Frugal and Energy Efficient Living
In reply to the discussion: Looking for ways to lower my electric bill [View all]
womanofthehills
(9,326 posts)You can have your solar system connected to the grid - so your meter spins backwards. Yrs ago, when I was off grid, it was not recommended to heat with electric but if your system is grid connected - no problem.
I only have a 2000 watt solar system but it makes a difference in my electric bills I'm billed for zero watts in the summer and it probably reduces my bill by a third in the winter. Also, extra summer credits can carry over to winter.
As many south windows as you can squeeze in lowers heating costs big time. My whole south side is windows (NM sunshine) - no extra heat needed if the sun is out and it's below zero.
I know the new wood stoves keep particulates at bay, but if I were to get a fireplace installed I would want to know how much it would pollute the air.
As much as we love the nostalgia of wood-burning fireplaces, they pose numerous risks to the environment and your health. Since it is an open fire, they release small levels of toxic particles into the atmosphere. Some of the compounds they release (like nitrogen oxide and chlorinated dioxins) contribute to environmental hazards like smog and acid rain. Additionally, the wood smoke and gases can also harm your heart and lungs. https://www.thebioflame.com/blog/environmentally-friendly-fireplaces-ranked/
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