Using the sun, wind or water to generate energy produces fantastic results for the environment and can really reduce the cost of operating a home. If you are a heavy energy user due to the amount of technology used within the home, then these tips will show you how you can reduce your costs while continuing to enjoy the gadgets you love.

Lower the heating costs of your water, hot tubs and pools by changing over to a heating system that is run by solar power. Solar water heaters use the sun’s heat to warm water rather than using natural gas or electricity for heat. While some upgrades cost more initially, they can qualify you for deductions on your tax return for using green energy.

If you want to preserve energy, keep your windows so they are shaded from sunlight. Keep blinds closed and curtains drawn. Since this will make your house cooler, you will use the air conditioner less. Not only does this conserve energy, but it lowers your utility bills.

Government grants are available to help consumers invest in renewable energies. Contact your local government in order to see the different programs available in your area. Who knows, you may qualify for low or no-cost wind or solar installation. Even if you don’t qualify for a grant, you can still use these items as a tax deduction.

Whenever possible, use cold water to wash your clothing. Almost ninety percent of the energy used by a washing machine comes from heating the water for a warm or hot cycle. As long as your detergent is good, cold water washing can be just as effective as warm water. Also, make sure your load is a full one so you do not waste energy washing several small loads.

If you want to save money and energy, only run your dishwasher when it is completely full of dishes. Properly loading the dishwasher prior to running it will save both energy and money. The amount of dishes that can be placed in a washer is astounding. Think carefully about where you place each dish for optimal storage in the washer.

Don’t leave anything on that you aren’t using. When you leave a room, shut off the lights, TV, computer, game systems, etc. Put all of your entertainment electronics on a power strip you can turn off, as this will stop appliances from going into a power draining stand-by mode.

Install Storm Windows

If you want to save energy on heating and cooling costs, install storm windows and doors. Storm doors and windows stop drafts from letting in so much cold air. Your home’s energy efficiency will increase by as much as 45% if you install storm windows and doors!

Get rid of your old tank-style water heater, and replace it with a modern tankless model. Although they still use gas or electricity, they only heat on demand rather than maintaining an entire tank of hot water at all times. Tankless heaters can be acquired in models that could give the whole house or even just a single water faucet with water that is hot.

Make your home energy-efficient with products that conserve power. Ecologically friendly windows and doors can minimize the energy you need to operate your home efficiently. Your heat and cooling costs can drop dramatically by using these products.

Renewable Energy

Take advantage of government rebates on renewable energy installations. There are times when your utility company can offer discounts and rebates for your upgrade costs. In other instances, credit or tax deductions are offered by federal or state governments. These rebates, credits, and other allowances can make it much more affordable to install renewable energy equipment on your property.

Monitor how many watts you use. Gadgets like the Kill-A-Watt and Watt Minder can help you determine exactly which appliances account for the majority of your energy usage. Plug your appliances in to these devices to find out what amount of energy is required each year, month or hour to run it. You can get a real idea of what your appliance is costing you and the environment.

One way to help reduce energy consumption is to develop an energy savings plan. You should compare your goals with your utility bills to ensure you are staying on track. Being conscious when it comes to your energy expenditures could help significantly reduce them. So when you make true conscious efforts to reduce your electrical or water usage you make up a good habit of turning off appliances or lights which in turn helps your bill and the environment.

Switch out an old boiler. Boilers that are more than a few years old were not made to conserve energy, while many modern boilers are quite efficient. Newer boilers help by producing less carbon dioxide as well as cut down the cost of your energy bill.

A good tip is to always microwave when cooking in order to save energy. Your stove and your oven use a significantly higher amount of energy than does your microwave. Microwaves have a bed reputation because they tend to produce lackluster food and emit radiation, but the fact of the matter is that making use of them can greatly reduce your energy costs.

Getting green energy means both money saving and a healthier planet. As this article demonstrates, going green is not all that complicated or expensive. Put the good advice you have read here today to work in creating a more efficient and environmentally friendly home today.