There’s an abundance of information available relating to green energy, so it’s tough to know where to look and what to trust. This article will provide you with some basic information that can get you started down the road to using green energy in your own home.
You can easily get solar panels installed in your home to collect solar energy for your use. There are a few things to consider before installing them. One thing to factor into your considerations is the amount of sun your house actually gets over the year. If your home is mostly in the shade, or if you live in a location that receives little sun, your power gain may be minimal.
Clean your furnace filters regularly and replace them at least one time a year. Also install filters on air registers. This can prevent anything from getting caught in the ducts.
Close the curtains or blinds before you leave the house. This simple act blocks the sun from entering and heating your house in the summer, while in the winter, it keeps the heat from escaping through drafty windows. Typically windows on the southern side of the home receive the most sun. Use dark curtains, roman shades, roller shades or other coverings on all windows.
Heating your water with the power of the sun can be very efficient. If you live in an area where freezing temperatures are unlikely, you can purchase systems that circulate water through solar heating systems before pumping it inside for use. Even though solar water heaters are useful, it is still necessary to have a normal water heater for periods of extended cloudy weather or unusually high hot water use.
Solar hot water heaters are an excellent way to have lower costs on your hot water energy use. Simply put, all you need is a hot water system that uses solar energy. There are direct circulation systems as well as indirect systems. The indirect option is probably your best bet since you will not have to think about frozen pipers during the winter.
Air flow is controlled best in homes with storm windows and doors. Storm doors and windows decrease cold air from drafts. Installing storm windows and doors can increase energy efficiency by up to 45%.
If you love green energy and green living, consider using electric heaters less during the winter months. Instead, start wearing warmer clothing indoors and use a pellet stove or fireplace to keep main living areas heated. You will breathe better during your sleep if the air is cool.
There are active and passive options for solar energy systems. Active solar power is stored so it can be used later, but passive doesn’t need pricey solar panel cells to store power. To use active power, you must install mechanical systems, cells and solar panels. Passive power uses the simple sun to generate thermal energy to heat your house.
Get started with some great tips in this article for implementing the use of green energy in your home. These ideas boast affordable and simple ways to help transform your home and life into a more green and energy efficient environment. Not only will your family appreciate your efforts, but the planet will, as well.