From Replacing Windows To Fixing Leaky Faucets, Green Energy Works

By Author: Todd Schlosser
Total Articles: 147
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Make Earth Day every day with these great ideas you can try at home to save energy. It will not only cut down on the cost of your heating and cooling bills, but also minimize your carbon footprint. If we work together, we can slow down the effects of global warming. From installing new windows to putting up solar panels to even just fixing that leaky faucet, saving the planet can be done at home. Simply putting in new windows can in fact halve your electric bill. Find out what you can do to get started today.

Fill Up Your Freezer
Did you know that your freezer uses more electricity empty than it does when it's full? You can save on electricity simply by filling up the unused spaces in your freezer with bottles of water. Always fill them about 2/3 fill so they don't explode, as the liquid naturally expands as it freezes. The ice helps maintain the inside temperature of the freezer, saving energy on your next electricity bill.

Fix Drafts
Find the drafts in your house, and do something about them. They do more than make sweaters more enticing. Air leaks run up the heating and cooling bills. Consider replacing ...
... leaky windows with windows. Put thermal coverings by the cracks of doors. Find the leak in the attic and seal it. You'll be surprised just how much you save by cutting off your drafts with an installation of windows.

Unplug Appliances
It's amazing how much energy can be saved simply by unplugging your coffee maker, your microwave, and even your cell phone charger. These devices slowly sap energy even if they're not used. Consider keeping these items on a power strip with a shut off switch. Why drain what you're not really using anyway?

Home Improvement
Older homes naturally lose heat and air conditioning, but you can improve them with a few simple home improvements. Consider an installation of new windows. These can not only cut your electric bill, but greatly improve the look and enjoyment of your home. In fact, windows are one of the best ways to add equity to your home. Older windows should absolutely be replaced, as the money you spend on them you'll easily make up in lower bills in just a few years. New windows are a housing investment that simply makes sense.

Todd Schlosser is the author of this article, and an experienced installer of Mountain View Windows and San Jose Windows in the Bay Area.