THE IMPORTANCE OF GREEN HOMES FOR SUSTAINABLE ENERGY
If you live in an older home, you are probably facing issues with energy efficiency and energy savings. The good news is that these issues do not have to be a burden to you forever. There are strategies for sustainable energy, or green energy, that can be implemented into a house that is older so it can reap the benefits of greener living.
Consider these tips if you are looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint and save money at the same time.
Solar Panels for the Rooftop
Civil engineers have long touted the benefits of using solar panels for energy conservation; long before it became trendy. It is now proven that solar energy is the best way to reduce the need of using fossil fuels for energy.
Solar Water Heater
It may not always be necessary to install solar panels in order to enjoy the benefits of solar energy. A solar water heater can be installed in the home to reduce energy costs. The added advantage is that solar water heaters do not require as high of an initial investment as solar panels.
In addition, the installation costs associated with a solar water heater can be recouped faster than the costs that are associated with photovoltaic technology. This is due to the fact that solar water heaters are more efficient and there are less expenses associated with this type of system when compared to the size of a solar array that is needed to power a home.
Wind Generator
What is the first image that comes to mind when you hear the words ‘wind generator’? Most people probably think of a large windmill farm located offshore, or in the plains across the Midwest. However, were you aware that homeowners can buy smaller sized wind generators for their homes?
The cost can vary for home wind generators. There are some homeowners who have built wind generators using products off of the shelves of hardware stores. Then, there are other homeowners who have bought kits or have hired professionals to install these generators to supplement the electricity they are receiving from their local power grid.
The production capabilities of these types of wind generators can vary almost as much as the investment. Kit based wind generators will generally only produce enough energy to offset up to 15% of home energy costs. On the other hand, wind generators are more expensive to install and purchase. However, these generators can offset energy costs for you home by 90%.
