Making these switches to your home can be overwhelming. Knowing how to get started and what to do to receive the most benefit can be difficult. For solutions to the problems potentially posed by going green with your household energy use, check out the following helpful tips.
If you are planning on switching to green energy, it can seem too discouraging to jump in and do it all at once. While an entire home and land can be overwhelming, try narrowing your efforts to one room at a time. A good first step is a bedroom, where you can use solar power for just a reading lamp and a radio or alarm clock. Then work up from there!
Contact your current energy provider and see if they offer an option for you to use renewable-energy sources. Many providers harness renewable energy through solar or wind power and therefore, have this option available for their clients. However, you should keep in mind that this may cost a little bit extra.
Start small. Even if you don’t have the resources for a large-scale green energy project, there are still steps you can take. For example, solar chargers for small electronics generally only require the device to be set near a window for a few hours. Don’t underestimate the power of a small step.
Simply cleaning or changing the filter on your furnace can cut electricity costs significantly. Too much dirt or dust built up in the vents can make more heat necessary to warm the house. It only takes a short amount of time to clean these, and you will notice the change in your bills!
Use solar-powered outdoor lights. Outdoor lighting elements are a great place to use solar power, since there is easy access to sunlight. There are a wide range of lighting options to fit any decor. Not only does the solar-powered feature save on your energy bill, but it also makes these lights easy to install anywhere on your property.
Always be consistent in maintaining your fridge. Your fridge consumes a ton of energy, so make sure it’s in good shape. Make a regular habit of removing dust from the refrigerator’s heating coils. Also, check the door to be sure it is sealed tightly.
Pay attention to the thermostat in your home. Installing a programmable thermostat makes it easier for you to track the temperature in your house, and turn the heat down when you aren’t at home. Between 1 and 3 percent of your energy costs can be cut for each degree you turn it down!
Dress in warm clothes to cut costs! A light sweater gives you 2 extra degrees of warmth, while a heavy sweater gives you 4 degrees. You don’t need to dress lightly inside, so wear a sweater!
Replace your furnace with one that has the Energy Star seal on it. You can save 15 to 20 percent on your month energy costs if you purchase a highly efficient furnace. You can even get a federal tax credit that will help cover the cost of your new furnace!
A great way to garden green and efficiently use green energy is to xeriscape. This means plant native plants in your yard so that there is less maintenance and energy used on it. You will save by not using a lawn mower and you will not have to use energy on your sprinklers to water natural plants as often.
All homes are built differently and are located in different areas. It is important to keep these parameters in mind when choosing a technology. There are a few types that can work in every home, while others are built for homes of a specific design or location. When you see tips that fit your current scenario, make use of them wisely.
