It can be overwhelming when you think about making your home greener. Knowing how to get started and what to do to receive the most benefit can be difficult. Take time to read the following guidelines to determine the things that could greatly benefit your house.
Water heaters take up a lot of energy, so simply by lowering the temperature to around 120 degrees can save a lot of money. Doing so can save you up to 10 percent each month on your power bill, and it will provide you with an adequate amount of hot water.
Replace and clean furnace filters yearly, and check them monthly. Warm-air registers should also have filters installed on them. This will help ensure debris doesn’t enter heating ducts, thereby reducing your efficiency.
Energy Star Ratings
Replace old appliances with those labeled Energy Star. ENERGY STAR ratings mean that the appliance has met standards of the EPA and is especially crafted to use less energy than older models. Energy Star ratings promise 40% less energy for dishwashers and 50% less for washing machines.
Research the different energy sources available in your community. Check to see how much it would cost to run your home with these other utilities, and remember to take into account the government bonuses that are sometimes available. For instance, you may save on energy costs by heating your home with gas instead of with electricity or by using well water instead of city water.
Solar Panels
Solar panels can be used to help make your home green. Even though a significant cost is involved when you install solar panels, your investment cost will be recouped within several years. Once solar panels are in place the energy is free, and you might have the chance to sell some of the power to your electric company.
Keeping your windows shaded to keep sunlight out of the house will greatly conserve energy. Keep blinds closed and curtains drawn. By using heavy window covering you house will remain cooler which will decrease the amount of air conditioning needed. You will save both energy and money.
There is a lot you can do if you want to save energy. Many of these options will not cost you money, but will instead save you money, like cleaning your furnace filter monthly and turning down your thermostat when you are leaving your home. Reduce your water heat temperature to one hundred twenty degrees to save money as well. No change is too small.
Each home has a unique layout, and each has its own area. This means that green energy ideas will vary from home to home. Some green technologies are suitable for every home, while others won’t be. Use the advice that works in your situation and come up with some of your own money saving, earth friendly tips
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