The possibilities for taking advantage of the green energy revolution are varied, and you'll be amazed how easy and cheap it is to go green. The information gathered here will get you started on your journey toward using green energy and reaping its many benefits.
Be aware of federal and state rebates for updating your home with renewable energy. In some cases, the local utility company will offer rebates for the cost of the upgrades. Other times, you may be eligible for credits or tax deductions from the federal or state government. These credits and rebates reduce the price you will pay to install green tech products at home.
Protect your home from losing heat energy by checking insulation. Homes that are fairly older, like around 30 years old should probably use more insulation inside of it. You will be able to lower your heating costs and warm up your home this way.
Try out one of many available home energy monitors so you can see your energy usage as it happens. This way, you can get a real-time estimate of your energy use. This can be used to predict your electric bills or to size a renewable energy system for your home. Studies suggest that if people know exactly how much it costs to use electrical equipment in their homes, they tend to be more vigilant about conserving energy.
Keep your refrigerator properly maintained. Refrigerators take up lots of energy, so making sure they're in working order is always good to know. Make sure you clean out any dust from around heating coils. Make sure door seals are clean and tight.
Consider using rain water in your home for things such as watering plants or filling your toilet. Not only will your water bills be less, you will be helping the environment. The whole process is easy. Use jars or buckets, place outside when rain is forecast, and once filled, cover and use as needed.
Making your home greener doesn't have to involve a huge investment of time or money; it can be as easy as changing out your lightbulbs. You can save a lot of energy and money just by doing a few simple projects at home. You just need to choose one small project to begin making your home greener.
One way to save money on lighting is to use paint for your walls that is lighter and brighter. Darker colors absorb light, and therefore, need increased lighting to brighten the space. More lighting equals more electricity. If you choose lighter colors instead, your home will naturally feel brighter, and save you money in energy expenses as well.
One way to conserve energy is to make sure your windows aren't exposed to direct sunlight. Shades or curtains can also help. Since your home will become cooler, you will not have to use the air conditioning that much. You will save both energy and money.
Write yourself reminders to stay on top of new energy efficiency goals, and check every utility bill against the previous year's to see if you are making gains. When you're more conscious of the energy you consume you can help to reduce costs in all areas of your life. It can be hard at first, but once you make conserving energy a routine it will become second nature to you, and will pay off greatly on your energy bills.
Use solar heating systems to heat all your water in order to save money. Traditional gas and electricity are not that efficient, but solar-powered water heaters glean the sun's natural energy to maintain even temperatures. Many of these improvements will cost you a bit up front, but the cost savings and tax deductions will usually more than offset that cost.
Consider choosing a lighter color for your walls in order to save on electricity. Darker wall colors require more light--and therefore more electricity--to feel bright, so a home full of dark-colored walls is not at its greenest. If, however, you opt for light colors, your home will feel brighter, resulting in less energy expenses.
Starting to use green energy means that you will save yourself money today, and save the planet tomorrow. Changing to a green energy lifestyle does not have to be expensive and overly complicated, so put the advice received here to good use and embrace these changes today.
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