Today, we realize the importance of taking better care of the environment that sustains us. One way to take better care of the environment and save you money as well, is by using green energy in your home. This article will introduce you to a few of the many ways that you can put green energy to work at home today.
To make your home more energy efficient on a tight budget, write up a green improvement plan. Knowing what you want to upgrade or change will give you a check-list and help you to break your efforts down into more attainable short-term goals. Every week, check the flyers for home improvement stores to see if any of the necessary supplies are going on sale.
Going green means many things, including saving energy in your home. One of the easiest and best money-saving ideas is to insulate your attic. The recommended insulation level for most attics is approximately 12 to 15 inches, depending on the type of insulation you are using. Attic insulation can save you a bundle on your energy bill!
Are you currently using a wood-burning fireplace to decrease your dependence upon fossil fuels? If so, remember to shut the flue damper very tightly when your fireplace is not being used. If you forget to do this, both warmed or cooled air will easily escape from your house through the chimney.
When traveling short distances, try not to use your car. Instead, walk, run, or use a bicycle. Automobiles are not only expensive to keep up with, but they have many negative effects on the environment. If you must use your car, be sure that it is tuned up when necessary.
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.
A good energy saving tip for those of us who enjoy cooking is, to use an appropriately sized burned on the stove. Using a large burner with a small pot or pan is simply a waste of heat, and energy as much of the heat escapes to the surrounding air.
If you have a stream or creek on your property, you may want to look into using a micro hydro-power system as an energy alternative. The flow of water through a turbine will produce energy. Many times the amount of energy is not enough to fully power a home, but will offset the cost of your electric bill each month.
If taking better care of the environment is a priority for you, then hopefully, you will put some of the tips you have read today, to practical use in your home to begin minimizing your carbon footprint and making your home more energy efficient. The savings alone could make it well worth your while!
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Turn off lights in rooms not in use. Be aware of dryer use. Check the temp. on your hot water tank , cut it back a little. Don’t leave outside lights on . ( get motion detector. ) Cut back the amount of heat going to unused rooms. Hope this helps
Samantha recently posted..Freelance Writer Devon
Good tips thanks. Anyone else who has more, please add.
My question is, is it more energy-efficient to keep your hot water permanently heated to the temperature you want it, or just heat it a couple of times a day the times of peak usage (getting up and going to bed)? I would have said the latter, but someone told me it’s more efficient to keep it hot all the time. Very puzzled!! Please add your views
Check to see you have enough insulation , Call your gas ,electric company, get their energy efficiency starter kit. ( Energy saving light bulbs ) Caulk and seal all drafty areas. Add weather strips around drafty doors, windows.. Keep garage door closed, when not using it. Turn off lights in rooms not in use. Be aware of dryer use. Check the temp. on your hot water tank , cut it back a little. Don’t leave outside lights on . ( get motion detector. ) Cut back the amount of heat going to unused rooms. Hope this helps