Green energy is gaining popularity around the world. That is because green energy not only conserves the natural resources available on this planet, but because it can also be more affordable for most people. Here are some smart ways to introduce green energy to your life, if you haven’t already.
As you ready yourself to make the switch to green energy, try getting a step ahead of the game by decreasing your present energy needs. By using less energy, it will be that much easier to switch to alternative sources because you won’t be using as much. Good ways to start include using less light in your home, shortening hot showers and using cool instead of hot water for laundry.
Drying Your Laundry
Try drying your laundry outside in the sun whenever possible, rather than using a dryer. The sun gives your clothes a great smell. They will feel and smell fresher than machine-dried clothes. You will also have lower utility bills.
When shopping for new appliances, choose the ones where the energy star rating is in the most efficient range. Even if you cannot afford new appliances, you can choose new parts for your old appliances that are much more efficient and will help your old appliances save money and energy like new ones.
Are you still using oil heat? You could switch to a greener solution without replacing your furnace. Find a qualified technician to inspect your system and make sure you can switch to a biofuel. Biofuels are non-toxic, degradable and renewable sources of energy that you will be able to re-use.
Purchasing New Appliances
When you purchase new appliances, like refrigerators, ranges, and washing machines, look for the Energy Star label. The United States Department of Energy recommends these products because they save energy. You will also save money by using them. Products that are energy efficient will usually have a star on them.
Try sealing gaps underneath your doors and windows during the summer and winter. This can prevent the warm or cool air from outside from entering your home, which will help keep your home at a good temperature all year. You could also try putting in rugs to provide more insulation to your floorboards.
How To Improve Green Energy Efficiency
To help you improve the green energy efficiency of your home, consider installing solar panels in your home. Solar panels are a good source of renewable energy and can be installed at a relatively low cost. In addition, you will reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and other forms of unsustainable energy.
Think about installing natural gas in your home as opposed to other sources of power. Methane is the same fuel produced by cows and in landfills and is one of the cleanest burning gasses available on the market. It is a very green choice when deciding on your energy needs.
Solar Oven
A solar oven is a fun and effective way to reduce your energy needs for cooking. These can be made with readily available items like an old window, box, and piece of foil for reflection. These ovens reach temperatures greater than 300 degrees, while using no outside energy besides solar.
Responsibly recycling electronics is a great way to maximize resources. When people think of green energy they think of alternative energy. However, it is just as important to get the most from the non-renewable resources that we use as it is to minimize our use. Recycling electronics prevents unnecessary polluting of landfills as well as reuses resources that non-renewable.
One very basic method of using renewable green energy in your home is the use of solar power to dry your clothes. That is, hang your wet laundry out on a clothesline. The amount of energy saved by not using a dryer is considerable, and it also gets you outside in the nice weather.
Tech
Green energy does not have to be high tech. There are plenty of low-tech practices you can employ in your home that utilize green energy. Use the passive solar energy in your home for heating and cooling. Knowing when to let the sun shine and and when to block it out and save you hundreds of dollars a year on your utilities.
Once you introduce green energy to your life, it will become easier to implement the tips from the article. Implementing the tips will result in lower energy bills for you, but it will also contribute to a cleaner world. Think about how much green energy can help you, and apply the tips from this article.