the most efficient power production possible.
See if your insulation needs replacing. If your home was built before 1982, your insulation could probably use an upgrade. You will be able to lower your heating costs and warm up your home this way.
Buy a dehumidifier. Your air will feel warmer if it contains humidity. Before starting up the air conditioner on muggy days, consider running the dehumidifier instead. You may find the dehumidifier will reduce ambient air temperature enough to keep you comfortable. This can let you use the air conditioning less.
Research the different energy sources available in your community. Check how much these utilities cost and any tax breaks or energy saving rebates before making a decision. For instance, you may save on energy costs by heating your home with gas instead of with electricity, or by using well water instead of city water.
You can use bio-fuels to heat your house. Bio fuels are usually composed of vegetable fats, animal fats, wood and oil. If you have a propane furnace, you may be able to have a professional retrofit your furnace to work with bio fuel blend. This way, you would have approximately 20 to 99 percent biodiesel. Just be sure to consult with a professional before attempting to use this fuel in your home.
What do you have to do to make your home more green? You have the necessary information on ways to conserve energy, now it's time to put it to use in your life. Start now and you'll see the positive effects in no time!
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