Does Solar Renewable Energy Work?

You've probably heard a lot from the "go green" movement which has swept the country into an environmental craze. While some people who are eager to see green renewable energy sources implemented on a wider scale would stretch the truth as to just how much you can benefit from it, it's important to be able to separate the myths from the truth.

The answer is yes, you can use solar renewable energy to power your home. Using solar cells which you can easily create in your own backyard over a weekend using a do it yourself guide which work just as well as solar cells which you could have professionally installed for a much greater price, you can convert sunlight into natural electricity. The process is simple enough to grasp. As photons on the rays of sunlight come down and are absorbed by the silicon in the cell. The electrons are shaken free from their atoms and are then dispersed through the cell to form usable natural electricity. The addition of a generator allows you to store this natural electricity so that you can keep power supplied to your home, even during lulls in service such as the middle of the night.

Many people not only run their homes on this natural electricity, but they also create surplus amounts of it to sell back to the power company for a profit. If they've got some free land to devote towards it, they make a nice second income this way. You can do this, as well, just on a smaller scale. It's really up to you as to how many solar cells you create and how much space you have on your home or in your yard to implement it. Using a do it yourself guide you can make as many as you want, you can even build some for your friends or family, or even sell them to other people.

The average family spends roughly $2500 on electricity each year. If you'd like to save that much by easily tapping solar renewable energy and creating your own natural electricity, visit http://www.renewableenergyreviewed.com to learn more about the leading do it yourself guides on the market and start saving today.

All About Renewable Energy Sources & Their Effectiveness

Renewable energy is an energy generated from the natural sources. It includes wind, solar, tides and geothermal energy. This kind of energy is pollutant free and environmental friendly. The rapid decline of non renewable energies like petroleum, coal and natural gas have made us look for better energy sources. The renewable energy is fast growing industry with an investment capital of over $100 billion in 2006. There are different kinds of renewable energies. This article gives a brief idea of each of the resources.

Wind energy

Wind energy can be used to run the turbines to produce electricity. Their lots of wind farms located over the world to generate electricity up to 5MW. The output of the turbine depends on the speed of the wind, the higher the speed the more the electricity that is produced. So these windmills are set up in those places with high wind speed like mountain tops or sea coasts.

Water power

Energy from the water can be derived in many ways. They are through salinity gradient, kinetic energy of water, temperature difference. The moving water in the river is used to rotate turbines to produce electricity. These can be done by constructing hydro electric dams. Water is made to fall from a height at a high pressure to give a high kinetic energy.

Solar energy

Solar energy is the energy produced from the sun. The rays of the sun are made to fall on solar panel to generate electricity. The output of the power depends on the amount of sunlight concentration and the composition of the solar panel. This energy is growing at high pace becoming popular with lot of households. The energy of the sun can be used to heat water in the homes using solar water heater or even cook food with solar cooker.

Did you know that you can easily start using renewable energy sources yourself? Simply build your own windmill or solar panels, and you are done! Click here for step-by-step instructions and more info.

How to Start Using the Earth For Energy

Using the earth for energy is probably the best way of saving money on energy. Why? Because it eliminates the need to rely on your utility company for energy and allows you to produce your own source of natural energy. By utilizing the earth for energy you can start saving 80% or more on your energy bill every single month which means hundreds of dollars in savings. What would you do with all of that extra cash? Using the earth as an energy source is also easier than ever because of new technological advancements in the field of green energy. How can you get started? Let's find out...

There is no denying that using the earth as an energy source is the best way to save on energy. Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the potential that our earth holds. This is truly sad because it is now incredibly easy to take advantage of the earth for power. How? Just by using a DIY green energy guide.

A DIY green energy guide provides every step of the process of making your own natural power source and it puts it into one place. This means that the process of using the earth for power will be both quick and easy. In just two days time you can create your own source of wind or solar power and start saving a ton of cash on your electricity for the rest of your life. The possibilities are endless when it comes to the earth as your own energy source.

Would you be interested if I told you that for less than $50 you could build your own wind turbine or solar panel system in just two days? If so, then just click the link below. You do want to save hundreds of dollars every month by using the earth for energy, right?

Click Here

Build Green For the Environment

Sustainable, or green building, is a structure that is designed, built, renovated, operated, or reused in an ecological and resource-efficient manner. Green building plans are designed to meet certain objectives and use key resources such as using materials, energy, water, and other resources more efficiently while reducing the overall impact to the environment. By utilizing more natural light, better air quality, wind turbines, solar panels, insulation alternatives, and water storage tanks, a well designed home will contribute to improved efficiency, health, and comfort in your home.

Green Building Financial Benefits

Typically, a green building will cost more up front, but saves through lower energy costs over the life of the building. The up-front expenditure will be absorbed over time by the project life cycle cost analysis. The benefits include energy and water savings, reduced waste, and lower operation and maintenance costs.

These and other cost savings can only be fully realized when they are incorporated at the project's conceptual design phase with the assistance of an integrated team of professionals. The integrated systems approach ensures that the building is designed as one system rather than a collection of stand-alone systems.

Even with a tight budget you can incorporate many green building measures which can be incorporated with minimal or zero increased up-front costs and they can yield enormous savings over the project life.

Site Selection

Start by selecting a site well suited to take advantage of solar exposure, and suitable area for the size of building proposed to minimize disturbance of the environment to protect and retain existing landscaping and natural features. A custom home plan can be set partially into the ground which helps to cool the building in the summer, and in the winter once you get below the frost line the temperature is constant year-round and tends to be warmer than the air outside. Protect and retain existing landscaping and natural features. Select plants that have low water and pesticide needs, and generate minimum plant trimmings. Use compost and mulches. This will save water and time. Water can be collected from the roof in cisterns for landscape irrigation.

Reducing Energy Consumption

Buildings have the potential to reach energy efficiency levels exceeding far beyond California Title 24 standards, yet most only strive to meet the standard due to upfront costs.

Passive design strategies can dramatically affect building energy performance. These measures include window placement, building placement and orientation, passive solar design, and the use of natural lighting. By orienting a building toward the south(running it east-west), and creating significant southern exposure , you can take advantage of the sun's energy to heat a building in the winter. When sunlight hits a buildings mass or enters through the windows it passively heats the building and the air inside by not using mechanical means such as solar panels.

Install high-efficiency lighting systems with advanced lighting controls. Include motion sensors tied to dimmable lighting controls. Task lighting reduces general overhead light levels.

Use a properly sized and energy-efficient heat/cooling system in conjunction with a thermally efficient building shell. Maximize light colors for roofing and wall finish materials; install high R-value wall and ceiling insulation such as spray-in foam; and use minimal glass on east and west exposures.

Consider alternative energy sources such as photovoltaics and fuel cells that are now available in new products and applications. Geothermal heating and cooling is the most energy efficient and cost effective way to heat and cool your building, and it can take care of all your domestic hot water needs at the same time. Geothermal systems use the heat of the earth underground to heat water that is in turn used to heat the building, or in the summer to dump the heat from a building underground to cool it.

Material effectiveness

Select sustainable construction materials and products by evaluating several characteristics such as reused and recycled content, zero or low off gassing of harmful air emissions, zero or low toxicity, sustainably harvested materials, high recyclability, durability, longevity, and local production.

Water Efficiency

It is fairly easy to implement simple systems for recycling and reusing water on your own property, drastically decreasing the demands on shared supplies, and in turn, reducing your water bill.

Design for dual plumbing to use recycled water for toilet flushing or a gray water system that recovers rainwater or other nonpotable water for site irrigation.

Minimize wastewater by using ultra low-flush toilets, low-flow shower heads, and other water conserving fixtures. Use re-circulating systems for centralized hot water distribution and install point-of-use hot water heating systems for more distant locations.

Kenneth Wittels is a successful Engineer and Building Designer, primarily focused on structural design of homes in mountainous areas with heavy snow loading and seismic concerns. To view more projects related to this subject visit:

http://homecustomplans.com

Using Wind Energy to Protect the Earth & Save Money

Wind power can be used for many purposes, but more commonly it is used for electricity generation. In the ancient times, wind power was used to propel sail boats and ships, was used to pump water and grind grains using the windmill. It's the easiest form renewable energy available today. It's also pollutant free.

There are many different ways for wind energy to be used, but today it's mainly used for electricity generation. The reason why it is so common is because it's both good for the environment and helps to save money. These devices are used to convert the kinetic energy of the wind into mechanical energy. The turbines are rotated using the wind energy, which is connected to a dynamo which produces electricity. This is the basic working of the windmill for producing electricity.

The main factor for producing electricity from windmills is the speed of the wind. This determines the rotation speed of the turbine, which in turn gives the amount of electricity produced. The windmill power station does not have consistent output power due to the fact the wind speed is not constant all the time. Due to this latest technologies have to be used to setup wind farms in those areas that have the highest constant wind speed. The Rayleigh model can be used to determine the hourly wind speeds at a location.

Electricity produced is normally feed into national electric power transmission grid. The individual turbines are interconnected with each other through medium voltage power collection system and communication network. This voltage is stepped up to higher voltage using a transformer at a substation and transferred.

Individuals can reduce their dependence on either diesel power sources or power grid for electricity for the domestic purpose by using small scale wind power. It's a set of system which generates up to 50 kW of power. This can be purchased by individuals to reduce their carbon footprint.

Wind power is definitely a great renewable energy source, and if you are still not making your own electricity using this technology, then you are wasting time and money. It's easy to make a windmill, and with relevant instructions you don't even need any experience. Click here to find out more about how to get started.

To Reuse Or to Recycle?

Recycling comes with hidden costs. Sometimes those costs are higher than you think. On nearly every level of government from the federal all the way down to local, there is usually some form of recycling law or mandate. Several states, in fact, have gone as far as to require home recycling. But, as people become more educated with our collective impact on the environment, are we continuing to put an undue emphasis on recycling at the detriment of the other two modern recycling rudiments? Are we recycling when we should instead be reducing or simply reusing?

It would be foolish to claim that recycling is not an important part of the collective good that is conservation. Without the established recycling infrastructure, millions of tons of otherwise reusable materials would end up being buried in landfills or incinerated away to ash. If that number, millions of tons, sounds a little large, here's a smaller sample for you. In the 2005-2006 school year (the most recent available) Tufts University recycled 737 tons of cardboard and paper and 132 tons of bottles and cans. The reduction from one university is a good means to show how recycling collectively can have a dramatic reduction in the total amount of waste. Not too shabby.

Or is it? Yes, millions of tons of what would otherwise be refuse have been diverted from landfills around the nation. And judging from a quick walk down the paper isle of your local office supply store, a fair share of materials are making their way back to the market. And the use of recycled materials helps qualify somewhat for that second environmental pillar, "reuse." Somewhat, but perhaps not enough.

Let's take a look at the recycling process for your average aluminum can. After your can is picked up from either your curbside bin or the local disposal center, that can is handed off down a supply chain that varies in length based on bidders and geographical conditions. At some point, last night's can is ground up or shredded into chips. Those chips and grinds are then smelted down into molten metal and then formed into either bars or ingots that can be resold. Frequently these materials come back to us in the form of new parts of larger devices or new soda cans.

As you can see, the process from old aluminum can to new aluminum can involves a great deal of transportation and processing. While the volume of materials being transported at once can reduce the overall carbon burden of the process, the sheer act of recycling can have an unforeseen negative impact on the environment like increasing the dependence on ethanol has on the price of food. This causes one to think of the environmental savings of using an item constructed with post-production content not only in the initial resources it saved, but also in the energy and carbon that were otherwise expended to save the resources.

When small, easy to break down items like cans and newspapers are recycled and the materials are reused, the energy and carbon expenditures are relatively small due to the sheer volume of the materials. But what about larger items like computers, refrigerators, or cars? The resources required in collecting, moving, and breaking these devices down into raw materials that can be smelted and then reused is both intensive and costly, so much so that it's rarely done.

Thankfully, this is one instance where probability wins out. When an aluminum can is empty, the point of failure is obvious. When a fridge or car is considered junk, failure isn't always so certain. Large, complex devices have a multitude of parts, any number of which could have been the reason for failure. What didn't cause the failure, however, is likely to still be usable. As these large devices are built on the Ford concept of interchangeable parts, there is likely a built-in market for that part. What's more, these parts are premade, so once they are cleaned up and quality inspected, they are essentially ready to be resold, all without the resource and energy expenditures required to return these items to refined materials and then remanufacture them.

The lesson seems to be that going green is not as simple as the phrase "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle" makes it out to be. Recycling has its own inherent costs, and what makes sense for cans does not necessarily make sense for cars. Sometimes, it's reuse before recycle.

For all your used auto parts and used transmissions needs consider the leader in parts, customer service and environmental concerns http://www.everdrive.com

Build Solar Panels on Your Home - Solar Panels, Savings You Can Count

There has been a lot of people wanting to know how to build solar panels recently. As we've all seen in the past couple of years, the price of energy is skyrocketing, especially with oil prices reaching record levels almost every week. This economic pressure has begun to show itself as interest in building solar panels has also increased. To tell you the truth, learning how to build solar panels is not difficult at all.

There are two types of solar panels that are commonly used in residential areas, the solar hot water heating panel and the photovoltaic, electricity producing panel.

The purpose of this article is to discuss the photovoltaic type of panel. Solar hot water panels can greatly reduce the amount of energy your household needs by taking care of your water heating needs. Although they are outside the scope of this piece, it goes without saying that if your household uses less electricity, the smaller (and cheaper) your photovoltaic array will need to be.

The easiest way to experience how to build solar panels is to buy a kit which will have all of the materials you need and tools to assemble the panel(s). The usual set-up for photovoltaic includes solar cells, tabs to connect them, solder and flux to adhere the tabs and a soldering iron to melt the solder and hold it all together.

First, choose a site for the panel with a good exposure to as much of the sun's arc in the sky as you can without any interference from branches or wires and away from or above trees and buildings in your yard. If you can't use your rooftop, consider placing the panels on a mount, either a pole or a frame that will lift the panels about six feet or so off the ground. At this height, they will be less likely to be damaged by children, pets or other accidents like a small rock thrown from a lawn mower.

Build the solar panel by connecting a number of solar cells to one another (the amount varies by the size of your panel) in series by using the solder, flux and tabs. The amount of electricity you wish to generate will dictate the size and number of panels you need to put together.

There are many reasons to consider building solar panels and not just because its cheaper than buying them pre-made. There are loads of 'feel-good reasons' as well:

• You can involve the whole family.
• Take pride of knowing you are part of the solution to global warming.
• Know that you can build solar panels for others.
• Reduce your electricity bill every month.
• Reduce your carbon footprint.
• You reduce the need for building new fossil fuel burning power plants.
• And, because you can build a larger array by doing the panel building yourself, you can create more energy than you use and get paid by your utility company (in some states).

Place the panel(s) in position and hook the whole thing up to your battery system, if your using one. Your batteries will collect any excess energy that you are not using for future, whether it is later in the day or even weeks from now.

Why is a battery system optional? There are many programs available where you tie directly into the grid and sell any excess power back to the utility as it is generated. This varies by locality. The positive aspect to this type of system is eliminating the need, expense and hassle of a bank of batteries but the negative is that you have no store of energy should the power go out.

Check with your local energy provider and state energy department because you should be able to sell all your excess energy back to the utility company. Some states have excellent rebates and programs set up just for this. This varies by locality.

With a large enough array (which you don't have to do all at once) and smart, energy efficient choices around the house, you could be running your solar panels at a profit every day.

A friend of mine on Long Island, NY, discovered that the new solar panels on his roof will recoup their costs in less than 18 months, not the three to seven years it was projected. When you think how cloudy the northeast U.S. is, that's a great deal.

Get the information you need to do solar right. Avoid costly mistakes with your solar energy system. Visit SolarPanelsForHomeUse.com for all the information you need in setting up your solar panel array.

Save Energy and Money by Closing Unused Rooms

Energy costs are skyrocketing, and people are searching for ways to stretch their budgets to cover heating and electricity in these winter months. Besides turning down the thermostat and increasing insulation, reducing the amount of heat or energy you use by closing up unused or unnecessary rooms can save you a lot of money on your monthly bills.

Close Up Unused Rooms - Registers

All registers in an unused room should be closed and covered to reduce energy costs and reduce waste. Be sure to do the same thing to air vents or registers that both push air into the room and take it out. Baseboard heaters can also be turned off and covered, though this is a bit more difficult. All registers in an unused room should be closed and covered to reduce energy costs and reduce waste To safely cover registers and air vents, first be sure to close them completely. There are commercial register covers that can be used. Some are more complex things you screw into the wall, but there are also magnetic sheets that can be attached directly to the metal fixture.

Close Up Unused Rooms - Windows and Doors

All windows and doors in the unused room should be closed and sealed against any drafts or leaks. Use storm windows on every window in the room. Make sure weather-stripping is in place and has no breaks or gaps.

You can purchase plastic sheeting, Styrofoam, or even use old blankets or heavy drapes to further insulate the windows. Attach these with a heavy-duty staple gun or other secure fastening to all edges of the windows or doors inside. This will reduce leaks and lower the energy requirements of the house.

Close up Unused Rooms - Electricity

There is no need to use electricity at all in an unused room in your house. Not only should you obviously turn off all appliances, light fixtures, and other electronic equipment, you should unplug it as well. If your house has multiple circuits or fuses, you can even disable the electricity to the unused rooms. This will prevent any electricity 'leak' that will result in very small losses that will show up on your bill. Anything you can do to reduce energy consumption is good for both the environment and your wallet.

Closing up unused rooms is an excellent way to save money and energy on your home heating costs this winter. Always be mindful of how to reduce consumption, and then take steps to further insulate or isolate those areas of the house that are not in use.

Beat the bad economy and save hundreds each month with the frugal tips at Save Money Frugal Tips.

People Are Energy Vampires

With the current focus on and attention being given to information technology these days, it has become very easy to discount or overlook completely the important role that humans play in business. This factor is the key to having any organization run smoothly, and this is true of energy management as well. Whether energy resources are used effectively or wasted rests entirely with them.

This statement was proved to be accurate when the United States Department of Energy commissioned a study to determine the effectiveness of the Institutional Conservation Program. The results were very interesting, to say the least: up to 80 percent of savings in an energy management program were directly attributed to the actions of the organization's Operations and Maintenance staff. When trying to get a handle on energy costs, many organizations focus on bringing in more energy-efficient equipment instead of the human part of achieving energy savings. In fact, only about 20 percent of energy savings came from installing updated equipment.

As you can see, this human influence can be considered the most important aspect of energy management. The attitudes and actions of top managers set the tone for the rest of the organization, but they need to have access to accurate information and in a timely manner. Everyone in the organization, no matter what their function is, has a role to play in helping to keep energy costs down.

People are Key

The 1973 oil embargo taught all of us a lot about the people factor with regard to an energy program. In the past, this knowledge hasn't been effectively used to improve energy management programs, unfortunately. Here are a few examples for you to consider that will underscore this fact:

When a traditional energy audit is conducted, it is written with the underlying understanding that conditions will stay the same for the lifetime of the equipment or the project in question. The part that humans play in energy conservation efforts is simply not factored in. Since we now know that the actions of humans is responsible for the bulk of energy savings, it doesn't make sense to ignore this essential part of the formula.

Another interesting fact that has come to light in recent years is that poor maintenance is the main cause of indoor air quality issues. No doubt this can be attributed to the fact that it is very common for organizations to cut the maintenance budget when utility costs are on the rise.

When energy costs are up, then the organization decides to make cuts to its operations and maintenance budget, which ends up having the opposite effect than what the administration really wants. The whole thing turns into a vicious cycle of higher utility bill, which leads to more cuts, and which leads to a higher level of energy consumption. At the same time, the indoor air quality of the organization's premises declines.

Matthew Shields

Energy Expert

Keys To Replacing Old Doors And Windows

Several businesses around the Irvine region offer a complete service for doors and windows at competitive prices. However, deciding which company to go with is a little more difficult. Homeowners who have decided to replace their existing doors and windows with a more energy-efficient glass should take many issues into consideration when deciding on which company to use.

Many companies in the Irvine region will offer excellent prices on the replacement of doors and windows. However, many of these companies will use inferior materials to save money. Many homeowners may be tempted to use these companies solely based on price, but cutting corners when it comes to your doors and windows will end up costing you in the long run.

Choosing the right doors and windows to complete your renovation of your home is an important first step. Energy efficient windows and doors can keep out the heat or cold weather. When doors and windows are built with inferior quality materials, they are not able to keep out all of the inclement weather, making it necessary to run the heater or air conditioning longer during the day. Energy efficient windows can, for example, keep the heat of direct sunlight from transferring into your home, keep the cold wind during winter out.

In the Irvine region, the heat of summer can often bring people's electricity bills into the hundreds of dollars per month. However, with a small investment, you can buy doors and windows that will lower your bills and give you a few hundred dollars per year in savings. This type of investment will pay for itself over just a few years, making it indispensable for any Irvine homeowner to replace their decaying doors and windows.

Accompany your new doors and windows with new technology that keeps your home energy efficient by lowering the amount of heat lost through the roof. By using modern insulation, homeowners can save significantly on their heating bills during the winter.

So when it comes time to remodel your home, don't just look for the company that offers you the cheapest price to replace your windows and doors. Rather, look for a company that uses the best materials and modern glass technologies to give you the greatest savings in the future. A few extra dollars in your original investment to remodel your home will reap benefits immediately as you begin to realize incredible savings on your electricity and gas bill.

Need more on windows and doors? Cal Windows and Doors specializes in bringing you information about the best such as Peachtree Windows and Doors and other high-quality companies. Learn how to prepare your home for sale with upgraded windows and doors and other great tips on how to get beautiful windows for your home.

Our Future Energy Sources

Although renewable sources should also be used, Nuclear energy should be top priority. It's widely used in Europe, why not here? We haven't built a nuclear plant in over thirty years. Yes, environmental concerns are important, but so is energy independence. If nuclear energy provided all our electricity needs, we could use coal to make oil. It's been done in South Africa since the seventies. And using sugarcane to make Ethanol, like they do in Brazil, would be a great boost for Florida's sugar industry. In a couple of years, the Chevrolet Volt electric car from General Motors, will go on sale. Although it uses a small gasoline engine, it's used only to recharge the electric motor, which powers the driving wheels. Nissan will also debut it's electric car about the same time, which is being made in cooperation with French affiliate Renault. They can go for about 125 miles on a charge.

Israel is already building a network of electric car recharging stations. They will be like an enclosed car wash. You drive in and immediately the spent batteries are replaced or recharged. They have ordered about 500 of the Renault-Nissan electric cars. Many other countries will be watching the Israel's example closely. The biodiesel-electric hybrid bus is already in use by the Miami Transit Authority, and by the city of Bradenton, on Florida's gulf coast.

Honda has a natural gas powered car, it's being test-marketed in a few cities. There is plenty of natural gas in the western United States. BMW is testing a gasoline-hydrogen hybrid car. About ten of them are being tested in the United States. A button on the steering wheel switches from gasoline to hydrogen. There is also a hydrogen powered Volkswagen touring the USA, it's visited about eighteen states so far. Hydrogen would require all new infrastructure to make it viable. This alone, plus the public's perception of hydrogen as being dangerous, means it's well behind the electric car.

Whenever I see an oil tanker in Tampa Bay, I imagine a big oil spill creating a great disaster for our area.

What Are Cooling Towers?

What exactly are cooling towers anyway? They are heat rejection devices used to extract waste heat into the air from the cooling of a water stream to a lesser temperature. They are also referred to evaporate heat rejection devices. These devices provide lower water temperatures than an air cooled or heat rejection devices.

Cooling towers are used in air conditioning, electric power generation and in various manufacturing facilities. They can be referred to both open circuit and closed circuit heat rejection equipment.

Small cooling towers are designed to handle only a few gallons of water per minute, which is supplied by small pipes. The large towers cool hundreds of thousands of gallons of water per minute. The pipes supplying the water are up to fifteen feet in diameter. These are found in large power plants.

There are several different types of cooling towers. One such type is the mechanical-draft cooling towers. They rely on power driven fans that draw or force the air through the specific tower.

Another type of cooling tower is the natural draft-cooling tower. It uses buoyancy of exhaust air rising in a chimney to provide the needed draft for cooling. Another type is the fan-assisted natural draft tower uses a mechanical draft to expand the buoyancy.

In the past, they relied on the prevailing winds to get the air drafts needed for cooling.

Cooling towers can emit a lot of noise. Things that cause the noise include the sound of water falling, the sound of large fans along with motors and drive belts as well.

Many terms are associated with water coolers. We will briefly go over a few of them. Leaching refers a loss of wood preservative chemicals caused by the washing action of flowing water through a wooden cooling tower. A plume is a stream of exhaust leaving the tower.

Blowouts are water droplets that are blown out of the cooling towers with the exhaust air that is blown out.

There is more to learn about cooling towers, so please visit our website today.

Your guide to everything you have ever wanted to know about a cooling towers and heat exchangers. We also provide information on various types and brands of heat exchangers. Visit our site today!

http://www.theheatexchangers.com

By D. Karlson

Use Solar Power at Home to Reduce Or Eliminate Electricity Bills

There are a lot of family expenses every month and few of them are really necessary, among which your electricity bill is one of the largest. Electricity is used in our lives in each and every step of our day such as cleaning, cooking, heating, lights, your computer and TV, etc. the demand is increasing and the supply is dwindling so, naturally, the price of the electricity is very much on the rise. In order to cut down our burden we must take the initiative to cut down on our costs. The solution is fairly simple, either you lower down your electricity consumption or you begin to use alternative energy sources such as solar panels which will allow you to harness the energy from the sun for free.

Traditionally installing solar panels is quite costly for initial startup however there is a far cheaper option currently available; this is to simply do-it-yourself.

Substituting your current household electricity with that produced by solar panels is not nearly as tough as many people seem to think, rather it is fairly simple. All that you really need to do is to make the solar array containing a number of solar cells on a surface which should face the sun for the longest period of the day in order to maximize the energy that you are able to harness. Generally your rooftop is the best location as it gets sun all day long without being in shadows. This energy later can be put in your battery bank to be used during night or even entire cloudy days. Your battery can only hold DC power, so your next step is to get a DC to AC converter in order to run your household appliances off of your free energy generated from the sun.

The cheapest option for installing solar panels is to go with DIY Solar Panel Instructions which include detailed instructions, step-by-step video walk-throughs and even locations to get all of your materials as cheap as possible.

With DIY solar panel instructions you can be living off the grid, on free solar energy, for as little as a $200 start up cost. Start saving money and the environment today, what are you waiting for?

Getting Solar Power For Homes - Find Out How

Have you been thinking about getting solar power for your home? Does the idea of powering your home with the rays of the sun interest you? If so, then you'll be glad to know that you many options. No matter what kind of budget you're on, there are affordable solutions that will match your specific needs.

You could always go out and purchase solar panels, but you can save a lot of money if you make your own. Even if your budget is tight, you can still afford all the materials necessary for building solar panels. You can either build from scratch or buy solar panel kits. The kits will have the components needed and all you'll have to do is assemble them. Either way, getting solar power for homes can be very affordable.

While solar power is becoming increasingly popular in rural neighborhoods, those living in urban areas still have options. If you live in an apartment complex in the city, you still may able to place a small solar panel on your roof or patio. You can also ask your electric company if they have any options for customers interested in solar energy. It's becoming more common for cities to offer residents solar generated power through grids. See if that's an option in your area.

No matter where you live, you should consider getting solar power for your home. Not only will you be doing your part in helping the environment, but you'll be saving a lot of money too. While energy sources from the earth are limited and nonrenewable, there will always be a sun. And as long as there's a sun, there will be solar power.

Earth4Energy will teach you everything you need to know about getting solar power for homes. You can learn how to store FREE solar power that you can use anytime you want. Earth4Energy will also help you to understand your options better through informative guides, illustrations, video tutorials, and more.

About the author:

Nadav Snir is a chemistry and physics student who studies energy and ways of convservation. To find out more about energy saving and Earth4Energy, visit his site: http://Great-Info-Products.com/WaterForGas/earth4energy.html

Fuel and Other Energy Prices Will Soar Again

If you think you've seen the last of high gasoline prices, you are due a reality check. Gasoline and diesel fuel are made from a scarce commodity called crude oil that only a few countries have an abundance of, and the truth is, even they are starting to see a decline in production. Places like Saudi Arabia and Russia have the largest reserves, along with Iraq, Iran, and a few African nations.

These reserves are like a huge sword held above the necks of the rich industrialized nations like the U.S. and western Europe and, let`s face it, those countries don`t constitute a list of friends to the industrialized world. Russia has been an arch enemy for a century, but they need our money badly so they will continue to sell crude to the west for the foreseeable future. The Muslim countries, on the other hand, could cut off supplies at any time and still have vast financial resources to hold them over. These unfriendly nations, most notably Saudi Arabia, hate us with a burning religeous passion, but fear our military might, so they pretend to be friends, while biding their time and waiting for just the right moment to shut off the pump.

There is an abundance of coal, especially in the U.S., but it is an extremely dirty fuel and the technology to turn it into fuel that will run our cars and trucks does not yet exist, so, for the meantime, it will continue to be used to run our power plants, and those plants will continue to pump millions of tons of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere yearly, which is the #1 cause of global warming. Emerging industrialization in India and China has led to rampant use of fossil fuels to power their growing economies, with no constraints put on the amount of pollution released to the air, thus, scenes such as the constant brown pall over Beijing, brought to the attention of the world by western news people during the recent Olympic Games. This pollution effects the entire world, as wind currents carry it to every part of the planet, and is being breathed in by all six-and-a-half billion of us, while trapping the sun`s heat and causing global warming.

To learn more about the effects of global warming and how you can reduce your carbon footprint drastically while saving many thousands of dollars, visit my blog: http://TeeMike.wordpress.com

The New Trend in Residential Metal Roofing

You've seen steel roofs on barns, but how often have you seen them on residential property? It's very likely you'll be seeing them a whole lot more around the country. With wildfires, hurricanes, hail and other extreme conditions damaging houses, an increasing number of homeowners are taking advantage of the benefits of metal roofing.

Steel roof installations have more than doubled in the last five years and will continue to grow 15 percent per year, according to the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA). There is no material more capable of protecting a home from destructive weather conditions.

Benefits of Metal Roofing

Durability

A metal roof will last at least two to three times longer than an asphalt roof, or 40 to 60 years. In the warm, humid Southern states, metal is virtually immune to the unsightly mildew stains that often form on asphalt shingles. Properly installed, a metal roof won't leak or rust and can withstand wind gusts up to 140 miles per hour.

Shane Scott, a real-estate entrepreneur from LaGrange, Georgia, renovates and resells older homes. He installed a metal roof for his own home in 2000 and was so pleased with it he's purchased metal roofs for all the homes he's refurbished since then.

"When buyers are considering a home, they're always concerned about the condition of the roof," notes Scott. "With metal, they know they won't need to do anything to it for at least 50 years. With an asphalt roof, they'll need to replace it within 15 to 20 years."

Protection

Most metal roof systems have passed UL 2218 Impact Resistance testing at its most severe level, Class IV. As a result, homeowners in hail-prone states who choose metal roofing may be eligible for discounts on their insurance premiums.

Ed Parker, a retired homeowner from Sharpsburg, Georgia agrees. "We've gone through two or three asphalt roofs on our home over the years and they discolor and rip off during wind storms, or leak due to hail storms," Parker said. "Metal is much more durable."

Environmentally Friendly

The National Association of Homebuilders Research Center estimates that 20 billion pounds of asphalt roofing is taken to landfills every year. Metal's longevity removes the need for frequent roof replacements. Better still, it can be laid over the current roof, eliminating the costs of shingle removal and land-fill fees. If a metal roof is ever removed, it can be recycled.
Steel is the best choice for "green" buildings, where the goal is to reduce or eliminate chemical substances, according to the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Unlike wooden shakes or some other traditional materials, steel is not vulnerable to insects, mold or rot. Therefore, it does not require the application of insecticides or other hazardous chemicals.

Energy Efficient

Time-tested metal roofs save energy and reduce your cooling costs by as much as 40 percent, depending on location, says the MRA. The advent of new reflective paints with energy-saving properties has revolutionized the residential roofing industry.

While asphalt and cedar shingles absorb heat, the new cool pigment technology can reflect up to 85 percent of the sun's radiant energy. Now, even dark colors achieve the "cool" attributes. An Energy Star roof can stay up to 100 degrees cooler on its surface than other roofs, so less heat is transferred into the building.

Wilmer Dykes, a homeowner from Cochran, Georgia, noticed a decrease in his energy bill of at least 25 percent after installing his metal roof. Dykes believes keeping his old roof on his home helped save energy. "By building the new metal roof over it, we created an air pocket between the two roofs, giving us an added layer of insulation," he said.

Low Maintenance

A metal roof won't crack, curl, split, rot or lose impact resistance with age. The only maintenance recommended for a metal roof is an annual inspection, clearing the roof of accumulated leaves or other debris and checking roof top ancillaries and air conditioners to ensure that they are properly drained and supported.

Tax and Insurance Savings

The U.S. Energy Policy Act of 2005 allows for a tax credit for homeowners who install qualified energy-efficient improvements to an existing home, including metal roofs that meet the Energy Star program requirements.

Aesthetics

For some, a stigma still remains from the old, ugly metal barn roofs. However, a host of new colors, finishes and profiles has drastically improved the look over the last 10 years.

Don Smith, another homeowner from Cochran, said that aesthetics was one of the most important factors in his decision to purchase a metal roof. "I had seen steel roofs in the high-end subdivisions and really liked the look," he said. "Now, strangers stop in my driveway and ask me questions about my roof because they like the look of it too.

Casey Paulk, owner of Paulk Landscaping serving central Georgia, agrees. "In my business, I see a ton of homes, so I'm always comparing, contrasting and making mental notes," he said. "When I built my new home, I did a lot of research. I decided to go with a metal roof primarily for the aesthetics - I love the way metal looks."

Be Wary of Your Warranty

Finding a warranty that offers complete protection is harder than most consumers realize, says Clay Smith, owner of Mid-GA Steel and Supply, headquartered in Grantville, Georgia. "There is no way to tell if two metals lying side by side have any difference in quality," he said. "Unscrupulous manufacturers can make 25-year warranty claims for cheap metal that actually has just a five year life before fading."

Because of this risk, it's important to find a manufacturer that puts its steel vendors' coil numbers on their warranties, which connects the buyer with the vendor and the exact metal purchased. "This will ensure that the warranty will be fully honored throughout its duration," Smith said. "Without the coil number on your warranty, you have no protection, regardless of what your warranty might imply."

A Long-Term Investment

Often one of the barriers to purchasing a metal roof is the cost, which is two to three times that of a shingle roof. However, buyers who realize a metal roof is a one-time investment versus an ongoing, life-long expense understand the considerable value it offers.

Asphalt roofs typically need to be replaced approximately every 15 years due to deterioration. Conversely, a metal roof is a permanent, extremely low-maintenance roof. "Although the up-front costs are considerably more than an asphalt roof, over the long term the durability of a metal roof makes it well worth it," said Mr. Paulk.

The Final Solution

The rapid increase in the number of metal roofs nationwide will likely continue to intensify, as consumers better understand the durability and both the short and long-term savings metal roofs offer. Add to that the beauty of metal roofs seen in their own neighborhoods, and it's easy to understand the surge in growth. The market is ripe; as baby boomers pay off their homes and settle into retirement, they are looking for a roof solution that lasts a lifetime.

Debbie Brucks is a freelance writer living in Peachtree City, GA. Her email address is dabrucks@aol.com

For more information, go to http://www.energystar.gov

Unplug Small Appliances - Save Money and Energy

We were toasting bagels one morning when my sister was in town. As we all sat around the table to enjoy our breakfast, she mentioned to me that I should unplug my toaster oven since we weren't using it anymore. My response was, "I turned it off, it's OK."

No, it isn't OK. What I didn't understand then that I know now is that small appliances and electronics still draw electricity when they're plugged in - even if the power button is turned off. Common sense says if these items are drawing power when we're not using them, why keep them plugged in?

Exactly.

The biggest energy-drainers even when they are turned off are microwave ovens, televisions, DVD players, computers, game systems, and cable and satellite TV boxes. A good solution for these items is to plug several devices into a power strip that has an on/off switch. When you flick the switch off, the power strip no longer draws electricity from the outlet.

There are many reasons to keep your appliances and electronics unplugged when you're not using them. First and foremost, it is the responsible thing to do for the environment. Just think how good it will feel as you're unplugging your cell phone charger that you're doing something good for the environment today! It's a very simple and easy thing that EVERYONE can do. Imagine if everyone in your city decided to do this one small thing how much energy we could save? How about your state? The world?

Another main reason is the reduction in your electric bill. When my sister told me that she was saving $15 - $20 each month by unplugging her microwave, cell phone charger, and her TV my first thought was "yeah right - it can't be that much". Others might say that's not enough of a savings to even bother with. Oh really? Twenty dollars per month is $240 per year in savings. I can think of plenty of things I'd rather do with $240 than give it to the electric company for something I didn't use anyway.

The truth is that if you have 10 items in your home that are plugged in and not in use, you could be wasting as much as 450,000 watts (or 4,500 kilowatts) of electricity per year! Depending on your usage and local electricity rates, that could cost you anywhere between $200 and $600 each year! Also, most utility companies charge a higher rate when you use more than a certain amount of energy, and they also charge more during summer months when electric use is higher, so that becomes an even bigger savings when you keep your electronics unplugged.

So now I understand what my sister was talking about when she told me to unplug my toaster oven. Everything stays unplugged in my house now unless it's being used. I am happy to say that my electric bill has been reduced by a little more than $20 each month, but even prouder to say that I am doing something good for the environment today.

For more information on how to conserve energy and your utility bill, please visit my Go Green! Tips page at http://www.OurGreenEarthProducts.com

L Robinson

http://www.OurGreenEarthProducts.com

info@ourgreenearthproducts.com

Home Solar Power - The No Fail Secrets of Saving Money by Generating Your Own Power

With the rise in fuel prices, the need for home solar has given rise to increased dependency in terms of a suitable alternative source of energy. While home solar is often considered as a suitable option to cover your basic energy requirements, you need to fully understand that home solar is an energy source that needs to be procured and installed with utmost care. Taking cue from the above statement, let us discuss some secrets which are sure to succeed in terms of power saving.

Choose A Well Known Product

Even before you start to indulge in electricity generation, you need to ensure that the solar energy source which you have sought is from the best possible place. At the same time, you need to also make sure that your place of procurement has been acclaimed and assured by various other customers as well. It is best to go with tried and tested techniques.

Make Sure It Is Cost Effective

The second method to ensuring that your natural source of energy is picture perfect is to use it in accordance to your requirements. At the same time, you need to also ensure that your energy source is cost effective in nature. If in case it is expensive, you may need to choose a different product.

Kindly Cross check The Quality

The third step to ensuring that your solar powered electric grid is feasible is by checking its quality. If it is ideal in terms of quality, you can be rest assured that the purchase is ideal and vice verse.

Hi, I am Mark Morris and I am an energy conservationist. I have a secret to share.

The Recommendation: To adopt a widely approved Solar Energy Program, which allows you to permanently get rid of your recurring electric bills. It has helped COUNTLESS people worldwide-it is now your turn.

Who Is It For: Folks who are tired of polluting power programs and have lost thousands of dollars on wasted power bills. It is for any and everyone who wishes to see instant results and save money.

How To Get There: Simply click http://purelyfitness.com/earth4energy-review and join the successful campaign to save our environment from further pollution.

Using Sun Energy to Save Money on Energy and Put More Cash in Your Pocket

Do you know that by using sun energy you can save money on energy bills by an astronomical 80% per month? Think I'm kidding? Read on and learn why using solar power can put more money in your pocket than you would have ever imagine.

The Frugal Nature of Using Sun Energy

If you're one of those people that has to tighten their belts due to the high cost of energy, but most likely youon the hunt for ways to save money on energy -- immediately. Among the ripe alternative energy sources like nuclear, ethanol, bio diesel and solar, solar energy is currently the most readily available and of the most promising for the new technology that will be standard in the next decade. This is one of the best times to get started on trying to save money on energy by putting up a solar panel and what's great about solar panels now is that build your OWN.

How You Can Save Money on Energy by Creating Your Own Alternative Energy Source

We all know that depending on oil from other nations can be very costly and expensive, especially at the rate that we consume energy at the current moment. Some of them later, energy availability will draw down and this could mean disastrous effects for the world economy. Using sun energy for heating up your home can be one of the most cost-effective ways to combat this rising price of energy that has no end in sight. You can nearly wipe away your entire utility costs or at least cut it by 80%. You can construct your own solar energy panel yourself for just under $200 like I did and save money on energy like you never thought possible. If you're among those that are concerned about the environmental health of our earth and want alternative energy to begin working for you, then consider using sun energy and doing it by creating your very own home solar energy.

For in-depth detail on the advantages of using solar energy and access to a step-by-step guide to building your own solar energy panel for less than $200 you can visit my website here at http://www.CreateHomeEnergyNow.webs.com. Remember -- go green!

Energy Performance Certificates - Are They a Waste of Energy?

When EPC's were first launched for HIPS, many people in the Property Industry were of the mind that:
a) they are pointless and purchaser's or tenants won't look at them
b) just another hassle for Estate Agents, Vendors and Landlords to get over and
c) adding more cost the Homeowner.

Of course, this is only my opinion however, I would suggest that these thoughts are shared by at least half the UK population!

What are EPC's really all about? Do we really understand what the Government is trying to achieve. The answer I guess would be... no.

Direct.gov.uk states that "Buildings produce nearly half of the UK's carbon emissions! That's almost twice that of cars and planes. The way a building is constructed, insulated, heated, ventilated and the type of fuel used, all contribute to its carbon emissions."

If you think about it from a global perspective, the daunting facts about global warming is a serious issue and it is about time someone starts to act on it! Having done a little research into our current climate changes, my opinions about EPC's have changed, or at least, I try to see them from a different perspective.

The only difficulty now, is trying to change the perception of the Industry to actually act on the EPC's rather than seeing then as another "Tick in the Box" when renting a property.

A couple of facts regarding EPC's:

Energy Performance Certificates (EPC) are now considered mandatory for all property to rent as from the 1st October 2008.

The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) was introduced to provide Landlords with property to let, Home Owners, Tenants and Buyers of property with information relating to the energy efficiency of a property. The property will be graded on its standard energy and carbon emission efficiency and will receive an energy rating grade from 'A' - the most efficient through to 'G'. A grading of 'D' will be an average rating.

What do EPC's mean for Landlords?

Landlords will be able to make changes to the property to let based on the recommendations of the EPC report. The report will include information for the Landlord such as:

suggested improvements (such as fitting loft insulation)
the approximate cost of such improvements
possible cost savings per year if the improvements are made
how this would change the energy and carbon emission rating of the property

Landlords can use this information to:

Encourage Tenants to rent property based on potentially lower fuel costs
Cut your own fuel costs or standing charges for vacant properties
Improve energy performance in your house or flat to rent
Help cut carbon emissions from your property

Landlords are not required to act on the recommendations suggested from the report however, in order to promote the attractiveness of a property to let, a more energy efficient property should encourage price conscious tenants to make further enquiries.

All Landlords who rent property will be required to make the EPC available to prospective tenants the first time you let a property after the 1st of October 2008.

An EPC is only required for a property which is self-contained, and will be valid for 10 years.

An EPC is not required when a tenant rents a room and shares facilities.

What do EPC's mean for Tenants?

The energy efficiency of a property to let is measured by using the same calculations for all homes, houses and flats to rent. This allows Tenants to make an informed decision when they come to selecting a property to rent. A higher energy efficient property may be cheaper to run when calculating the cost of heating and fuel bills.

As a tenant, if you are interested in renting a property then an EPC must be made available to you free of charge by either the Landlord or the Letting Agent.

An EPC is only required for a rental property which is self-contained, and is valid for 10 years.

An EPC isn't required when you rent a room and share facilities.

Who is required to have an EPC?

The EPC is required by law when a building is constructed, sold or put up for rent.

EPC's only apply to England and Wales. Northern Ireland and Scotland are producing their own regulations.

Jonathan Daines (Jonathan@LettingaProperty.com) is Co - Director of http://www.LettingaProperty.com - a property search portal and information guide dedicated to the letting Industry. Advertising Letting Agents and Private Landlords' Properties to Let to thousands of Tenants every day. Visit http://www.LettingaProperty.com - and start your property search.

Homemade Solar Power Panels - Why You Should Build Your Own Solar Power System

Making your own solar power panels helps you save money on your utility bills by ensuring your alternative energy source is renewable and sustainable over the lifespan of the panels. In addition, you are protecting the environment as solar power does not emit harmful gases into the air in the process.

Contrary to general believe, assembling your solar panel is not as hard as it is made out to be and you do not need special technical skills. In fact, the components are easily bought from the local hardware store and the basic materials you need are very easily found tool kit items. The basic materials are namely plywood, salt, copper wire, sandpaper, metal scissors etc are very common and affordable.

Simply ensure that you have a rooftop which directly faces the sun and with extensive sunlight. Ensure that the angle and location where you place your homemade solar panels are in the position of capturing the optimal amount of sunlight. If you do not have a large sun facing rooftop, use your backyard or garden.

It is important to note that the solar panels absorb and collect the UV wavelengths of the sunlight for conversion into electricity. Hence, the cells are capable of collecting and storing energy, i.e. the UV wavelengths even in cloudy weather. The only difference is that in a sunny day, the solar panels work better and less hard.

At less than 200 dollars to build and install, your homemade solar power systems simply costs about 6 percent of a 3000 dollar professionally ready made panel. Not to mention that this is an initial setup cost will very quickly pay for itself almost in the first month of usage when the electricity cost savings you immediately gained more than off set the setup cost.

You will need a good guidebook for your homemade solar panels system which provides specific instructions and design diagrams. Make sure you choose one with member forums for discussion as well as step by step videos that walk you through the critical steps and you are good to go.

So start reducing your carbon footprint, start building your very own solar panels and Start cutting your utility bills by at least half.

Join the thousands of families tapping on Free Renewable Energy. Visit SolarWindEnergyDIY.com for Your Complete Solar Power Guide Review.

Also Find more information here to Build Your Own Solar Panels and Save 80 percent on Your Electricity Bills.

Energy Efficiency - Cradle to Cradle Recycling with Glass

When discussing green products "cradle to cradle" packaging is often discussed. What does cradle-to-cradle mean? Cradle to Cradle is a phrase coined by Walter R. Stahel in the 1970s, it became popular in 2002 thanks to the book titled Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things written by William McDonough and Michael Braungart.

What is Cradle to Cradle?

According to William McDonough and Michael Braungart, in cradle to cradle production all elements are viewed as either a technical nutrient or a biological nutrient. In their model, cradle to cradle, technical nutrients can be recycled or reused with no loss of quality and the biological nutrients can be either composted or consumed.

Why Glass?

In a world filled with plastic and paper packaging, glass still remains the most readily recyclable container on the market. Unlike other container such as plastic which are " downcycled" from food grade products to lower grades, glass can be recycled an infinite number of times. In cradle to cradle terms glass is compromised of 100% technical nutrients or is 100% recyclable and reusable.

Glass is actually so pure it does not require any additional processing to recycle and it can be used for the packaging of food and beverages again and again. Starting from the time you properly recycle a glass container it is possible the same raw glass can return to your local supermarket shelf in as little as four weeks time.

Choosing Glass Saves Energy

Did you know? Recycling a single glass bottle saves enough energy to power:

• A 60-watt light bulb for four hours
• A Computer for thirty minutes
• A Television for twenty minutes

Consider this, O-I, a large scale glass recycler, recycles over 5 million tons of glass a year. O-I estimates the total amount of energy they save yearly through glass recycling could power the all the streetlights in the New York City metro area for an entire year If our manufacturers offered more glass containers that were in turn properly recycled, what else could we provide power for?

The Importance of Recycling

By recycling your glass containers you save both energy and raw materials. You also prevent the greenhouse gas emissions that would be created when new glass is created from raw materials, as well as reduce landfill waste. Thanks to the purity of glass, 1 ton of recycled glass is equivalent to 1 ton of raw materials to manufacture new glass - there is no loss of materials when properly recycled.

The Dangers of Single-Stream Recycling

While it's clear to many that recycling glass is important to energy conservation efforts, many municipalities are still moving towards "single-stream" recycling. While it is true that single-stream recycling has been shown to boost overall recycling statistics it does not properly separate glass by color, and as such it effectively reduces the cradle to cradle qualities of glass. Unless glass is separated by color it is not being properly recycled.

If you live in an area that only offers single-stream recycling, I encourage you to separate your glass and recycle it yourself. Single-stream recycling is growing in popularity, so there is a good possibility your area has already signed up.

Glass Waste

Understanding how valuable glass in comparison to other packaging material it becomes frightening to consider the amount of glass we simply throw away each year. In the United States, we send more then 11 million tons of glass to landfills each year. That's more than twice what O-I actively recycles each year. To put it into a more personal perspective that about 500 lbs of glass each US citizen simple throws away each year.

Due to its cradle to cradle nature, glass, should be our packaging of choice. While it may be more expensive to transport because of it's weight when in comparison to plastic or paper packaging the infinite lifespan it offers greatly outweighs any short term costs. Recycling isn't just environmentally smart it's also economically sound. According to a study by George Goldman, a UC Cooperative Extension economist, "Recycling generates twice as much income and sales and twice as many jobs as trash disposal." Do your part to fight global warming by first purchasing glass packaged products and then properly recycling them.

Sam Greyhawk is an energy efficiency evangelist working with Cool-N-Save(tm), an Energy Star Partner, based in Huntington Beach, California.

Cool-N-Save(tm) is a brand new air conditioner add-on that can be installed in just 10 minutes with no tools required. In the hottest months, your air conditioner can be responsible for up to 90% of your monthly electrical bill. Cool-N-Save(tm) has been scientifically proven by Tulane University to improve air conditioner efficiency by up to 30% - which translates into real monthly savings for you. Saving energy helps fight global warming and Cool-N-Save(tm) is a cost-effective way to reduce your energy use.

Free Alternative Power

Would you like to learn how you can build systems to generate free alternative power to run your house? Free energy systems can be easily made at home today to generate free green power. Examples of such alternative power systems are wind mills and solar panels. Building them is very easy and can be done for a very low cost by following step by step guides and videos online. They do not emit any harmful chemicals into the environment and thus are great for environmental conservation purposes.

1. How to Generate your Own Free Alternative Power at Home?

The best solution in my opinion would be to construct homemade energy systems like the wind turbine or solar panels on the roof. They can generate electricity as well as the components bought commercially and from my experience, are very reliable and can work for many years with proper maintenance.

2. How Many Windmills Do You Need to Build?

This would depend on several factors like the total energy consumption in your home, the amount of wind around your house as well as the space that have around your house. If your systems generate more electrical power than what is required for your home, you can sell back the excess electricity to the grid company for a profit.

3. Why Don't More People Use Wind Energy to Run Their Homes?

Windmills were very commonly used during the 1930s to 1950 time when people were generally very conscious about the costs of energy. As time passed, people became less concerned about costs as times got better and did not mind paying their power company every month to supply them with electricity. However, with the economy in its current state, it would be wise for people to start making their own free electrical power again.

Want to learn how to create Free Alternative Power? Download the Best Step-By-Step Home Energy Guides at http://www.renewableenergysystemreview.com first!

The author has managed to reduce his energy bill by more than 80% by building his own renewable home energy system. Check out his website above to find out how to do it!

All Natural Energy - 5 Healthy Foods to Eat While On the Go

Have you ever had one of those days where you feel like you are rushed with work, and cant fit lunch in? You are not alone! Everyone has them all the time, and they manage them in their own ways whether it is running to the local cafe, stopping by the vending machine, or not eating at all, however, a lot of people seem to push daily meals aside and make crazy headway on their daily errands. It is very important to not skip meals, so here are five ways to eat healthy while on the go:

1. Go for the fruitIts loaded with nutrients.

Fruit is a hop, skip, and a jump away from eating, say, potato chips or a chocolate bar as a quick snack. Fruit contains natural sugars that give your body raw energy. These raw sugars stimulate your brain and give you the ability to think faster and recall things quicker. Fruit also contains a lot of water. Your body is 80% water so in essence you are feeding your body with what it needs. What I personally like about fruit is that it is loaded with nutrients and is incredibly filling. Try an orange, apple, or banana, as they are great on-the-go fruits that will fill you up and travel well in your bag before you run out the door in the morning.

2. CerealNot just a breakfast food anymore.

While pouring your morning bowl, grab a baggie and throw in some dry cereal for a great late afternoon snack. It is important to note, choose cereals low in sugars like Life, Raisin Bran, Grape Nuts, Cheerios, etc. Dry cereal is low-calorie and is a good source of fiber (look for cereals with over three grams of fiber). Fiber fills you up and can tide you over until dinner time. If possible, select a cereal that is whole-grain as it helps reduce the risk of heart disease.

3. CrackersCant go wrong here.

Crackers, although many might say they are plain, are another great snack to eat on the go before your next appointment. It doesnt matter what kind of crackers you eatwhole grain, multi-grain, graham, or animalall these crackers are healthy for you, in moderation. Dont bring the whole box with you in the car, because if you are like me, the whole box will be gone before I even got home. Like cereal, grab a bag and put five or six crackers in, along with some great cheese (Cabot is my favorite) if you have it. Cheese and crackers is a great pair that provides a balanced snack for the morning or late afternoon.

4. YogurtDont forget the spoon.

Yogurt is a delicious snack that now comes in an array of flavors, with different toppings like granola and crushed Oreos. Try to avoid these toppings, as they are added fat and calories with no real nutritional benefit. Yogurt is great because it has fruit in it and it is loaded with potassium, protein, and calcium. Yogurt is also known to boost your immune system, so if youre sick, grab some yogurt and eat awayits healthy for you!

5. Energy BarsNot all of them are candy bars.

Alot of energy bars out on the market are literally candy barsloaded with fat and unneeded calories. In looking for an energy bar, you should look for one that is all natural, meaning that is has no preservatives, which does mean a shorter shelf-life, however, that means the product is more likely to be fresh. Also, look for energy bars with a lot of protein and fiber, a healthy combination and balanced snack requirement. If you would like to know what you are eating, look for energy bars that have familiar ingredients, like ones you could find in your kitchen cabinet. Do you know what potassium pyrosulfite is? I didnt think so. Go with what you know.

If you do choose to skip a meal, it is very important to at least have a healthy, nourishing snack to hold you over until your next meal. Try your hardest to resist the fast-food places and candy aisles at the grocery stores. It will be beneficial to you in the long run.

Copyright Michael Adams 2007. All rights reserved.

Michael Adams, Owner and Founder of Eddie's Energy Bars, resides in Richmond, VT where his all natural, homemade energy bars are manufactured. Michael is a firm believer in being healthy and staying active. He is currently a freshman at Bryant University in Smithfield, RI. Head on over to http://www.eddiesenergy.com to have Eddie's Energy Bars sent right to your door before you head outside!

The Pros and Cons of Using Solar Power

Proponents of solar power would say that it is the way to fuel the future. Cynics tend to find reasons why solar power will not work. The truth is that there is some validity to both sides. There are both advantages and disadvantages of using solar power.

One reason solar power is so convenient is that there is not any requirement to find any source of fuel beyond the light of the sun. This means that no excavation or pumping is required to access the energy source, as in fossil fuels. Since the sunlight is readily available every day at least to some degree, it is easy to make use of its energy.

For every solar power system that is used, pollution is cut down that much more. Solar power is clean and puts off no harmful emissions into the atmosphere. It causes no pollution of the water supply and no fouling of the soil. There is simply no energy source that causes less damage to the earth.

Solar power systems can be expected to last a long time. They are tough-wearing and sturdy. They have to be built to last so that owners can recoup their investments. It turns out that solar power systems last much longer than that.

The reliability factor is important for any power source. Solar energy passes the test of dependability with flying colors. With a proper system, solar energy can keep a house off the utility power grid completely with a consistent power supply.

The costs for maintaining a solar power system are very low. Some components of the system may last decades without any maintenance at all. Solar panels are often warranted to maintain 80% of their efficiency for up to 25 years. Other parts will need to be replaced sooner, but if all goes well there should be no maintenance costs at all for the first five years.

A solar power system is neither too dangerous nor too complicated for most people to run. It requires no supervision from the government or any other agency because it poses no risks. The cost of running the systems is also very low.

There are certainly a few negative aspects of using solar power. Before consumers can have any solar power, they have to invest thousands of dollars. In five to ten years, they will make up the cost by saving on electrical bills. However, if people do not have the capital to make the initial outlay of cash, it is easier to get their electricity through their local utility company.

The other main reason that solar power is not ideal is that it doesn't perform well on cloudy days or at all at night. Since most people still need power during these times, they have two choices. They can hook up to the power grid and get part of their energy from the utility company, or they can use battery storage. Both ways cost additional money.

In the end, the advantages of solar power far outweigh the disadvantages. It seems that the main sticking point is price. Yet, as green technology comes down in price, this kind of energy becomes even more desirable.

To learn more about how to use solar power for your home or business, check out The Ultimate Guide To Solar Power at http://errolhoward.com/solar/

How Much Electricity Does a Wind Generator Produce?

If you are interested to build a renewable wind generator system to run your home with wind power, you need to first understand how electricity is produced with wind energy and how much electricity can be produced by the wind turbines.

Wind is a result of different temperatures on different surfaces of the ground at various times of the day. When a part of the ground is heated up first, the air above it becomes warm and rises. The cooler air takes over the space left by the warm air and the result is wind.

1. How Does A Wind Generator Turbine Work?

As long as there is wind, the wind generator will be able to capture the kinetic energy and convert it to electrical power inside the system for your home use. It is usually installed on the roof of your house for maximum efficiency.

If insufficient energy is produced from the wind generator system, you can still draw electricity from the utility company, especially at times when the air is almost not moving. However, when a lot of electricity is produced, especially when the wind speed exceed 7 mph, there is a chance that you can produce excess electricity which you can then use to sell back to the utility company.

2. How Much Electricity Can One Wind Turbine Generate?

The electricity that a wind generator can generate will depend on turning speed of the rotor and the turbine's size. A 10-kW wind turbine can generate about 10,000 kWh a year at a location with wind speeds averaging 12 miles per hour, or about enough to power a typical household. A 5-MW turbine can produce more than 15 million kWh in a year, which can be used to power more than 1, 400 households.

Thousands of people have already eliminated their own home electricity bills with this free energy system. They learned how to build it by downloading a step-by-step guide online. You can find out more about how to build this homemade power system at the website link below.

Are you looking to build a Wind Generator to produce Electricity for your home? Do not try any windmill and solar power system scams until you read the author's review of the Best Home Energy Systems at http://www.renewableenergysystemreview.com first!

The author has managed to reduce his energy bill by more than 80% by building his own renewable home energy system. Check out his website to find out how to do it!

Conservation Suggestions to Destination Clubs From the Veras Group

"Greening" businesses have been a popular topic for many years, and a recent conversation on the DestinationClubForums led us to compile some of those suggestions into an article on destination clubs and the environment.

Visit The Veras Group website and you see two short words at the bottom of every page: "Wind Powered." Much like many of our destination club partners, The Veras Group strives to limit our impact on the environment and designed and power our website using local wind power.

Quintess, Leading Residences of the World absorbs the costs of the energy consumption for each of their properties, factoring in a plethora of factors.

Electricity consumed on a month to month basis for each home

Square footage of common areas
Total number of rooms
Average occupancy rates
Estimated total number of guests per year

Abercrombie & Kent planted a tree for every client that traveled in 2007, totaling over 30,000 new trees. Select Abercrombie & Kent journeys even allow clients to personally help save the Earth while they travel. We are eagerly looking forward to learning more about how the new Abercrombie & Kent Residence Club will continue and further these initiatives in the future.

With the help of our friends at DestinationClubForums, we have created a short list of ways destination clubs can help the environment.

Provide An Easy Way To Recycle While Traveling

The easiest and one of the most effective tools available to destination clubs and their members, providing recycling bins in each home can vastly reduce the amount of waste produced during a member's trip. High Country Club has already begun offering this service to their members.

Use Lower Wattage Bulbs/Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

If every American home replaced one light bulb with an Energy Star qualified bulb, enough energy would be saved to light more than 3,000,000 homes for a year and prevent the greenhouse gases equivalent to 800,000 cars. For the destination club finance departments, each bulb saves an average of approximately $30 over its lifetime. The average home has approximately 45 light bulbs each. Now with over 750 total homes, the industry could save over $1,000,000 for this simple, environmentally friendly fix.

Use Energy Efficient, Low Water Use Appliances

Many appliances, including dishwashers, washers and dryers, are now readily available and use less than half of the energy and water consumption used by their counterparts.
Have High Efficiency Heating and Cooling Systems

Between the warm climates of each club's beach properties and the cold ski properties, 69% of the industry's homes (21% in alpine destinations and 48% in beach locations) are in climates requiring either heating or cooling systems. Traditionally, 45 percent of most family's utility bill goes towards heating and cooling. As a nation, the United States emits 150 million tons of carbon dioxide each year from these systems. Just like light bulbs and appliances, heating and cooling units are quickly becoming more cost effective and energy saving options, but until then, there are many smaller fixes that can help lower heating and cooling costs.

Furnace Maintenance

Prior to the furnace being turned on each year, The Veras Group suggests that a technician come and service the unit. This can save over $400 each year in heating costs. In addition, furnace filters should be routinely changed. Not only are there health ramifications for dirty furnace filters, but a clean filter can save over $60 in heating bills and maximize the heating unit's productivity.

Home Furnishings

Destination club homes are built for large parties. Couches and chairs often are placed in areas to maximize seating space, not considering air flow. Make sure that air vents are exposed and not covered by beds, couches and other furniture throughout the house. For another simple fix, pull couches and chairs slightly away from exterior walls when you are traveling to ski properties. Exterior walls are the coldest areas of the home and positioning seating away from the walls keeps you more comfortable. Likewise, large furniture pieces such as entertainment centers and bookcases should be positioned next to exterior walls to provide for greater insulation.

Reverse The Spin of Ceiling Fans During Winter

Most fans have a toggle switch that changes the direction of the blades rotation. In winter, rotating the blades so they rotate clockwise will gather the warm air that collects near the ceiling and pull it down into the heart of the room. Set the fan at its lowest level and you won't even know it's on.

Buy and Build Responsibly

As destination clubs continue to build their presence in the luxury travel industry, they gain more buying power in resort areas. Not only can destination clubs seek out these luxury resorts but can using their own pull in current resorts and push for increased eco-friendly initiatives.
Secure Agreements with Rental Car Companies Offering Hybrids

Between Enterprise, Hertz and Avis, there are over 10,000 hybrid vehicles available for rental throughout the United States. Destination clubs can secure and expand partnerships with other luxury travel accommodations and airlines. Working with car rental agencies to acquire preferred rates on hybrid vehicles to members is yet another way that clubs can help satisfy their members.

Limit The Number of Lights Used For Guest Arrival

Destination clubs all want to make strong impressions on their members. To welcome members to a home, clubs typically turn on all the lights prior to a member's arrival. Clubs can limit the number of lights turned on before members arrive, and still make a great impression.

Alternative Power Sources

Wind, solar and hydropower are all less polluting than coal energy. We advocate for more destination clubs to work these alternative energy sources into both new and existing homes, and also building/purchasing in areas where alternative energy sources are readily available.

Concierge Services

Training the on-site concierges how to complete the above mentioned items like changing furnace filters and to limit light consumption prior to a member arrival will do wonders in the long run. Not only that, but hiring knowledgeable local hosts who can suggest environmentally friendly options can also greatly impact the amount of energy spent while traveling.

Margaret Mead said "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfully committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." Destination clubs and destination club members alike have begun to dedicate more time to energy conservation. The Veras Group applauds these initiatives and looks forward to assisting clubs and club members in any way possible to further these goals.

To learn more about destination club travel and green initiatives put into place by these clubs, please feel free to contact The Veras Group.

The Veras Group is the only unbiased destination club news, consulting and brokerage firm. As our client, we accompany you on your destination club purchase from start to finish: customized reviews of your travel needs, unrestricted access to our expert advisors, insiders' advice from industry veterans, insightful due diligence support, thorough club comparisons and points of difference, and the best available terms & pricing on your membership, all at no cost to you.

Please reach one of our destination club advisors at 877-VERAS-07 or 970-449-4680 to learn more about the industry, specific clubs, and our service, or visit our website http://www.TheVerasGroup.com

Join us: we know the way.

Go Green - Save Energy When Heating Your Home

Your annual energy use is likely to be directed towards the water and space heating. If you are like most people today, your energy bills are higher than ever. You must practice efficient home heating in order to save your money, go green and reduce the carbon footprint. Apply the following tips in order to make your home greener, more energy saving, and even save some cash too.

Start by sealing leaks in windows or doors. Heat loss from such leaks is one of many reasons why you cannot enjoy a warm and comfortable home during wintertime. It is high time for you to seal such leaks in order to preserve the energy and protect your wallet. Good insulation is your main guarantee that your home will not be affected by the extreme weather conditions attributed to the climate change. You will need insulation strips or a tube of exterior silicone caulk in order to seal your windows and doors.

Find those leaks! In order to do this, you can use a candle on a very breezy day in order to determine their location. You will have to close all the doors and windows and start wandering around the rooms to search for the existing leaks that prevent you from having a warm, cozy, and insulated personal space.

Pay attention to the direction where the smoke drifts in order to detect your future target zones. As soon as you manage to detect those zones, use the silicone tube to seal them. Next, you should cover your window frames with clear plastic which will help prevent more draft and make the difference for your home heating. Storm windows can also be used in order to cut the current heat loss. They are designed to create dead-air and insulate the space inside your windows. You can purchase such storm windows at most local store. They are a wise investment because they are designed to increase the present temperature of your interior windows on a cold day. You will feel more comfortable, and so will your wallet.

Don't forget about ventilation. The better you insulate and draft-proof your home, the more you are likely to need good ventilation to provide yourself with optimized results. The pollutants coming from your heaters may accumulate over time. The excess condensation will cause mildew and mold to grow, which is the last thing anyone wants to happen. Therefore, open some windows for a couple of minutes a day in order to properly ventilate your home. Next, you will have to spread the home heat and use the right heaters that can be directed to heat you from your toes to your head. Such heaters are cost effective as well and your initial investment will be paid off in no time. You will have to heat your home wisely.

Forget about heating your home to tropical temperatures, this may be very uncomfortable. Utilizing your thermostat will not only keep your home at the right temperature, it will also save you money. For instance, try and reduce the temperature at night. Your programmable thermostat will soon become your best friend when it comes to heating your home in a green and money saving way.

Amelia Yap is a mother who is very conscious about global warming and the future or our environment. She has made it her mission to educate others to go green, reduce their carbon foot print, and help save our environment.

You can download her FREE report, "27 Ways to Go Green and See Green" to see how easy it is to go green and save money along the way.

Earth4Energy Manual Review - Earth4Energy Scam?

Does the Earth4Energy Manual really work, or is it just a scam? After searching on the internet for ways to reduce my electricity bill, I stumbled upon this home energy guide that made me really curious but skeptical at the same time. I was desperate to reduce the amount of money I was spending on electricity every month, so I eventually ended up purchasing the manual to try out the windmill and solar system inside.

1. What Are The Benefits Of Using The Earth4Energy Manual?

After buying the materials and building the systems with the step-by-step instructions inside the guide, I am now able to produce enough energy to run my PCs and television set. Eventually, I am thinking about increasing the number of systems to power my entire house with it. In short, Earth4Energy really does work and I am pleased with the cost savings that I am experiencing with it today.

2. What I Learned Inside the Earth4Energy Manual

This guide contains easy to follow instructions that taught me how to build my own windmills and solar panels. These 2 renewable energy systems are able to generate electricity for my house and help me save costs.

You also need not know where to get the materials to build the 2 systems, as the Earth4Energy manual has listed the items and also states the cheapest sources for them. It is also important to learn how to maintain the windmill and solar panels so as to ensure that they do not wear out quickly. The manual contains a chapter that teaches you all about maintenance.

Thousands of people have already eliminated their own home electricity bills with this free energy system. They learned how to build it by downloading a step-by-step guide online. You can find out more about how to build this homemade power system at the website link below.

Is Earth4Energy Manual a scam? Do not try any windmill and solar power system scams until you read the author's review of the Best Home Energy Systems at http://www.renewableenergysystemreview.com first!

The author has managed to reduce his energy bill by more than 80% by building his own renewable home energy system. Check out his website to find out how to do it!

Insulate Hot Water Pipes and Save Energy

As the world moves deeper into recession, people are looking for ways to cut their everyday living expenses. One of the major expenses in every household is that of energy consumption. With all the appliances and gadgets men have made, we tend to use, misuse and waste a good deal of energy. One easy way to save energy and to cut some of your bills is by keeping water hot inside the pipes for longer durations in winter. Insulating water pipes is the easiest way to achieve this cut in energy.

First of all, measure the dimensions of the water pipes you want to insulate. You should note the measurements somewhere so that you won't forget them, especially the outer diameter associated with each pipe. Make sure that there are no leakages in the pipes. If you find any leakage point, get that fixed before continuing with the insulation.

Once you have checked all pipes and taken measurements, you need to decide which type of insulation you should use. Whatever insulation that you select, ensure you cover as much area as you can so that the heat that escapes is kept to a minimum. The most common material used in this regard is pre-formed molded insulation foam. Because of being common, you can easily get it for most sizes and lengths, and separate small pieces are available for spigots. In order to get the best installation, ensure that the inner diameter of the foam is about equal or only slightly larger than the outer diameter of the pipes. This will form a closure and so cool air will not be stuck between the pipelines and insulation.

Upon acquiring the necessary materials, use a mild cleaning agent to remove any soot from the pipes. Also make sure there isn't any oil or other dampness on the outer surface as this hinders with the installment of insulation material. After the pipes become dry, wrap the foam around it carefully without leaving any part of the pipe uncovered. Additionally, when attaching 2 molded foams at bends, it is a good idea to sever the foam at forty-five degree angles, such that they enclose the whole bend and don't leave any space uncovered. Once you have successfully put it on the pipes, wrap some acrylic tape around it to ensure greater efficiency. You could also try using duct tape, though some plumbing experts prefer to employ acrylic tape. You can also use a wire or clamp rather than tape.

If you are living in a place where pipe freezing occurs frequently, it's highly recommended to insulate you water pipes even if you have to hire a plumber for this. That's because water expands when it freezes, and this can cause even durable pipes to break. Pipes most vulnerable to breakage are those situated outside the house like the swimming pool line. In the cold months, it is beneficial to empty water from the line and turn off the valve to halt additional water flow. If you find a pipe that is frozen, do not use naked fire to try to heat it up. The best thing would be to call a licensed plumber to be on the safe side.

Scott Rodgers is a master plumber who has recently begun writing articles for both a plumbing and non-plumbing audience. To view more of plumbing articles, visit http://eLocalPlumbers.com