Are you tired of the high cost of an electric bill?
Believe it or not, electricity is a luxury item in the USA. As more and more households use more electricity for more things, the electricity bill keeps going up for everyone.
If you want to get out of the increasing and unpredictable cost of electricity, it might be time to look into it. An alternative energy source is when you source other than electricity as your own power source.
But, many people don’t know about alternative energy sources and most of them cost much less than electricity. Read on to find out which energy sources work well for your house and are inexpensive.
The Different Types of Alternative Energy Sources
Homeowners should research and assess the different types of alternative energy sources available to determine which option best fits their lifestyle and budget. This guide will help homeowners to determine which alternative energy source is right for their home.
Hydroelectric Power
By choosing to use alternatives to power homes, homeowners can reduce their environmental impact. Hydroelectric power is an attractive form of renewable energy that uses the kinetic energy of running water to generate electricity. This clean and cost-effective alternative to traditional sources of power uses the natural force of moving water to spin turbines and generate electricity with almost no emissions.
Homeowners who live near a water source, such as a river, stream, or lake, can install a micro-hydroelectric system and use that water to power their homes. With the cost of distributed hydropower systems on the decline, many homeowners are turning to this alternative source of electricity to reduce their environmental footprint and potentially save money in the long run.
An experienced electrician and hydraulic engineer can advise homeowners about choosing the right system for their needs, the installation process, and maintenance tips.
Biomass Energy
Biomass energy is created by burning organic non-fossilized material to generate heat and electricity. Biomass energy is considered carbon neutral because the carbon dioxide released by burning biomass is offset by the amount of carbon dioxide consumed when the plants and materials were growing. It can be used to heat water, a home, a pool, or to heat spaces with radiant heat. It’s also possible to create electricity from biomass energy, either individually or on a larger scale.
Homeowners considering biomass energy should research the various types of biomass systems and their associated costs to ensure the best choice for their specific situation. Because biomass energy systems have a variety of complexities, homeowners should also consult professionals to ensure the systems are properly installed and maintained to maximize efficiency, safety, and financial benefits.
Geothermal Energy
This energy source utilizes heat from underneath the Earth’s surface to generate electricity or thermal energy from hot springs, hydrothermal vents, or hot water reservoirs. Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source with little to no pollution and virtually limitless energy. This energy source offers homeowners reliable energy, with the ability to generate electricity 24 hours a day, with much lower energy costs when compared to traditional electrical sources.
This energy source can come from wells drilled several hundred feet in the ground, heated rocks fill a heat exchange chamber, and a turbine converts the heat energy into electricity or other useable forms of energy. Geothermal energy is also easy to maintain with much less upkeep than other sources, making it a great long-term energy source for many homeowners.
Tidal And Wave Energy
Tidal and wave energy can be an effective energy source for homeowners looking for sustainable alternatives. Wave energy is produced by the movement of ocean or lake currents, while tidal energy is created when the rise and fall of the tides push and pull against the shoreline. To utilize this type of energy, homeowners need to install turbines along coastlines.
While the installation costs may be high, the energy produced is free, renewable, and reliable. Wave energy is especially suitable for remote, coastal locations that are not easily connected to a power grid. The energy produced is mostly moving water rather than electricity, so there is minimal noise pollution. It also has minimal impacts on the environment.
As the technology continues to improve, tidal and wave energy should become a more viable option for homeowners looking for a green and sustainable energy source.
Wind Power
Wind power is a reliable and cost-effective form of energy for homeowners. By using energy from the wind, homeowners can reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources and their associated costs. Wind turbines can be used to capture power from the wind and then used to generate electricity or even charge batteries.
Wind turbines are designed to capture the potential energy in the atmosphere and convert it into electricity. Homeowners should be aware of the potential noise and aesthetic disruption that can be caused by turbines. Additionally, homeowners should make sure their location is suitable for a wind turbine, as the amount of wind energy available usually depends on the local geography and prevailing winds. Before taking the plunge and investing in a wind turbine, homeowners should research their local area and make sure it is suitable.
Ensuring Proper Maintenance for Alternative Energy Systems
Energy sources, such as solar and wind, offer homeowners many benefits, but they also require ongoing maintenance in order to operate effectively and efficiently. Homeowners should consult a professional to discuss the best options for their home, evaluate the total cost, and design a system to meet their needs.
It is important to follow the manufacturer’s manual for maintenance and inspection of all components of the alternative energy system. Homeowners should check batteries, wiring, electrical components, and other elements to ensure they are functioning. To learn more about solar panels and their estimated cost, check out this service and start your solar journey today.
Go Solar Today
It can be an exciting and cost-effective way to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and make a positive environmental impact. Homeowners should seriously consider utilizing these sources to reduce their energy bills and their carbon footprint.
Take the time to review the available options to see if alternative energy can benefit you. With diligent research and the right equipment, homeowners can reduce their electric bills and help reduce carbon emissions. Get started by researching the different alternative energy sources available to you today!
Expanding your home’s solar and wind energy is just the beginning. Luckily, our website has plenty of articles about using these alternative energies. To learn more, explore our other posts on our blog!