Tag Archives: energy savings

You Can Go Green And Save A Bundle of Green

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by Rebecca Montana

Now that it is so popular you may have found that there are tons of examples of how going green can save you money. Despite Kermit the Frog’s claims – it IS very easy being green. Not only is it easy but it can save you money at the same time. Our planet is facing a period of warming and our actions are believed to be a primary cause. That being the case, it just makes sense to seek out examples of how going green saves you money and act on them.

Just think about the cell phone charger that is always plugged in or your DVD player that is just waiting around for you to play it once a week or once a month. Does your TV just sit on standby all night? These are prime examples of how small actions can save you money – if you unplug them or better yet buy a smart energy strip you are going green with ease. For even if the items are not being used, those blinking lights and clocks mean that they are consuming energy!

One other prime example of how going green can save you money is switching from bottled water to filtered tap water. Are you aware that the average family spends around $1,400 a year just on bottled water. The worst part is the 95% that ends up in the refuse pile as people just toss their plastic bottles and don’t recycle them! For less than $100 you can purchase a good staged water filter to make your tap water perfect. You can also consider purchasing stainless steel water bottles to carry your water in. They over come the need for plastic and last a long time.

Here is yet another example of how easy going green can save you money. They are simple every day things and are everywhere. If you have a lead gas foot and drive as fast as the law allows or faster, you should think more about how much it is costing you. Your cars engines performs most efficiently at around 55 miles an hour. Combine that with gentle driving on properly inflated tires, you will save money and help the planet too.

You could always use a bicycle to travel around town. Or you could simply walk for those short trips. You won’t be pouring hydrocarbons into the atmosphere, warming the planet, you will save money, and you will get some good exercise at the same time. Walking and cycling when you can are excellent examples of how going green saves you money.

Out of the approximately 65 million newspapers that are printed every day just in the US. Unfortunately 70% will not be recycled. Can you imagine this waste of trees? How can you can do your bit to help? In this day of Internet access you can now read whatever news you want to read simply by going online. Even local papers have an online presence these days, so save some money and read from the web pages. Just don’t spill your coffee on the keyboard.

By simply changing a few things each day you will be easily going green and saving money. They are all around you. Just look and you certainly will find them.

About the Author:
We are desire to assist anyone that is seeking to Going Green at Home. If you are searching for ideas to go green mosey by our website and look around at our wealth of facts, videos and products.

Solar Panels Are Cheaper Than You Think

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by Matt Lachman

There are a lot of folks looking into installing solar panels in an effort to reduce outrageous energy costs. When these folks see the cost of the professionally installed panels they realize it may not be something they can afford.

Learning how to make solar panels for yourself is a much cheaper way and one that is quite fun as well. Anyone who likes to get there hands a little dirty can acquire the skills to build there own solar panels that will power there homes, office etc.

What do you think that the cost of material for your solar panel would be compared to an already made panel? I think the difference would blow your doors off. Building your own panels not only gives you total control of the size but also the design aspect. You could get real creative.

You are probably wondering what is involved and what type of material that is needed. Most of what you will need can be found at hardware stores. These are very common items including glass, copper wire, plywood etc. You will need an inexpensive solar cell or a photovoltaic cell, which are also easily found. So if you are worried about that, DON’T!

All that is needed, once you have the supplies, is a top notch manual that guides you through the process step by step. Wait, I almost forgot. You will need to have about a day to build a panel that will power a small shop.

Building your project the right way the first time is a very important part of the process. You don’t want to hate doing this if you want to build many of them. You want it to be totally enjoyable and for that reason I believe that getting your hands on the best manual is very important. Since the amount of energy that you will save is so great you will want to get a great guide to setting it all up

Now you know that you need a good manual and hopefully you have one so that you can get stated. Once you put the system in place you will actually look forward to when the power goes out. Wouldn’t it be cool to look down the street and see total darkness except for for your house.

I hope this article helped you make up your mind. Whether you are pursing this to be “green” or you just want to save a lot of money or maybe both, you can master this in no time at all with the right coach.

About the Author:
Matt Lachman writes on building your own solar system. Learn the correct way the first time at last. This and other unique content ‘solar panels’ articles are available with free reprint rights.

Before You Buy Windows: 6 Things You Should Know

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by Steven M. Fisher

1: IT’S ABOUT STYLE

Windows can completely change the look of your house, so before you replace your replace your existing windows with the same exact kind, look for windows that express your home’s style as well as your personal style. Double hung windows will give you a traditional style while horizontal slider and awning windows give you a more modern look. If you are looking for a period look, the mutins or grids on a window can add to that.

2: THE SAFE AND SOUND TEST

Once you find your style, check out the window for security and noise. For anyone who lives near a busy street, think about windows with laminated glass. Laminated glass will reduce noise transmission and will hold up in extreme weather conditions. However, this alternative is considerably more expensive than a basic window.

3: THE MAINTENANCE TEST

Here is the big question: How much maintenance do you want to do on your windows in the long run? If you have little time for household chores, then consider no-hassle hybrid cladding or vinyl framed windows rather than wood. Additionally, does your choice need repainting? Make sure to ask about warping, rotting and cracking. Consider double-hung windows for ease of cleaning from the inside. The is especially important if you have a multi-story home with windows that are difficult to reach.

4: GLASS CONSCIOUS

Some windows allow for better ventilation and others have a larger glass area allowing for more daylight or to capture the views. How about transoms or sidelights? Options include tempered impact glass, low-e glass that limits UV rays and glass that reduces heat loss while letting heat from sun to penetrate. Energy Star compliant windows enhance energy efficiency and make the house more comfortable.

5: CHECKING THE PRICE

Double check the price against other windows you have looked at. Quality windows are available in all price levels. Generally, the choice of glass and material used in the frame determine the price.

6: OTHER IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

Should your windows open for ventilation? Or stay closed to prevent energy loss? Do you have privacy issues to consider? How many windows do you need? And finally, measure the size of your rough openings.

About the Author:
Steven M. Fisher has spent several years in the fields of Home Remodeling, Building and Decorating. Before you buy or anything to do with your home, check out his “6 Things You Need To Know” articles. They will save you time, money and frustration. Click the above links and you can quickly find out information on about most products in your home at the click of a mouse.