Thursday, 2 August 2012

Green Energy 101: Everything You Need To Know

It is becoming very popular to have a sustainable home life. You can save ample amounts of cash and also make a meaningful environmental contribution. The following article will provide you with some useful tips on how you can capitalize on the use of green energy, right now.

Making use of the light in your oven can help you save some energy while you are cooking. By using the oven light rather than opening the oven every time you want to check your food you will save lots of energy, since a great amount of heat does escape when the oven is open.

If you use fuel oil to heat your home, ask a professional if you can use biodiesel. Sometimes you can make the switch to some use of biodiesel fuels without having to purchase new parts or make costly modifications. Biodiesel runs more efficiently, burns more clean, and costs you less during the winter.

Search for available rebates when you use renewable energy. In some cases, the local utility company will offer rebates for the cost of the upgrades. In other cases, there may be tax deductions or credits available from either the state or federal government. These credits and rebates will ultimately cut your costs of bringing green energy technology to your house.

Your electric company can assist you in making your home energy-efficient. Some of the websites of these companies contain tools to show you the amount of energy you use. They may also provide you with advice on how to cut your energy costs and electricity usage. You may also be able to find rebates or other programs to help you get energy-efficient light bulbs or appliances.

Turn off appliances you aren't using. Turn off lights, televisions and computers if you leave a room and have no plans to return. When you can, plug your electronics into a power strip and when you are not using it, turn it off. Energy is still being used when something is in standby mode.

Some government money is available to assist consumers with switching to renewable energy. Ask your local authorities what kinds of programs are available in your area. You could qualify for a no-cost wind or solar installation, or at the very least, receive a tax deduction.

Try to use cold water for washing clothes. The majority of energy use from washing clothes is in the heating of the water. Most good quality laundry detergents work just as well in cold water. Furthermore, bear in mind that you will get maximum efficiency from washing a load that is full, rather then multiple small loads.

When not using things, turn them off. When you leave a room, switch off the lights, computer or T.V. Use power strips for home electronics. As well, turn this off when you're not using your electronics. Products in standby mode still waste power.

It is very important that you check your oven's seal to ensure that heat does not escape during operation. Broken seals can cause ovens to use more than 50% more energy.

When not at home, use window coverings. This cools the house and cuts energy costs. Typically, windows that face south are positioned so that they receive the most sun. When possible, however, cover all of your windows with special shades like roller shades, roman shades or dark, thick curtains.

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.

You read in the first paragraph of this article that going green doesn't take much time and money. Even a few small changes can make a world of difference in energy consumption. Tell your friends about what you've read here so that everyone in your neighborhood can help save the planet.

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