Powering a modern home can add significantly to your monthly budget. This is especially true if you have adopted many of the newer electric technologies that are more environmentally friendly than their gas counterparts. Luckily, the following strategies can effectively lower your home energy costs and put you back in control of your budget.
Why Solar Is the Way To Go
Installing solar panels San Antonio is one of the most effective strategies for managing the cost of home power consumption. New technology allows homeowners to generate increased amounts of energy from a roof-mounted array, meaning you can easily supplement grid power. Adding solar to your current system is particularly attractive right now thanks to tax credits and incentives from manufacturers.
When you choose to install solar panels, you can continue to use your appliances and devices as you do now, without worrying about cutting back to save money. Plus, it is a clean and renewable energy source, so you know you are doing your part to help reduce carbon emissions.
Another reason many homeowners opt for solar panels is that they can help reduce reliance on the grid during power outages. Unfortunately, widespread blackouts are increasingly common. However, with a battery backup on your solar panel installation, you can remain safe and comfortable when surrounding homes go dark.
Alternatives to Solar Energy
There are alternatives to solar energy for homes. However, many of them are expensive to implement, not available on the residential level, or still working to bring the technology up to safe and effective levels.
Biomass
Burning wood or other materials can be an effective way to heat a home for less than electricity. It is not a clean technology, and individuals with respiratory issues should use extra caution with this approach. Biofuels are a subset of biomass energy and are used at the residential level in many areas.
Wind
Power generation through wind is possible on a small scale. It is not dependent on the sun, so it could be a good choice for homes in far northern locations. Unfortunately, many of the home turbines on the market require strong winds to produce power.
Ways To Cut Back on Energy Consumption
Solar power cost and installation is an investment for long-term bill reductions, but you may not be ready to jump in just yet. If you still want to realize monthly savings on your power bill, consider adopting some of the following strategies to lower energy consumption.
Schedule an Energy Audit
This is a simple step to find out where you are wasting energy and how to stop it. Examples of typical outcomes include identifying areas where you can increase insulation, recommendations to seal or replace drafty windows and doors, and swapping lights to LEDs.
Upgrade Your Appliances
Modern appliances are increasingly efficient, and some are more than others. Purchase energy-efficient appliances, such as those with an Energy Star seal, to reduce the amount of power you use for normal daily activities. The difference between an Energy Star refrigerator and one without the seal can be substantial.
Solar power can help reduce your household power costs and carbon footprint. Talk to Denver solar companies to design a system to supplement grid power and supply emergency backup.
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