Sustainable energy sources are just one part of saving energy and reducing costs while saving the planet. Renewable or sustainable energy sources are very important in the future of the world’s energy generation. However, until such time that all the renewable sources can be successfully harnessed for each household, you can do a few other things to save energy.
Plan your energy use. Use the heating system only when necessary. Use the water heater in a way that it does not run the whole day. Plan ahead so you can shower and do the dishes while it is one and the switch it off to save power. Cook meals ahead of time on one day and saves energy by only using the stove and oven once or twice a week. Use timers to manage when your lights are needed. Automated home systems are making the management and planning of energy use very easy.
Unplug unused appliances. This really does make a difference in energy use and costs. When you are not using the microwave or your hair dryer or your laptop or your printer, unplug it. There are some appliances that have to stay on like the refrigerator, but non-essential appliances that are not used should be unplugged. This has been proven to save energy.
Make your own energy-saving devices. There are so many ideas from solar panels made from CDs to green roofs and mini wind turbines. Make use of some of these gadgets or activities to help reduce your energy use and impact on the planet. It can be a family activity and it will stimulate your creative side. Once you see these small and affordable devices make a change to your daily life you will wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Avoid using electrical appliances if you can. Some appliances like the oven and refrigerator are necessary. However, a clothes dryer uses a lot of energy and the sun can dry your clothes just as well and actually help avoid mould development. So, instead of shoving your washing into the dryer, rather let them dry in the sun. The same can work for dishwashers. If you don’t have a lot of dishes dirty at the same time, wait to use the dishwasher. Alternatively, you can wash small amounts of dirty dishes by hand instead of using the dishwasher. If you have a look at your daily electricity use, you will find other devices you can use less and swop for non-electrical options.
Dress warmer before you turn the heat on. Instead of just automatically going for the heat switch, try and put on another jersey or jacket and get a blanket. Saving energy is a good reason to cuddle with loved ones and keep each other warm. The same goes for cooling systems. Before you switch on the fan or air conditioning system, try other methods of cooling down. You can insulate your home and plant trees strategically to block the sun.
Incorporate renewable energy sources. If you can afford it and your property allows for it, install solar panels or wind turbines. These alternative energy sources will save you a lot of money and it will also reduce your use of fossil fuel energy. These sources can be expensive to install, but if you are able to do it, it is an investment. You will be very grateful in the coming years. For those who cannot yet afford it, don’t worry. The technology is improving constantly and soon everyone will be able to afford alternative energy sources and benefit from them. You can have a look at the options offered by 3D printing to start with small things.
Use eco-friendly products. Buy eco-friendly light bulbs for your home and office. They use much less energy than normal bulbs. Also, look at buying energy-efficient appliances when you need to buy new ones or upgrade. Most kitchen appliances and things like washing machines have eco-friendly counterparts.
Have your house inspected. You can do this yourself if you don’t want to hire someone. Inspect things like door and window frames. If you can see light or feel air coming through the cracks, you may be losing heat that is causing an increase in energy use to heat up the home. Also, have a look at your home’s insulation and roofing and see if it may need upgrading or repairs. Heaters and other appliances can also be inspected for condition. If any appliances become hot while in use, it may be a sign of bad wiring or a potential energy problem. You can check out any devices and appliances and ensure that they are functioning correctly and not using more energy than they should.
Automate your house. This is not an option for everyone, but if you can afford it, you will save a lot of money. Automation systems use monitors that sense the levels of heat and cold and adjust heating and cooling accordingly. You can also control these systems through your cell phone or mobile device. For example, if you forgot to switch off a light or the oven, you can send a message to the system and will switch the appliance off. These systems are also easy to connect to alternative energy sources like solar systems or wind turbines. Automated home systems also warn you when it picks up problems with appliances and energy use.
These are simple ways in which you can save energy and save yourself some money. Many of the options to go completely green are still costly, but soon they will be more affordable. Technology is improving daily and if you can make small changes, you will soon be able to integrate all your efforts. Try and work in some creativity to make the transition fun. You won’t regret making the change to go green.a