It can be easier to cut back on resources used for running your home than you may think. With a combination of some small and big changes, you could lessen your carbon footprint, as well as save money in the process. Here are some places you can start.

When putting in a new solar energy system, the batteries that store the power should be kept really close together to the cells. This prevents energy from dissipating in a long cable. It also prevents the cable covering the cells, which would reduce their generation capability.

Get rid of your old tank-style water heater, and replace it with a modern tankless model. Even though these green versions of water heaters still use electricity or gas, they only need it to warm the water you’re using instead of heating it at all times. There are tankless heaters that can supply just one single faucet with water that is hot, but there are also models which supply the whole home.

Solar Systems

Learn about the differences between passive and active solar power. Passive solar systems are less expensive but cannot store energy like active solar systems do. You need to install solar panels and systems if you want active solar power. Passive power, on the other hand, stores the power in your walls and allows it to radiate outward, heating your home.

Make use of energy-efficient products to save both money and energy. Some green products such as eco-friendly doors, windows, and double-glazed windows can help you save energy and run the home efficiently. These products can assist you in reducing cooling and heating costs.

Green Energy

Pay attention to any federal or local rebates offered for making alternative-energy updates to your home. Ask your utility company if they offer rebates for green energy upgrades. You may also qualify for tax credits or deductions from your state or from the federal government. Rebates and credits will help to offset the cost of implementing green energy technology you want to add to your home.

If you are uncertain with regard to expensive green energy updates for your home, have a heating expert or plumber provide an overview of the systems that you currently have in place. These professionals can inform you of how much you are wasting by using appliances that are not energy efficient. That can also provide you with an estimate of how much it will be to replace your systems.

Closely monitor how many watts you are using. Get a watt monitor such as the Watt Minder or the Kill-A-Watt to find out which appliances use too much energy. All you need to do is plug the item in question into the device to find out how much energy it uses in an hour. It gives concrete information about how much energy the appliance is wasting.

A good tip is to always microwave when cooking in order to save energy. Any time you use the oven or stove, you’re using a lot of energy. So, never shy away from the microwave when using it is an option. You will save time, money, and energy by making this choice.

Although it is probably common sense, usually, most people forget to shut off lights and electronics when not using them. Most people could probably save a ton on utility bills by getting in this habit. Think in advance about what you need to do, and make it a habit to turn off anything that you are no longer using.

If you spend the additional money to purchase green appliances and electronics, over a period of time it will pay off. Usually, technologies that are green cost more than regular technologies, but in the long run this will pay off in the form of reduced utility costs. A bonus is that you will be helping to protect the environment.

To reduce electricity usage, use sensor lights in regularly-used rooms. These sensors will automatically turn off the lights of rooms that are currently not in use, saving on energy and, in turn, a lot of money! Remember the lighting outside, too.

Use the ideas laid out here and apply them to your daily home life. You will save much on energy costs, and you will also reduce your carbon footprint on the environment. If you make incremental improvements, you will have one of the greenest homes in the country in no time!