The following article will help to answer many of your questions and provide useful information on how you can get started with the use of greener energy sources in your home today.

Consider outdoor lighting, such as garden or patio lighting, that is solar-powered. They are not only affordable, but they do not have to be hooked up to any power source, needing only good access to sunlight. You will not only reduce the energy you use. It also means that you avoid having to go outside and wire up outdoor lights.

People can get government grants to invest in some renewable energies. Ask your local authorities what kinds of programs are available in your area. You can qualify for installation of solar power at little to no cost.

Take the time to clean or replace your furnace every season. Monthly checks will assure your furnace never has to work hard. Filters can also be installed in every warm-air register. Doing so will prevent debris in heating ducts and it reduces energy.

If possible, use cold water in your clothes washer. Most of the energy used to wash clothes is actually used in heating up the water. If your laundry detergent is a high quality brand, the use of cold water won't affect the cleanliness of your clothing. Additionally, it is more energy-efficient if you are washing full loads instead of small ones.

Purchase a solar water heater to warm up your water. If you live in an area where freezing temperatures are not a problem, you can purchase a system that heats water through a heater that is solar before it pumps it in your home. As is true with many solar options, you should keep your traditional water heater for times when there is not enough sun, or in case you need to use a lot of water.

If you heat your home with fuel, talk to a technician about using biodiesel. A lot of existing systems can change to some bio-diesel utilization without modifications or using any extra parts. The bonus of doing this is a cleaner burning fuel that is g