Some believe that going green is extremely difficult, but it is really quite easy. Whether you are looking to make minor changes or something a lot bigger, either way, you are still helping the environment. Keep reading for insight as to how to go about making the change to a more environmentally friendly energy option.
If you are in the market for wooden items, try bamboo wood. It is a green product and is actually a grass; however, it is quite durable and works well even in high traffic areas. Its rate of growth is very high and is being utilized for everything from wood flooring to cutting boards. This can save energy in the manufacturing process, as well as saving in recycling costs later.
The power-storing batteries of your solar system should be installed close to the cells. Power is less likely to be lost in cables this way. This can reduce chances of cables shading cells and reducing capabilities.
You may want to get bamboo items when you're in the market for something made out of wood. Bamboo is technically grass but is just as strong as other woods. Many items are now available in bamboo. Try bamboo in your flooring, utensils, or cutting surfaces instead of traditional woods. This can save energy in the manufacturing process, as well as saving in recycling costs later.
Install solar panels to face the sun. An example would be if your house was at the Northern Hemisphere. The panels would need to face southwards as well as being at an angle equal to the home's latitude plus fifteen degrees. This maximizes the amount of power you receive from your solar panels.
Consider using a solar over when you wish to bake. You can make these with boxes, old windows or old pieces of foil that can be used for reflection. 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.
Perhaps you are intimidated by making an large, green energy investment. Seeking the input of a professional, such as a heating/cooling specialist or plumber can educate you on options. They can give you estimates on how much energy you are wasting, as well as how much it costs to upgrade.
Check the seal on your oven: heat might be escaping every time you use it. A simple broken seal can make your oven require as much as 50 percent more energy to maintain its temperature, so check this seal periodically for leaks.
Buy a type of home energy monitor so that you can see how much energy your home uses. These small devices display, in real-time, how much energy your home is using, and they can estimate your utility bill. It has been proven that people use less energy when they have a clear idea of how much it cost to use the energy.
Appliances with the Energy Star certification bear a distinctive logo that makes them easy to identify. When you see any appliance that has ENERGY STAR on it, then that means it meets guidelines approved by the U.S. Dept. of Energy and also the EPA. You can get a tax rebate from these type of items, as well.
One unique option that a green consumer can consider is having your home made of straw bale. Straw is a great form of insulation as well as being inexpensive to use. If you do not want to have straw bales in your entire home, then try adding it to only certain areas.
Lights should be turned off when not in use. Lighting your home at night is necessary, but turn them off if a room is not being used. Unless you need to, do not leave cabinet or porch lights on. This can lower the amount of energy you use.
A few examples of energy efficient changes you can make at home are changing your furnace's filter on schedule, installing CFL bulbs and using a programmable thermostat. When your friends and family see you going green, they'll be inspired and want to go green too. Keep in mind all that you learned and apply this knowledge as soon as possible.
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