More than Just Lines on a Map: Best Practices for U.S Bike Routes
Going Green With Your Own Energy Resources
1. Going Green With Your Own Energy Resources
Environmentally friendly green energy is good for the world, and it saves you on energy costs
as well. There are plenty of things available that you can do to make your home utilize green
energy.
A solar water heating system can help lower energy costs. When you heat water with natural
gas or electricity, it isn't as efficient as using a solar alternative. By doing certain upgrades to
your home, you can often earn extra incentives and even cut backs on your energy bill.
Instead of buying that new desktop computer, purchase a laptop, as desktops use much
more electricity. Laptops use up to 75% less electricity than desktops, especially during non-
demanding tasks like surfing the web or word processing. Laptops are also portable which
makes them much more functional and handy in times of need.
Search for an Energy Star logo when shopping for appliances in order to find the most
energy-efficient ones. If the appliance has an ENERGY STAR, it means it meets guidelines
established by the U.S. Department of Energy in addition to those of the Environmental
Protection Agency. ENERGY STAR products are useful for tax credits.
Check your furnace and air conditioning filters monthly. Clean or replace them as needed.
Installing the filters in warm-air registers is also a great idea. Having filters prevents debris
from building up inside your heating ducts, which would hinder the energy efficiency of your
heating system.
During the winter, keep using ceiling fans. Switching them to the clockwise rotation lets them
push the warm air from your ceiling where it collects, which reduces use of your heating
appliances. The fans use much less electricity than your heater or furnace, which will cut
your electric bill.
If you have a farm try some energy saving alternatives. If you do happen to own some
farmland, try renting some of the land to a power company that specializes in wind energy
solutions. You will benefit from the wind turbine's free energy and it will take up minimal
space.
A solar oven can be an easy and free way to bake. These can be made with readily available
items like an old window, box, and piece of foil for reflection. These ovens are no slouches.
They can be heated up to 300 degrees, consume no energy, and are simple to construct.
If you want to save energy, think about putting your freeze and fridge in a relatively cold
location. Don't expose these appliances directly to sunlight or heat. If they absorb heat, their
internal temperature will rise and they will need more energy to run.
2. Lots of people want to go green but few put the effort in to actually make it happen. You
should now be brimming with ideas on how green energy can be implemented into your
home in a cost effective manner.
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