In this bad economy, people are shining the spotlight on green energy even more than they were before. Green energy is cheaper, allowing people to spend a lot less while protecting natural resources. Here are some simple tips for implementing your own green energy plan.
While it makes sense to change from traditional light bulbs to energy-saving ones, you should wait until your old ones are all burned out. It is not a good idea to throw away perfectly good bulbs in order to make the switch since that would be a way to waste energy as well.
Recycling is one of the easiest tasks that can make a greener home. Some towns automatically include costs for recycling in their garbage collection, so look into this! If not, certain states, including Michigan, will pay consumers to return bottles after use. Recycling is one of the best ways to cut energy costs!
Also, recycle your metals. Generally speaking, every city has a scrap metal recycling company with a short distance. Rather than disgarding your scrap metal, call them and ask for a quote. You'd be surprised at how much you might get!
If you are interested in alternative energy sources, you can start by contacting your current energy provider to see if they have anything to offer. Many companies are now able to harness power from solar and wind power. This may cost you more, as there is a price for the extra work involved in tapping these sources, but you will be doing the environment a favor!
A great tip for green energy use is to ensure that your home is properly insulated and has a high R value with the insulation. The best insulation has a higher R value. Not only will you save energy, but the additional insulation will keep out excessive noise from outside your home.
Keep your refrigerator properly maintained. 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. Make sure to clean heating coils often. You also want to make sure the door seal is tight and clean.
Too often, the water heater allows water to reach a scalding temperature when trying to take a shower. Try turning the maximum heat on the water heater down by twenty degrees, and you will see a definite decrease in electricity costs. Tankless water heaters are another green energy option for anyone.
Buy a programmable thermostat. An Energy Star programmable thermostat will regulate your home's temperature year-round, both day and night. Always set your thermostat a couple of degrees less than you think the temperature should be, as you won't really notice the difference in your home. An Energy Star thermostat will save you about $180 a year in heating costs.
Consider a ground-source heat pump for your home. A ground source heat pump makes use of the constant temperature of the ground in order to heat and cool the home. The ground temperature will be warmer than the air in winter but cooler in the summer, making for highly efficient heat exchange.
Not only will these tips save you money, but they will benefit the environment. In a down economy, using green energy is a smart way to lower your bills, which saves money while saving the plant for future generations.