Everyone loves to use their cars, microwaves, portable media players, and other life-enhancing technology, but it’s often true that these items are being used at the cost of the environment. It’s important to learn as much as possible about how to power everyone’s life without damaging the Earth, and this article will help you do just that!
Use solar heating systems to heat all your water in order to save money. Solar water heaters are much more energy efficient than electric or gas-driven water heating systems. Solar systems use the sun’s energy to stabilize water temperature. These types of upgrades, while more costly at first, may qualify you for a green energy deduction on your taxes.
Speak with your utility company about receiving your electric power from a renewable source. Many metropolitan areas get some of their power from hydroelectric, geothermal, solar, or wind powered plants. Often, the electric company can simply apply a certain amount of your electric bill to renewable energy without you needing to make any other changes.
When battery chargers and other electronics are not in use, unplug them. Cell phone and mp3 chargers draw energy even if they aren’t charging anything.
Swap your old thermostat for a greener programmable model. You can program these thermostats to adjust the temperature at particular times during the day, so your heating and cooling system will run less while you are at work or school. These thermostats are inexpensive, and they can save you money on your electric bill while preventing unnecessary energy use.
Simply cleaning or changing the filter on your furnace can cut electricity costs significantly. Too much dirt or dust built up in the vents can make more heat necessary to warm the house. It only takes a short amount of time to clean these, and you will notice the change in your bills!
In order to save energy at home, plug your electronics, including televisions and DVD players, into power strips and when you are not using them, turn off the power strips. Not only will you be preserving energy by doing this, but you will also be saving money on your electricity bill.
Whether you want to listen to music or drive across the country, the fact that you’re taking the time to learn how to do it in an environmentally responsible way is commendable. Use what you’ve read in this article to continue doing what’s best for the environment and people around you.