Perhaps you have heard how great solar panels can be for your home. Some of the benefits of installing solar panels on your home include government incentives and contributing to an ecologically friendly environment. Read this article for tips on using solar panels and other green alternatives.
Making small adjustments to the way you use energy every day can ultimately reduce your consumption. Unplug alliances when they are not being used. When you are no longer using them, turn off lights and the television. This is an excellent way of saving yourself some money.
Heat your pools, hot tubs and showers more efficiently with a solar hot water system. Solar water heaters tap into the abundant and free energy offered by the sun. Water heated by other methods, like natural gas, propane, or electricity, is not an efficient method. These types of upgrades, while more costly at first, may qualify you for a green energy deduction on your taxes.
Government grants help customers purchase these eco-friendly technologies. Check with the local government and find out about any possible programs you may be eligible for. You can qualify for installation of solar power at little to no cost.
Do things like wash your clothes inside some cold water, if you can. Nearly 90% of the energy that is consumed when you wash your clothes is taken up heating the water. Cold water will do the job just as well; all you need is an effective clothes washing detergent. Additionally, always wash with a full load of laundry, as this helps to lower the amount of energy you use.
Be sure to cover your windows with drapes or blinds when not at home. This helps to keep your house at a cooler temperature and lower the amount of energy used. South facing windows will receive the most sun, and therefore heat. Make sure that all the windows are covered with dark curtains, blinds, roman shades, or whatever shade you choose.
Solar energy is a great way to get hot water at a low cost. Consider a solar water heater. Two types are available, direct and indirect. If frozen pipes are a concern where you live, the indirect option is probably better.
Maintain your refrigerator well. Refrigerators constantly use energy to maintain cooler temperatures. If it is not properly cared for, it will use much more energy than it needs to. Be sure to regularly clean out the dust around the heating coils. Check the door seal for dirt, debris and leaks.
Renewable Energy
Find out about federal and local rebates for updates about renewable energy for your home. Your local utility company may be offering green energy rebates to apply updates. Additionally, it may be possible to take advantage of tax rebates offered by state and federal governments. These rebates, credits, and other allowances can make it much more affordable to install renewable energy equipment on your property.
Try to get your mail, like bills, sent to you through email. Try to use paper as little as possible. Not only will the business save on the cost of paper, but you will be saving energy from the production of that paper as well. This also keeps the environment in better shape for everyone.
Turn the heat down in your house. When the temperature drops, reach for a sweater instead of the thermostat. High heat can use too much energy.
Buy a solar oven to provide for the needs of your kitchen. These can be made with readily available items like an old window, box, and piece of foil for reflection. The internal temperature of these easy-to-build ovens can top 300 degrees, and they do not require any energy besides the sun’s rays.
Keep track of how many watts you’re using. Try using gadgets like the Kill-A-Watt and the Watt Minder to see what in your home uses too much energy. Plug your appliances in to these devices to find out what amount of energy is required each year, month or hour to run it. This lets you know how much it costs to operate an appliance.
In addition to saving energy and money, solar panels have a lot of benefits that can improve your residence. They are widely available, install easily, and can last decades. The environmental benefits couple with an increase in home value and function to make this a great choice in home renovation.