Posts Tagged ‘renewable energy’

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Solar Energy – Benefits of a Do-it-yourself Solar Water Heater

March 11th, 2010

Even if you are a novice with DIY jobs, the Do-it-yourself solar water heater is still a good venture to do. You will find different levels of difficulty that may be built, depending on which kind of task you are starting. No matter what your level of expertise, you will be able to find an appropriate project that is suitable for both your needs and your degree of experience.

There are different options for DIY solar water heaters and the simplest among these are batch water heaters. These are created to ensure that the various components you need can be found at your neighborhood hardware store. The various options include varying designs that could be modified to match your specific needs or individual style.

The batch water heater utilizes a water tank that is positioned where it’ll heat the power utilizing the sun’s energy. This is then connected to your house’s plumbing system. You need the sun’s heating of the water to be as effective as it can be, and you may need to get slightly innovative to complete this.

The first thing would be to have your water tank painted a black matte color. Because black absorbs lights, this helps the tank to absorb as well as hold as much heat as possible. Beyond this you will need to take stock of what is accessible to you and get creative. Many people encase the batch water heater inside a basic glass box. This generates an insulated area close to the water heater which will additionally help to hold the heat in.

Many people get all the more innovative. Some Do-it-yourself solar water heaters integrate portable mirrors situated smartly surrounding the water tank. The suns rays then strike these mirrors and are reflected on to the system, increasing the surface area which will be heated. These types of mirrored systems are the most reliable ones since the largest surface area is utilized, assisting the tank to make probably the most use of the sun’s rays.

However, if you reside in chilly climates you need to recognize that the batch water heater is probably not a great option for you. If you come across long stretches of below freezing temperatures then you will definitely need to avoid the batch system. Chilly places as well as freezing temperatures may cause batch heaters to break. Batch heaters in colder climates should be drained during the winter to protect them.

As a result, if you live in a cooler climate you need to look into one of the other several choices available for DIY solar water heaters. One particular alternative is a closed loop system. With a closed loop system the water is in continuous motion, certainly not having the chance to freeze and cause damage. However, closed loop systems tend to be more technical and require greater plumbing knowledge so you should only attempt it when you have lots of DIY experience.

The fantastic thing about this type of system is that they can reduce your energy cost and reduce your carbon footprint so they are great for the environment. Most DIY solar water heaters could be built for under $1200, and therefore it won’t take very long before your investment pays for itself and you’ll have fun constructing this new, money-saving system.

Want to find out more about solar power, then visit Nathan Henry’s site on how to choose the best solar panels and what it can do for you.

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5 Tips to Save Energy and Money and Use Wind Power to Save More

March 9th, 2010

Following you will find 5 tips to help reduce your utility bill year round with or without the use of wind power. Hopefully these will help you to make ends meet, especially for those who are already unemployed or fear unemployment is a round the corner.

1. Whether you live in a mild climate and use your furnace more than the a/c or in a hot climate and use the a/c more than the furnace, it is important to have your a/c and furnace serviced once a year. Having the units serviced yearly can keep them running efficiently, saving money, and can keep them in good running condition prolonging their life, again, saving you money on a repair bill. On top of having your units serviced regularly, change the filter once a month, more frequently in dusty environments. A dirty filter, even if it is only partially dirty will make both the a/c and furnace work hard, wasting energy and money.

2. Consider replacing your manual thermostat with a programmable one. There are many who try to save energy and money by turning the thermostat way down in the winter when they leave the house, or way up in the summer, and this fine as long you do not go to extremes. Turning the temperature way up or way down will cause the furnace or a/c to run excessively to bring the temperature back to a comfortable level. Changing the thermostat manually works good if you don’t forget to do it, which is why I suggested replacing the old manual one with a programmable one, set it and forget it until the seasons change, this way you gain maximum benefits and savings.

3. Seal air leaks by taking a trip to the hardware store and pick up caulk and outdoor outlet gaskets (the ones they use behind the outlet covers on outdoor outlets and switches) caulk around doors and windows. Then remove the covers on all the outlets and light switches located on outside walls, and then place a gasket over the outlet or switch then, reinstall the cover. Now take a sharp utility knife and carefully cut off the excess gasket that sticks out from under the cover (they are generally made of foam.)

4. This will only apply if you have and use a fireplace, and is more of a precaution than a savings tip. Using a fireplace, if you have one, can save you a considerable amount of money in the winter. However, the more you use it the higher build up of creosote you will get, and if you do not have the chimney cleaned regularly you stand the chance of chimney fires. Another thing you should look at is the top of the chimney, is there a screen cover and cap. If there isn’t you have the possibility of birds, that sit on the chimney for warmth, becoming overcome by fumes and falling in the chimney which can block it causing smoke to backup into the house.

5. This is not really a tip as much as a suggestion, (wind power) a windmill in the backyard can produce almost enough power to eliminate your power bill. All you need for the windmill to be economical is live in place that has a minimum of 11 mph winds and live on enough land to erect it. With a windmill and the above tips, you will save more money than you would believe is possible.

With the cost of living rising every day and threat of losing your job, it is even more important to use wind power to reduce your utility bill. Click here to discover affordable ways to use renewable energy sources.

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Learning How To Build A Wind Generator Is Easier Than You Might Think

March 7th, 2010

Life can be tough sometimes and you may be looking for ways to make it easier and less expensive. Since energy, especially electricity is one of your more costly everyday expenses, wouldn’t it be great if you could tap into the renewable energy that is all around you? Wind energy is already benefiting much of the world, so why can’t you take advantage of it, too? All you need is a wind generator. But do you know how to build a wind generator?

Glad you asked. Below are some basic guidelines to get you started:

- Location, location, location. You will need an open area with at least a three hundred to four hundred foot radius. You also need to watch for any obstacles overhead since the tower can reach 30 to 40 feet high. A tilt-up tower is best for low areas since they are closer to the ground. This also makes them easier to maintain. However, a free standing tower will maximize the output since it is taller and has fewer obstructions.

- Now you have to think about the materials you will need, beginning with the motor that will convert the wind energy into electricity. It needs to be a DC motor that is designed for high voltage, low rpm’s, and high current.

- Then comes the blades of the wind generator, which can be carved from plastic, wood, sheet metal or you could also use PVC pipes. Note that the longer the blades are, the wider its swept area covered, meaning the more power it can extract from the wind.

- Now you need to connect the blades to the motor using a hub. One of the simplest ways is to look for a scrap steel disk that you can drill holes in. Attach this to a shaft that will connect the blades.

- After this, the tail and the pivot are now to be put together to keep the apparatus turned to the wind. This can be done by using a square tubing, pipe nipple, flange for the pivot and a scrap metal sheet for the tail.

- Lastly, you need a place to store the converted energy so it is there even when the winds are calm. You do this with batteries. In order to monitor the charging, you should keep the generator and batteries as close together as possible. Look for low maintenance batteries that are highly efficient.

You need to look for special batteries called “deep cycle”, because they are rated in amp-hours and have indicators of their charge-discharge cycles. They are best for power system applications such as this.

In knowing how to build a wind generator it’s best to remember that placing a diode between the battery and the generator is good in order to prevent the energy from being wasted and flowing directly onto the generator itself. Adding a secondary load is helpful as a depot for excess energy produced.

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Green DIY Energy Overview For Cost-Conscious Conservationists

March 7th, 2010

Green DIY Energy not only saves money but helps the environment. By using green energy, carbon dioxide emissions are reduced, therefore helping in the fight against global warming. The main types of green energy that are used by consumers are solar and wind-powered.

Green energy saves homeowners a lot of money by reducing monthly energy bills. State and federal government also provide rebates and tax incentives for using these types of power. DIY kits for solar panel or wind turbine installation can save the homeowner even more money by not having to pay for professional installation.

DIY kits help homeowners avoid having to pay professional contractors to install solar panels or wind turbines. If done by a professional, this can be very costly and greatly reduce energy cost savings. The type of kit should be carefully chosen. Instructions can be confusing for individuals who do not have much experience with home do it yourself jobs.

The easiest kits to use are those that are dedicated to a specific use, like heating a backyard pool. A kit is also most useful if it is modular, which means that another kit can be easily added on to increase energy capacity as needed. A solar kit should be able to operate on its own, and not need to be connected to the home’s existing electrical system or plumbing. Kits should have easy instructions, clear diagrams, and come with all needed parts. It should provide an alternative plan when there is minimal or no energy available. In other words, it should be able to change the household’s energy consumption to conventional electricity when its own green energy source is not available.

The main type of Green DIY power is produced by solar panels. These are large panels that have many smaller plates that collect light from the sun and change it into energy. One thing to consider in deciding to purchase a solar panel DIY kit, is the amount of sunlight in the area. Solar panels work on the amount of available light, not heat. During winter, with shorter days and frequent overcast skies, solar panels will not collect as much energy. However when there is a lot of sunshine, extra power generated by solar goes back to the grid and runs the electrical meter backward. This saves the homeowner money.

Wind power is another popular form of green energy. Wind turbines change the wind’s kinetic energy to power compatible with a home’s electrical system. It is also connected to the power grid, and on days when an excess of wind power is produced, it is sold back to the electrical utility.

Green DIY energy usage is growing rapidly. By using this natural, renewable energy, consumers enjoy great savings, while simultaneously helping to lower carbon dioxide emissions. While various types of DIY kits are plentiful, and are fairly easy to use, the homeowner should still carefully select a kit that is compatible with his or her DIY abilities.

Tired of high energy bills? Then build your own energy system with Green DIY Energy and start saving money? Then you will want to start at the Green DIY Energy review and decide for yourself. You can have your energy system up and running this weekend!

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Important Information About Green DIY Energy

March 6th, 2010

With the rising cost of energy, green DIY energy is becoming more popular today than ever. By using wind turbines and solar panels, more persons are providing for all or part of their home energy production on their own home site.

Commonly home systems are used to store energy in a bank of batteries that is in tern used to power the home. By using the batteries, a more stable energy source is developed. This helps to prevent the spikes that would occur if connected directly to the power generation source. Expensive electronic equipment is protected from those spikes.

If you live in an area where there are many days of unobstructed sunshine, solar energy may be the best choice for you. Solar panels can be installed on the roof of the home or outbuildings in order to produce the energy needed for your home.

In areas that have less sunshine but more wind will do well with a wind generator. Wind turbines need to be on a tower that elevates them to about 100 feet above ground for the best generation. This prevents interference from buildings and trees.

If you live near enough to public power lines that you are able to connect or are already connected, you can use your DIY power to supplement the power needs for your home. Today, many power companies provide reverse electric meters so that any excess power you produce can be sold back to the power company to lower your power bill. This can also provide a more steady power source on overcast days for solar producers or still days for wind producers of electricity. Connecting to the grid lowers the chances that you will need a back up fossil fuel generator.

Persons that choose to live completely off the gird will want to make preparation for the days that their power system does not produce enough electricity for their needs. While the systems do have the storage of the battery system, after a few days of not producing, you may have used all your stored energy. In addition, draining the batteries too low will shorten their life. A back up generator may be necessary.

If you are producing your own power, you will soon find the necessity of low energy appliances for the home. The lower you are able to keep your load, the less you will need to install more equipment to produce power for your home.

Do your part to save the planet and save money with green DIY energy.

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How To Install Solar Panels Carefully At Home

March 4th, 2010

With a growing concern for climate change and global warming issues, many people are now considering greener sources of energy, one of which is the solar panel. Solar panels, as the name implies, are panel boards that are capable of absorbing the sun’s energy and converting it to a form of energy that is usable for the household. Here are some easy methods on how to install solar panels:

One of the most common types of solar panel is the photovoltaic panel. It is easily installed and adaptable to all types of roof.

We call the easiest method as flashed in. This is very simple because you do not need to reconstruct your roof if you intend to remove the panel. Simply position it carefully by flashing in to the roof you will find any hard time.

To better avoid roof leaks, some installers would prefer installing the panels during re-roofing or at the time when the roof is being repaired. That way, you get to mount the panels, check for leaks and repair your roof all at the same time.

Another reason why installers would prefer mounting the panels with the roof off is because it is easier for them to locate the structures where the panels can be mounted, eliminating the risk of trial and error drilling.

Using pilot bit, align the mounts and place each on the rafter then pre drill the rafter to assure the mountings will be securely attached.

Secure it again by using the stainless lag bolts of 3/8 in size. Then after, position each metal flashing on top. To feel no worries with the le leaks in the future, avail the panels which are hot mapped.

The second to the last step involves installation of the solar panels and connecting them to an array.

Try checking each of them with the use of conduit.

The whole process is very easy and very neat. It was simple how to install solar panels. After installation you may use it right away.

Related Articles: photovoltaic solar panel or do it yourself solar power

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Renewable Energy Sources For Electricity Production – Alternate Home Power

February 28th, 2010

Nowadays, it is possible to buy do-it-yourself renewable energy equipment to use renewable energy sources for electricity production in homes. If you are worried about the amount of money that needs to be spent to buy such equipment, think about the possible savings in the future.

Considering the world economic crisis and current situation of the environmental pollution of the planet Earth, using renewable energy sources for electricity production is a wise way of spending less money and helping to reduce environmental pollution. Power supply plants usually generate electricity using petrol. The process involves emission of some toxic gases and chemicals to the surroundings, which are harmful to the environment.

Using natural renewable energy sources like the Sun and wind does not affect the environment in a bad way since there is no emission of by-products. If you are worried about the possible cost involved to install the renewable energy equipment, well, you have a few choices. The easiest way would be to hire a renewable energy contractor to do so.

But, it might be more expensive compared to installing them on your own. Nowadays, you can simply purchase do-it-yourself solar energy panels to generate electricity using the energy from the Sun, solar power. For using wind energy, you can buy do-it-yourself wind energy turbine systems.

Just follow the instructions on the DVD that comes together with the equipment. You do not have to prior scientific knowledge to do so. If you are still lost, just surf the worldwide web. There are many forums that talk on generating your own renewable energy sources.

Ask for help or guidance from those who have experience installing them on your own. Although you do spend some amount of money for purchase and set up of the equipment but you do not have to worry about maintenance costs. Unlike electricity wiring, you spend very little for maintenance over the years.

Want to learn more about using Free Electricity Production? Do not do it because the author has found many useless guides online. Download the Best Step-By-Step Home Energy Guides at http://www.renewableenergysystemreview.com/download.htm!

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Learn How to Create Green DIY Energy

February 26th, 2010

The long-term damage caused by green house gases is more apparent than ever before. Greenhouse gases rain a damaging viral strain on the earth’s Eco system. Our earth has become diseased by these gases and we do not have a cure. Although the government is spending billions on alternative sources, we should not wait but take control and do our part to stop polluting the atmosphere. Individuals have spent their time and money to make solar panel guides that are affordable and even easy to build.

Building your solar panels is easy if you understand the process of developing one. The Internet is resourceful and has wealth of information on how to design your solar panels. But not every one has the technical knowledge to understand the diagrams and schematics. You need the guidance of the expert to walk you through the process.

You can purchase guides to show you exactly how and will not cost all that much. You will save a bundle on building your own. Look for a guide that has video as well as printed instructions. Kids have used some of these guides to build solar panels for science class. They are not that hard to follow.

Another choice to building your panels is to lease them. Just like any lease-to-buy contract when you miss payments they come for your source of energy! You save on the energy cost but pay a higher price to have the panels.

If you decide to buy a guide for your project make sure you get a guarantee to help you finish your project. The individual that has created the guild is usually will willing to get you through to the finish.

You can also buy pre-made panels but they are quite pricey. The cost usually varies from $600-$1500 per panel and if you buy in bulk, you will get a discount. You still need to pay for the installation and hook-up. Though you save in energy bills, it would be a really long time before it could match the cost of the panels.

The guide offers you the step-by-step instructions to help you understand the schematics and diagrams. It is also economical and you can build your panel for less than $27. The educational video is very informative and it is like having an expert in your own living room. Let the experts guide you build the solar panels for your own economic advantage and the sake of our planet.

Ready to start your solar panel project with Green DIY Energy and start saving money? Then you need to get the full scoop at the Green DIY Energy review and decide for yourself. You can have your energy system up and running this weekend!

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Homemade Electric Generator Review – Renewable Energy Systems

February 26th, 2010

You can build homemade electric generator. It is the best option for you to reduce your electricity bills. By investing a little bit of time and money you can construct a electric generator at home. Generally these electric generators are very expensive in the market. However, if you make this generator at home you can get this at a very low investment.

By searching on the internet you can find various methods of constructing the electric generator. On various websites you will get step by step procedure of building a electric machine at home. Now let’s understand the step by step procedures.

Firstly you have to plan all the things which you need to buy to construct this generator. A proper plan means you have to list all the products which you need to buy. Products include batteries, blades, bolts, nuts, core to fix the blades, turbine and many more.

After you plan about all the products required for constructing the engines, you should find out the place from where you will purchase these products. If you want to go for the cheaper products then you must go for the local hardware shops. These people will offer you a whole bunch of products at a very least price.

The most critical path in this process is to join all the materials with one another and finally to make the engine. It will be better if you make this engine with the help of a manual guide, provided on various websites. In this manual guide you will get the complete formula of making these engines.

Generally these engines made at home require an amount which is less than $200. So you can see with such a less investment you can get so much. Homemade electric generator is the best option with the help of which you can get the best quality engines at a very affordable price. Now get over increasing electricity bills and get the best option made at home only.

Want to learn more about using Homemade Electric Generator? Do not do it because the author has found many useless guides online. Download the Best Step-By-Step Home Energy Guides at http://www.renewableenergysystemreview.com/download.htm!

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Green DIY Energy – Why it Pays to Go Green

February 25th, 2010

There has been so much information given to the public about solar energy that many people feel they know it well. After seeing programs on installing green DIY solar in a home with little or no assistance one begins to wonder how hard it can be. If a person has not had experience with solar cells and panels and their installation, it is important to look at all of the options that are available.

First it is important to spend some time planning and researching the amount of electricity that is needed to run all of the appliances and outlets in a home. Knowing how much energy is going to be needed will be very important when it comes to deciding on the type of green DIY solar project to take on.

Knowing about the “guts” of a solar panel will help an individual to decide if they want to start from scratch and build their solar panel, get a kit where most of the tedious labor is already done, or get some help or consultation in getting the solar panel installed.

The cells inside the solar panel are what produce the electricity. These cells are small, they are connected, and then chained together to produce the amount of electricity that is desired. As an example of the number of cells that are required. It takes about thirty-six polycrystalline cells to run a regular battery. If a person has the time to solder these cells together, then times that by the electricity to run a house, you get an idea of how long this project can take if it is done from scratch.

Each cell produces between 1 and 2 watts of electricity. It takes a lot of these cells pieces together to run a home. When one thinks about the fact that it takes up to 36 polychrystalline cells chained together to produce enough power for a battery, one can begin to see where this could require a lot of space to provide enough electricity for a house.

The individual cells do not produce that much electricity. It is when the cells have been put together that significant amounts of electricity can be produced. However, if the correct encasement or solar panel is not selected the fragile panels can easily be damaged or destroyed by weather or winds. So, selecting the solar panel and its’ placement for the home is an important consideration as well.

Prior to starting a green DIY solar project an individual will want to look at the options available for getting the job done with the least amount of worry and time. There are several ways to do this. There are multiple plans available on-line that give detailed instructions. There are also companies that provide solar kits which give a person the cells, panels, and instructions that they will need to complete their project successfully.

Join the thousands across the nation who have built their own solar panels and are stickin’ it to the energy companies! Click Here to get started on your solar panel project. Visit http://getyourreviews.com/green-diy-energy to get green diy energy at the discounted price.

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