As energy prices go up, many people are looking to alternative power solutions in order to save money. However, converting an entire house to go off grid can be costly, and the work involved may be too much for some homeowners. That doesn't mean that you have to abandon the idea of alternative power however, and there are plenty of small and simple solutions that you can implement that won't cost much money, but can still reap big rewards.
1. Install a solar power water heater.
This is a very easy fix that just about any homeowner can try. A single panel is used that will be hooked directly into the water heater. You'll be able to harness the power of the sun to help you heat your house's water and you may be surprised at just how much money you can save.
2. Wash your clothes in cold water.
If you're not quite ready to convert your water heater over to solar power, you can still save money by washing your clothes in cold water. On average, this can save a household more than $60 a year, which may not sound like much, but when added to other solutions, it can make a difference.
3. Install Solar Air Heating Panels.
This is a great idea, especially if you are using a furnace that requires either propane or heating oil. The basic concept is that you are using solar power to run your forced air furnace and the savings can be significant. While you don't have to re-fit your entire house, you may need to get an electric furnace, and of course, the panels to run it. However, this is a relatively small investment that will more than pay for itself in a short time, especially considering how high the prices have gone for propane and heating oil this year.
4. Line dry your clothes.
It's funny, but a lot of our energy consumption has to do with laundry. We've already covered two tips on how to save big by using cold water, or changing how you power your water heater, but line drying your clothes can also save a significant amount of money. This is of course a little difficult in winter, but if you use this technique during the summer months, you can save quite a bit of money. You may need to use fabric softener for some clothes, but overall, this is a very easy and cheap way to get your clothes done.
The best way to save money on your energy costs is by watching your overall consumption. Consider installing new light bulbs that are more energy efficient, turn your heat down and your air conditioning up, and watch the length of your showers. By combining many different techniques, you can easily save money and you'll only have to invest a small amount of money to get started. In fact, many of these options are absolutely free. Over a few weeks, you should start to see a big difference in your power and gas bills.
Photo Credit: 1
Originally posted 2008-11-03 05:07:35. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
Related Posts -
How to Buy the Right Water Heater A water heater is an essential appliance that is commonly overlooked in many homes. Typically they will provide years of service, and you may never realize that it is either terribly inefficient or even faulty. Here are some tips to help you determine whether your current water heater should be...... -
The Stanley Complete Step-by-Step Revised Book of Home Repair and Improvement By The Stanley Company When it comes to home repair, one of the most trusted names has to be the Stanley Company. They make what many consider to be the best tools, and when you see that yellow and black label, you immediately know you can count on it. This branding has served them...... -
Save Money and Time with a Bathtub Remodel You've heard of a bathroom remodel, but what about a bathtub remodel? Replacing a bathtub can easily cost three to five thousand dollars if you have a contractor do it. If you purchase the tub and do it yourself, you can save a lot of money. But sometimes, especially in...... - Solar Power Your Home For Dummies By Rik DeGunther As energy prices keep going up, many homeowners are starting to investigate cheaper alternative energies that can be easily installed, and run on a daily basis. Whether you’re trying to cut costs, or you just want to go green, solar power is often the first choice of many homeowners. The......
- Caring For Your Old House By Judith Kitchen We loved the subtitle of this book, Respectful Rehabilitation, and this convinced us to give the book a try. There are more than enough wreckovating books out there, and for those that are interested in maintaining the charm of older homes, a book like this is a rare find indeed.......
Related Websites -
4 Modern Ways to Get Rich by Saving Money For many people, one of the best ways to a better and much more established financial future has been to save money. For that reason alone, those who firmly believe in the immense power behind the act of saving money always find a way to put some of their money...... -
The Very Best Money Saving Tips Always trying to save money but somehow you always end up spending more than you save? I will try and detail my very best money saving tips for you to make use of. Saving money can be easier than many people think, but only if you go about it the...... -
5 Ways to Save Money Without Even Trying The whole process of saving money is usually associated with pinching pennies until they scream for mercy, living on food from dented cans and basically giving up everything for a future goal. While this will indeed help you put more money away, saving does not need to mean hardship. We...... -
Dolphin Isle Marina, Fort Bragg, CA Dolphin Isle Marina is located in: Fort Bragg, CA Phone: 707.964.4113 Average Water Depth: The average water depth here is around 14 feet, but this is subject to change due to weather conditions. We recommend calling ahead to check the current levels before you arrive. Marine Standby Channel: Yes, the...... -
Acoustic Guitar Accessories Regardless of whatever type of acoustic guitar you end up getting, the accessories that you choose are going to play a vital role in protecting the investment that you make. As you read through this list of accessories and equipment for your acoustic guitar, keep this in mind: Not all......
- Make Simple BBQ Sauces Outdoor Cooking & Eating Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living
- Water Heaters Heating, Cooling & Air Home Improvement
- Electric Heater Timers & Controllers Watering Equipment Gardening & Plants Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living
- Floating Solar Pool Heaters & Solar Panels Pool Parts & Maintenance Pools & Spas Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living Nursery
- Cold Room Steam Saunas Pools & Spas Yard, Garden & Outdoor Living Nursery
Categories:
Energy, Handy Man
Tags:
0 comments ↓
There are no comments yet...Kick things off by filling out the form below.
Leave a Comment