Renewable energy is often associated with green or “eco-friendly” homeowners.
While environmentally-conscious homeowners have certainly mainstreamed alternative power at home, renewable energy benefits go beyond saving the planet.
Why aren’t more homeowners embracing renewable home energy?
One of the biggest roadblocks to change is money. However, there are plenty of low-cost solutions for households on a budget.
Learn how alternative energy can benefit your home and save money in the process.
1. Take it Easy on the Hot Water
There’s nothing more relaxing than a hot shower or bath, but do you really need an hour-long shower?
One of the first alternative energy hacks is also the easiest.
Reducing your hot water consumption conserves precious water, but you also save big on your utility bills. Cutting hot water is easier said than done, especially in large households.
Call a house meeting to discuss hot water consumption. Discuss the drawbacks of overusing hot water, and suggest ways to reduce. Limiting showers to under 15 minutes is a great start. You can also adjust your hot water heater to restrict the number of hot showers.
Discourage baths unless they’re for medical reasons. Baths waste an awful amount of hot water.
Laundry is another culprit. Use cold water unless you have tough, stubborn stains.
Dishwashers also use quite a lot of hot water. Run the dishwasher when it’s completely full, not half full. The same applies to your laundry loads, too.
Remember to fix any leaks or old pipes. Hot water leaks will drive up your water bill in no time!
2. Ditch Old Lightbulbs
Are you still using old incandescent lightbulbs?
These bulbs are definitely the cheapest, but they generate more waste over time. They’re also the least energy-efficient, which spells bad news for your utility bills.
Don’t let the higher price fool you. LED lightbulbs are a much better investment. These bulbs last 35-times longer than traditional lightbulbs, according to Green America.
Some LED lights can last up to 10 years, so be good to your bulbs! LEDs can break just as easily as cheap incandescent bulbs.
3. Energy-Efficient Home Additions
Cost is the primary reason why homeowners reject renewable energy sources. However, there are resources that can help.
First, check if your city or state has loan programs or grants for eco-friendly additions. Look into home improvement loans, as well.
Just one loan can cover the cost of your solar panels, and the panels pay for themselves in time. Altair Solar Solutions also points out that solar panels increase home value, which is great news for homebuyers and sellers.
You can also start small by replacing appliances with energy-efficient alternatives. Replace your old fridge, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer with Energy Star appliances.
Discover Renewable Energy Benefits At Home
Are your utility bills spiraling out of control? Do you want to do more to help the planet?
Discover these renewable energy benefits for yourself!
Remember these tips and benefits as you switch to an eco-friendly solution, and check out the blog for more green lifehacks.