{"appState":{"pageLoadApiCallsStatus":true},"categoryState":{"relatedCategories":{"headers":{"timestamp":"2023-03-30T08:01:07+00:00"},"categoryId":33928,"data":{"title":"Sustainability","slug":"sustainability","image":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928}],"parentCategory":{"categoryId":33916,"title":"Garden & Green Living","slug":"garden-green-living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"}},"childCategories":[{"categoryId":33929,"title":"Composting","slug":"composting","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33929"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-2.fabfbd5c.png","width":0,"height":0},"hasArticle":true,"hasBook":true,"articleCount":39,"bookCount":1},{"categoryId":33930,"title":"Green Building","slug":"green-building","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33930"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-1.daf74cf0.png","width":0,"height":0},"hasArticle":true,"hasBook":true,"articleCount":54,"bookCount":2},{"categoryId":33931,"title":"Recycling","slug":"recycling","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33931"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-2.fabfbd5c.png","width":0,"height":0},"hasArticle":true,"hasBook":true,"articleCount":6,"bookCount":1},{"categoryId":33932,"title":"General Sustainability","slug":"general-sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33932"},"image":{"src":"/img/background-image-1.daf74cf0.png","width":0,"height":0},"hasArticle":true,"hasBook":true,"articleCount":44,"bookCount":4}],"description":"Being environmentally friendly and keeping our planet healthy are concerns we all share. Help do your part with this actionable advice from Dummies.","relatedArticles":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles?category=33928&offset=0&size=5"},"hasArticle":true,"hasBook":true,"articleCount":143,"bookCount":8},"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"}},"relatedCategoriesLoadedStatus":"success"},"listState":{"list":{"count":10,"total":143,"items":[{"headers":{"creationTime":"2023-03-29T15:10:48+00:00","modifiedTime":"2023-03-29T15:50:00+00:00","timestamp":"2023-03-29T18:01:02+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928},{"name":"Recycling","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33931"},"slug":"recycling","categoryId":33931}],"title":"What Is Planned Obsolescence?","strippedTitle":"what is planned obsolescence?","slug":"what-is-planned-obsolescence","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Learn what planned obsolescence is, how some companies build it into their products, and some ways you can avoid those products.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"Planned or built-in obsolescence is when companies deliberately design products to break down quickly, forcing the customer to purchase a replacement product. The purpose of this tactic is simply to generate more revenue for the company.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_298144\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"630\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-298144\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/old-electronics-garbage-can-adobeStock_59069370.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"630\" height=\"420\" /> ©Photographee.eu / Adobe Stock[/caption]\r\n\r\nThe earliest story of built-in obsolescence is the light bulb. Back in 1924, a cartel of the major light bulb manufacturers, including General Electric and Phillips, made sure that light bulbs didn’t significantly exceed an expected life span of 1,000 hours, so the homeowner had to buy replacement bulbs regularly.\r\n\r\nBuilt-in obsolescence is prevalent in electronic goods, although not exclusive to them. Some of the most common tactics include the following.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" ><strong>Deliberately shortening a product’s life span</strong></h2>\r\nThis is the most common method used. Examples include using cheap or unreliable parts that break or wear out quickly, rendering the entire product useless. For instance, many children’s toys are built to last only as long as their weakest part, even though rough playing is expected.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" ><strong>Preventing repairs</strong></h2>\r\nMany devices we use regularly can’t be repaired. Sometimes it’s simply the battery that needs replacing, but it’s glued or otherwise locked inside the device where we can’t reach it.\r\n\r\nCompanies may even suggest the warranty is void if we attempt to open the product. In other scenarios, repair services may be available, but they are often absurdly expensive, while the price of a new product is much lower.\r\n\r\nMobile phone manufacturers have drawn criticism recently for the lack of repairability of phones.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab3\" ><strong>Restricting software upgrades</strong></h2>\r\nMany of our devices rely on up-to-date software, particularly with the number of viruses and scams around. A product’s software can be made to fail after a certain period, forcing the user to upgrade their product.\r\n\r\nYou might have encountered this issue with an older mobile phone. I was still using my iPhone after five years, but unfortunately, even though the phone still performed all the required tasks, I had to upgrade to a new phone because the software no longer supported any of the apps and my phone was no longer protected.\r\n\r\nIn 2018, Apple was fined $27 million in France for intentionally slowing down the speed of older phones through software updates. Although Apple claimed it was to provide better battery performance, that didn’t help their case because customers should also be able to replace the battery.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab4\" ><strong>The perception of obsolescence</strong></h2>\r\nSometimes companies don’t even design for obsolescence. They simply market the product in a way that suggests you should replace your old device. The new release will have some feature that is bigger or better.\r\n\r\nFast fashion is a good example of the perception of obsolescence, conveying the idea that your clothes are out of date faster than you can get them home from the store.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab5\" >Avoiding planned obsolescence</h2>\r\nAvoiding built-in obsolescence can be tricky. Consider whether you need a new product or whether you can keep using what you have. Look into other options like repairing your old device or buying secondhand.\r\n\r\nDo your research, and check reviews to get a feel for the durability and repairability of an item before you buy. Some companies are headed in the right direction, making their products more repairable and upgradable.\r\n\r\nFor example, Framework has designed a laptop computer with a modular design that gives the user flexibility to upgrade, downgrade, or repair their laptop at any stage. To learn more about what to look out for when choosing a new device, check out my book <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/book/home-auto-hobbies/garden-green-living/sustainability/recycling/recycling-for-dummies-298139/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>Recycling For Dummies</em></a>.\r\n\r\nFinally, the best advice I can give is to take your time and not be pressured by advertising that tells you to get the latest device or product. Sleep on it, and remember it’s your hard-earned money that you’ll be spending.","description":"Planned or built-in obsolescence is when companies deliberately design products to break down quickly, forcing the customer to purchase a replacement product. The purpose of this tactic is simply to generate more revenue for the company.\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_298144\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"630\"]<img class=\"size-full wp-image-298144\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/old-electronics-garbage-can-adobeStock_59069370.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"630\" height=\"420\" /> ©Photographee.eu / Adobe Stock[/caption]\r\n\r\nThe earliest story of built-in obsolescence is the light bulb. Back in 1924, a cartel of the major light bulb manufacturers, including General Electric and Phillips, made sure that light bulbs didn’t significantly exceed an expected life span of 1,000 hours, so the homeowner had to buy replacement bulbs regularly.\r\n\r\nBuilt-in obsolescence is prevalent in electronic goods, although not exclusive to them. Some of the most common tactics include the following.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" ><strong>Deliberately shortening a product’s life span</strong></h2>\r\nThis is the most common method used. Examples include using cheap or unreliable parts that break or wear out quickly, rendering the entire product useless. For instance, many children’s toys are built to last only as long as their weakest part, even though rough playing is expected.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" ><strong>Preventing repairs</strong></h2>\r\nMany devices we use regularly can’t be repaired. Sometimes it’s simply the battery that needs replacing, but it’s glued or otherwise locked inside the device where we can’t reach it.\r\n\r\nCompanies may even suggest the warranty is void if we attempt to open the product. In other scenarios, repair services may be available, but they are often absurdly expensive, while the price of a new product is much lower.\r\n\r\nMobile phone manufacturers have drawn criticism recently for the lack of repairability of phones.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab3\" ><strong>Restricting software upgrades</strong></h2>\r\nMany of our devices rely on up-to-date software, particularly with the number of viruses and scams around. A product’s software can be made to fail after a certain period, forcing the user to upgrade their product.\r\n\r\nYou might have encountered this issue with an older mobile phone. I was still using my iPhone after five years, but unfortunately, even though the phone still performed all the required tasks, I had to upgrade to a new phone because the software no longer supported any of the apps and my phone was no longer protected.\r\n\r\nIn 2018, Apple was fined $27 million in France for intentionally slowing down the speed of older phones through software updates. Although Apple claimed it was to provide better battery performance, that didn’t help their case because customers should also be able to replace the battery.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab4\" ><strong>The perception of obsolescence</strong></h2>\r\nSometimes companies don’t even design for obsolescence. They simply market the product in a way that suggests you should replace your old device. The new release will have some feature that is bigger or better.\r\n\r\nFast fashion is a good example of the perception of obsolescence, conveying the idea that your clothes are out of date faster than you can get them home from the store.\r\n<h2 id=\"tab5\" >Avoiding planned obsolescence</h2>\r\nAvoiding built-in obsolescence can be tricky. Consider whether you need a new product or whether you can keep using what you have. Look into other options like repairing your old device or buying secondhand.\r\n\r\nDo your research, and check reviews to get a feel for the durability and repairability of an item before you buy. Some companies are headed in the right direction, making their products more repairable and upgradable.\r\n\r\nFor example, Framework has designed a laptop computer with a modular design that gives the user flexibility to upgrade, downgrade, or repair their laptop at any stage. To learn more about what to look out for when choosing a new device, check out my book <a href=\"https://www.dummies.com/book/home-auto-hobbies/garden-green-living/sustainability/recycling/recycling-for-dummies-298139/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><em>Recycling For Dummies</em></a>.\r\n\r\nFinally, the best advice I can give is to take your time and not be pressured by advertising that tells you to get the latest device or product. Sleep on it, and remember it’s your hard-earned money that you’ll be spending.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":35268,"name":"Sarah Winkler","slug":"sarah-winkler","description":"Sarah Winkler is an avid environmentalist with a science and project management background who loves sharing her passion for recycling. 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In addition, you need to evaluate how much energy your home needs and how much wind your site actually gets — a realistic wind resource assessment is key. You also want to make sure to steer clear of \"too good to be true\" energy estimates from the pros who want to sell you their goods and services.","description":"After you decide that your home is a good candidate for wind power, you need to understand the basic parts of wind-electric systems and how they fit together. In addition, you need to evaluate how much energy your home needs and how much wind your site actually gets — a realistic wind resource assessment is key. You also want to make sure to steer clear of \"too good to be true\" energy estimates from the pros who want to sell you their goods and services.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":10583,"name":"Ian Woofenden","slug":"ian-woofenden","description":" <p><b>Ian Woofenden</b> is a Senior Editor with Home Power magazine, the Northwest &amp; Costa Rica Coordinator with Solar Energy International, and a wind-energy author, consultant, and instructor. He has been living off-grid with his family and several wind generators for almost 30 years.</p>","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10583"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":33932,"title":"General Sustainability","slug":"general-sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33932"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":195899,"title":"Verify Energy Claims from Wind Generator Professionals","slug":"verify-energy-claims-from-wind-generator-professionals","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/195899"}},{"articleId":195898,"title":"Do You Get Enough Wind for a Wind-Energy System?","slug":"do-you-get-enough-wind-for-a-wind-energy-system","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/195898"}},{"articleId":195894,"title":"The Major Parts of a Wind-Energy System","slug":"the-major-parts-of-a-wind-energy-system","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/195894"}},{"articleId":195895,"title":"Assess Your Energy Usage to Determine Your Wind-Energy Needs","slug":"assess-your-energy-usage-to-determine-your-wind-energy-needs","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/195895"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":208379,"title":"Alternative Energy For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"alternative-energy-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/208379"}},{"articleId":208344,"title":"Green Cleaning For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"green-cleaning-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/208344"}},{"articleId":206672,"title":"How to Set Up Your Own Community Environmental Project","slug":"how-to-set-up-your-own-community-environmental-project","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/206672"}},{"articleId":206671,"title":"Eco-friendly Driving Tactics","slug":"eco-friendly-driving-tactics","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/206671"}},{"articleId":206670,"title":"Cutting Back Consumption and Aiming for Zero Waste","slug":"cutting-back-consumption-and-aiming-for-zero-waste","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/206670"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282674,"slug":"wind-power-for-dummies","isbn":"9780470496374","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0470496371/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0470496371/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/0470496371-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0470496371/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/0470496371/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/wind-power-for-dummies-cover-9780470496374-201x255.jpg","width":201,"height":255},"title":"Wind Power For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":"<p><b data-author-id=\"10583\">Ian Woofenden</b> is a Senior Editor with Home Power magazine, the Northwest &amp; Costa Rica Coordinator with Solar Energy International, and a wind-energy author, consultant, and instructor. He has been living off-grid with his family and several wind generators for almost 30 years.</p>","authors":[{"authorId":10583,"name":"Ian Woofenden","slug":"ian-woofenden","description":" <p><b>Ian Woofenden</b> is a Senior Editor with Home Power magazine, the Northwest &amp; Costa Rica Coordinator with Solar Energy International, and a wind-energy author, consultant, and instructor. He has been living off-grid with his family and several wind generators for almost 30 years.</p>","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10583"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;general-sustainability&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470496374&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221b370fe8a\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;general-sustainability&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470496374&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221b3710938\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","articleList":[{"articleId":195894,"title":"The Major Parts of a Wind-Energy System","slug":"the-major-parts-of-a-wind-energy-system","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/195894"}},{"articleId":195895,"title":"Assess Your Energy Usage to Determine Your Wind-Energy Needs","slug":"assess-your-energy-usage-to-determine-your-wind-energy-needs","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/195895"}},{"articleId":195898,"title":"Do You Get Enough Wind for a Wind-Energy System?","slug":"do-you-get-enough-wind-for-a-wind-energy-system","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/195898"}},{"articleId":195899,"title":"Verify Energy Claims from Wind Generator Professionals","slug":"verify-energy-claims-from-wind-generator-professionals","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/195899"}}],"content":[{"title":"The major parts of a wind-energy system","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>When it comes to power, a wind generator by itself will do absolutely nothing for you. You need a wind-energy <i>system</i><i>,</i> which consists of most or all of these components:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Batteries (for off-grid and backup systems)</b> provide energy storage for periods of calm or during utility grid outages.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>A</b> <b>charge controller and/or voltage clamp</b> take raw energy from a wind generator and condition it so it can charge batteries safely and effectively or interface with an inverter and the utility grid.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Disconnects and overcurrent protection</b> provide safety from overloaded circuits and allow you to isolate different parts of the system.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>A</b> <b>dump load</b> is a place to divert excess energy in off-grid systems or when the utility grid is down, it&#8217;s windy, and your batteries are full.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>An</b> <b>inverter</b> converts direct current (DC) electricity to conventional household alternating current (AC) electricity, and it may &#8220;sell&#8221; surplus electricity to the utility grid.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Loads in a system </b>are energy-using devices, such as lights, appliances, and other electricity users.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">*<b>Metering</b> gives you data display and logging so you can tell what your system is doing and whether it&#8217;s performing well.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>A</b> <b>tower</b> supports a wind generator, getting it up into the smooth, strong wind that&#8217;s needed to generate meaningful amounts of electricity.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Transmission wiring and conduit</b> allow you to transfer energy from where it&#8217;s made to where it&#8217;s stored and used.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Wind generators (or turbines) </b>collect the energy in the wind and use it to make electricity.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Assess your energy usage to determine your wind-energy needs","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Doing a usage assessment to determine how much energy you need is a vital step toward getting a successful wind-electric system that meets your power expectations. These steps help you calculate how much energy you&#8217;re using:</p>\n<ol class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Review all energy bills so you can determine your overall energy use.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">List all <i>loads</i> (electrical appliances) with wattage and run time to see specifically where you&#8217;re using energy and how much you&#8217;re using.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Measure <i>phantom</i> <i>loads</i> (loads that use energy when turned off) using a watt meter.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Inspect your <i>building envelope</i> (the shell of your house), sealing, windows, and so on by having a professional do a blower door test (which pressurizes your house and measures how leaky it is).</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Have an HVAC professional inspect your space and water heating systems.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Consider your energy use habits and goals so you can look for ways to reduce your energy use and plan for future energy use.</p>\n</li>\n</ol>\n"},{"title":"Do you get enough wind for a wind-energy system?","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Analyzing your wind resource (your site&#8217;s average wind speed, measured in miles per hour) is one of the hardest jobs you face when selecting a wind-electric system; no single method gives you exact numbers. To come up with a good estimate of your site&#8217;s average wind speed, combine as many of the following strategies as possible:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Put up a recording anemometer </b>at the proposed wind generator height to measure your actual wind resource; you often need to do it over the course of a year or more.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Use a small test turbine with a watt-hour meter </b>to give you some data while giving you a bit of energy; you can learn important lessons from the experience.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Consult wind maps and roses, </b>which show generalized wind resource information for your area.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Sift through local weather data, </b>which may be an excellent source of wind resource information.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Live on site with eyes and ears open</b> to note seasonal variations in wind.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Climb something tall (like a tree that&#8217;s on a high point on your property) </b>and look at topography and obstructions; this can help you determine your optimum tower height.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Study vegetation, </b>which<b> </b>may reflect how much wind you have; by reading the deformation of trees, you may be able to estimate your wind resource.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Talk with neighbors; </b>they<b> </b>may give you valuable perspective on wind in your neighborhood, especially if your neighbors are wind-energy users.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Verify energy claims from wind generator professionals","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Many wind generator inventors, manufacturers, and installers make claims about how much energy you can get from their idea or product, but how can you know whether those energy claims are realistic, ambitious, or outright scams? In all cases, you should seek real-world confirmation of estimates and check your wind power professional&#8217;s numbers.</p>\n<p>To test for &#8220;enthusiastic&#8221; estimates from inventors, manufacturers, or installers, do the following:</p>\n<ol class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Verify the average wind speed the professional or manufacturer is using as the basis of the claim.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">Without an accurate average wind speed from your actual tower height, you can&#8217;t get an accurate prediction of wind energy on your site.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Verify the <i>swept area</i> (the area that the blades sweep) of the wind generator.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">For horizontal-axis machines, the swept area equals the rotor radius (half of the diameter) squared times Pi (3.14 if your calculator doesn&#8217;t have a Pi button). For vertical-axis wind generators, take height times width for swept area; multiply that total by 0.65 for Darrieus-style vertical-axis turbines.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Multiply the swept area (in square feet) by the average wind speed cubed (in miles per hour), and divide that total by 32,000 for an estimate of average daily kWh production from a typical machine.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">Multiply your final total by 30 to get your average monthly energy in kWh and 365 for annual energy in kWh.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Check this prediction against manufacturer claims or installer production estimates.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\"><b></b>If the manufacturer or installer claim is 50 percent or more above your estimate, the machine may possibly be <i>very</i> efficient, but you&#8217;re probably looking at an exaggerated claim.</p>\n</li>\n</ol>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"sponsorAd":"","sponsorEbookTitle":"","sponsorEbookLink":"","sponsorEbookImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Explore","lifeExpectancy":"One year","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-04-07T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":209451},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-26T22:45:44+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-03-31T15:38:47+00:00","timestamp":"2022-09-14T18:19:33+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928},{"name":"Composting","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33929"},"slug":"composting","categoryId":33929}],"title":"Making Compost ― Black Gold for Your Organic Garden","strippedTitle":"making compost ― black gold for your organic garden","slug":"making-compost-black-gold-for-your-organic-garden","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Compost is like black gold because, if tended to properly, is free, organic and the best way to create healthy garden soil.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"The best and most refined of organic matters is <i>compost,</i> which is organic matter and/or manures that have decomposed until they resemble loamy soil.\r\n\r\nThoroughly decomposed compost contains lots of <em>humus</em> — the beneficial, soil-improving material your plants need. Whether the original source was grass clippings, sawdust, animal manure, or vegetable scraps from your kitchen, all organic matter eventually becomes compost.\r\n\r\nMaking your own compost is probably the simplest way to ensure high quality compost and save some money. It's really not as complicated as you may think: The many commercial composting bins and containers on the market make it a mess-free and hassle-free process.\r\n\r\nA well-constructed compost pile — built with the proper dimensions and maintained correctly — heats up fast; decomposes uniformly and quickly; kills many diseases, insects, and weed seeds; doesn't smell; and is easy to turn and maintain. Conversely, a pile just thrown together rarely heats up and, therefore, takes longer to decompose. This type of <i>cold composting</i> doesn't kill any diseases, insects, or weed seeds; may smell bad; and definitely looks messy.\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">Containing your compost pile makes it look neater, helps you maintain the correct moisture, and prevents animals from getting into it. You can build your own, as shown in Figure 1, or buy a commercial home composting unit.</p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"figure\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/0-07645-5320-8_0402.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></div>\r\n<span class=\"caption\"><b>Figure 1:</b> Build a simple wooden bin to hold your compost pile.</span>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">The advantages of a commercial composter include the availability of a wide range of attractive sizes and shapes and ease of use. Choose from box-shaped plastic and wooden bins and barrels or elevated and easy-to-turn tumblers, as shown in Figure 2.</p>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">Store-bought bins are costly, however, and produce only small quantities of compost at a time, especially compared to a homemade bin that's built from scrap lumber or wire.</p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"figure\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/0-07645-5320-8_0403.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></div>\r\n<span class=\"caption\"><b>Figure 2:</b> Commercial composters help you make compost yourself.</span>\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" >How to build a good compost pile</h2>\r\nHere's how you build a good compost pile:\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Choose a shady location. </strong>Make it out of the way, but still within view so that you don't forget about the pile. The soil under it should be well drained.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Make a bin</strong>. Create a wire cylinder that's 3- to 4-feet in diameter or build a three-sided box (similar to the one in Figure 1), that's 4 to 5-feet high and wide.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Add brown materials</strong>. Add a 6-inch layer of \"brown\" organic matter — such as hay, straw, old leaves, and sawdust — to the bottom of the container.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Add green materials.</strong> Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of \"green\" organic matter, such as green grass clippings, manure, table scraps, or even high-nitrogen fertilizer, such as cottonseed meal, on top of the brown layer.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Repeat these layers. </strong>Water each layer as you go, until the pile is 4 to 5-feet tall and fills the bin. A smaller pile won't heat up well and a larger pile can be difficult to manage.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Within two days, mix the layers together thoroughly</strong>. Particle size should be varied, smaller particles hasten decomposition.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Cover the pile with a tarp. </strong>This keeps rain away and preserves moisture. If the pile gets too soggy or too dry, it won't heat up.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" >What to add, and what not to add</h2>\r\nNot all organic matter is good for the compost pile. Following, is a look at what to add to a pile, including ratios, and what not to add.\r\n<h3>What to add to the pile or composter</h3>\r\nWhat you put in the compost pile is up to you — just remember that it needs to be from an organic material. Here's a short list of possibilities:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Hay, straw, pine needles</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Leaves</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Kitchen scraps (egg shells, old bread, vegetable and fruit scraps)</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Animal manure, except for dog, cat, pig, or human</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Old vegetables, flowers, or trimmings from trees and shrubs</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Sawdust</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Wood chips</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Weeds</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Shredded black-and-white newspaper. (In the past, color printing used heavy metals in the ink. Most color printing now uses soy-based inks, but it's better to avoid them in the garden altogether to be on the safe side.)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>What not to add</h3>\r\nSome items don't belong in your compost pile. While hot compost piles can kill off many diseases, weed seeds, and insects, it's not a sure thing, and some of these unpleasant guests may survive to invade your garden again. Certain materials can also invite unwanted wildlife to the pile or spread human diseases.\r\n\r\nAvoid adding the following to your compost bin:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Kitchen scraps like meats, oils, fish, dairy products, and bones. They attract unwanted animals, such as rats and raccoons, to the pile.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Weeds that have gone to seed or that spread by their roots, such as quackgrass</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Diseased or insect-infested vegetable or flower plants</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Herbicide-treated grass clippings or weeds</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Dog, cat, or pig feces</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Ratios for adding materials to the compost pile</h3>\r\nIn composting corners, you often hear about the c<i>arbon to nitrogen (C/N) ratio.</i> Basically, all organic matter can be divided into carbon-rich (brown stuff) and nitrogen-rich (green stuff) materials. Using the right mixture of brown to green stuff when building a compost pile encourages the pile to heat up and decompose efficiently.\r\n\r\nAlthough nearly any combination of organic materials eventually decomposes, for the fastest and most efficient compost pile in town, strike the correct balance (C/N ratio) between the two types of material — usually 25 to 1 (that is, 25 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen).\r\n\r\nTable 1 shows which common compost materials are high in carbon and which materials are high in nitrogen. Notice that the softer materials, such as fresh grass clippings, tend to be higher in nitrogen than hard materials, such as sawdust. Mix these together to form a pile with an average C/N ratio of 25-to-1 to 30-to-1, and you'll be well on your way to beautiful compost.\r\n\r\nUse the following carbon/nitrogen ratios as guidelines. Actual ratios vary depending on the sources of the materials and other factors. And speaking of sources — be sure that your compost materials haven't been contaminated with pesticides or other chemicals.\r\n<table class=\"article-table\" border=\"1\" cellpadding=\"7\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr class=\"article-table-row\">\r\n<td valign=\"top\"><b><i>Material and C/N Ratio</i></b>\r\n\r\nTable scraps, 15:1\r\n\r\nGrass clippings, 19:1\r\n\r\nOld manure, 20:1\r\n\r\nFresh alfalfa hay, 12:1\r\n\r\nFruit waste, 25:1\r\n\r\nCorn stalks, 60:1\r\n\r\nOld leaves, 80:1\r\n\r\nStraw, 80:1\r\n\r\nPaper, 170:1\r\n\r\nSawdust, 500:1\r\n\r\nWood, 700:1</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\n<h2 id=\"tab3\" >Quick and easy compost recipes</h2>\r\nTo make the most compost in the shortest amount of time, try some of these proven recipes. For each recipe, mix the ingredients thoroughly and follow the directions in the next section. Depending on weather and compost ingredients, you should have ready-to-use compost within one to two months.\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><b>Recipe #1:</b> Four parts kitchen scraps from fruits and vegetables, 2 parts chicken or cow manure, 1 part shredded newspaper (black ink only), and 1 part shredded dry leaves.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><b>Recipe #2:</b> Two parts kitchen scraps, 1 part chicken manure, and 1 part shredded leaves.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><b>Recipe #3:</b> Two parts grass clippings, 1 part chicken manure, and 1 part shredded leaves.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"tab4\" >Keeping your compost pile happy</h2>\r\nA hot pile is a happy pile. If you follow the method of just throwing everything together, the pile will rarely heat up. If you follow the method of building the pile carefully with a balanced C/N ratio, the pile will start to cook within a week. Now you need to keep it cooking. Here's the procedure:\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Keep the pile moist by periodically watering it</strong>. Dig into the pile about 1 foot to see if it's moist. If not, water the pile thoroughly, but not so that it's soggy. The pile needs air, too, and adding too much water removes air spaces. If you built the pile with moist ingredients, such as kitchen scraps, it won't need watering at first.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Turn the pile when it cools down</strong>. Using a garden fork, remove the outside layers and put them aside. Remove the inside layers into another pile and then switch. Place the outside layers in the center of the new pile and the inside layers along the outside of the new pile.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Let it cook again</strong>. How hot it gets and how long it cooks depends on the ratio of C/N materials in the pile and whether you have the correct moisture levels.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>When it's cool, turn it again</strong>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<p class=\"article-list\">You should have finished compost after two to three turnings. The finished product should be cool, crumbly, dark colored, and earthy smelling.</p>\r\nSometimes, a compost pile never heats up, smells bad, or contains pieces of undecomposed materials. Chances are that one of the following conditions occurred:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The pile was too wet or dry.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>You added too many carbon materials and not enough nitrogen materials.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The pieces of material were too big or packed together. Shred leaves, branches, and pieces of wood to decompose more quickly.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The pile was too small.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nYou can find lots of compost aids on the market. <i>Bioactivators</i> — packages of concentrated microbes — are one of the most popular because they can speed the decomposition process. These microbes occur naturally, however, and many are already present in a well-constructed compost pile. Save your money and use microbe-rich compost materials instead.","description":"The best and most refined of organic matters is <i>compost,</i> which is organic matter and/or manures that have decomposed until they resemble loamy soil.\r\n\r\nThoroughly decomposed compost contains lots of <em>humus</em> — the beneficial, soil-improving material your plants need. Whether the original source was grass clippings, sawdust, animal manure, or vegetable scraps from your kitchen, all organic matter eventually becomes compost.\r\n\r\nMaking your own compost is probably the simplest way to ensure high quality compost and save some money. It's really not as complicated as you may think: The many commercial composting bins and containers on the market make it a mess-free and hassle-free process.\r\n\r\nA well-constructed compost pile — built with the proper dimensions and maintained correctly — heats up fast; decomposes uniformly and quickly; kills many diseases, insects, and weed seeds; doesn't smell; and is easy to turn and maintain. Conversely, a pile just thrown together rarely heats up and, therefore, takes longer to decompose. This type of <i>cold composting</i> doesn't kill any diseases, insects, or weed seeds; may smell bad; and definitely looks messy.\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">Containing your compost pile makes it look neater, helps you maintain the correct moisture, and prevents animals from getting into it. You can build your own, as shown in Figure 1, or buy a commercial home composting unit.</p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"figure\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/0-07645-5320-8_0402.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></div>\r\n<span class=\"caption\"><b>Figure 1:</b> Build a simple wooden bin to hold your compost pile.</span>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">The advantages of a commercial composter include the availability of a wide range of attractive sizes and shapes and ease of use. Choose from box-shaped plastic and wooden bins and barrels or elevated and easy-to-turn tumblers, as shown in Figure 2.</p>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">Store-bought bins are costly, however, and produce only small quantities of compost at a time, especially compared to a homemade bin that's built from scrap lumber or wire.</p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"figure\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/0-07645-5320-8_0403.jpg\" border=\"0\" /></div>\r\n<span class=\"caption\"><b>Figure 2:</b> Commercial composters help you make compost yourself.</span>\r\n<h2 id=\"tab1\" >How to build a good compost pile</h2>\r\nHere's how you build a good compost pile:\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Choose a shady location. </strong>Make it out of the way, but still within view so that you don't forget about the pile. The soil under it should be well drained.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Make a bin</strong>. Create a wire cylinder that's 3- to 4-feet in diameter or build a three-sided box (similar to the one in Figure 1), that's 4 to 5-feet high and wide.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Add brown materials</strong>. Add a 6-inch layer of \"brown\" organic matter — such as hay, straw, old leaves, and sawdust — to the bottom of the container.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Add green materials.</strong> Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of \"green\" organic matter, such as green grass clippings, manure, table scraps, or even high-nitrogen fertilizer, such as cottonseed meal, on top of the brown layer.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Repeat these layers. </strong>Water each layer as you go, until the pile is 4 to 5-feet tall and fills the bin. A smaller pile won't heat up well and a larger pile can be difficult to manage.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Within two days, mix the layers together thoroughly</strong>. Particle size should be varied, smaller particles hasten decomposition.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Cover the pile with a tarp. </strong>This keeps rain away and preserves moisture. If the pile gets too soggy or too dry, it won't heat up.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<h2 id=\"tab2\" >What to add, and what not to add</h2>\r\nNot all organic matter is good for the compost pile. Following, is a look at what to add to a pile, including ratios, and what not to add.\r\n<h3>What to add to the pile or composter</h3>\r\nWhat you put in the compost pile is up to you — just remember that it needs to be from an organic material. Here's a short list of possibilities:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Hay, straw, pine needles</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Leaves</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Kitchen scraps (egg shells, old bread, vegetable and fruit scraps)</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Animal manure, except for dog, cat, pig, or human</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Old vegetables, flowers, or trimmings from trees and shrubs</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Sawdust</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Wood chips</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Weeds</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Shredded black-and-white newspaper. (In the past, color printing used heavy metals in the ink. Most color printing now uses soy-based inks, but it's better to avoid them in the garden altogether to be on the safe side.)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>What not to add</h3>\r\nSome items don't belong in your compost pile. While hot compost piles can kill off many diseases, weed seeds, and insects, it's not a sure thing, and some of these unpleasant guests may survive to invade your garden again. Certain materials can also invite unwanted wildlife to the pile or spread human diseases.\r\n\r\nAvoid adding the following to your compost bin:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Kitchen scraps like meats, oils, fish, dairy products, and bones. They attract unwanted animals, such as rats and raccoons, to the pile.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Weeds that have gone to seed or that spread by their roots, such as quackgrass</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Diseased or insect-infested vegetable or flower plants</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Herbicide-treated grass clippings or weeds</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"article-ul2\">Dog, cat, or pig feces</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h3>Ratios for adding materials to the compost pile</h3>\r\nIn composting corners, you often hear about the c<i>arbon to nitrogen (C/N) ratio.</i> Basically, all organic matter can be divided into carbon-rich (brown stuff) and nitrogen-rich (green stuff) materials. Using the right mixture of brown to green stuff when building a compost pile encourages the pile to heat up and decompose efficiently.\r\n\r\nAlthough nearly any combination of organic materials eventually decomposes, for the fastest and most efficient compost pile in town, strike the correct balance (C/N ratio) between the two types of material — usually 25 to 1 (that is, 25 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen).\r\n\r\nTable 1 shows which common compost materials are high in carbon and which materials are high in nitrogen. Notice that the softer materials, such as fresh grass clippings, tend to be higher in nitrogen than hard materials, such as sawdust. Mix these together to form a pile with an average C/N ratio of 25-to-1 to 30-to-1, and you'll be well on your way to beautiful compost.\r\n\r\nUse the following carbon/nitrogen ratios as guidelines. Actual ratios vary depending on the sources of the materials and other factors. And speaking of sources — be sure that your compost materials haven't been contaminated with pesticides or other chemicals.\r\n<table class=\"article-table\" border=\"1\" cellpadding=\"7\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr class=\"article-table-row\">\r\n<td valign=\"top\"><b><i>Material and C/N Ratio</i></b>\r\n\r\nTable scraps, 15:1\r\n\r\nGrass clippings, 19:1\r\n\r\nOld manure, 20:1\r\n\r\nFresh alfalfa hay, 12:1\r\n\r\nFruit waste, 25:1\r\n\r\nCorn stalks, 60:1\r\n\r\nOld leaves, 80:1\r\n\r\nStraw, 80:1\r\n\r\nPaper, 170:1\r\n\r\nSawdust, 500:1\r\n\r\nWood, 700:1</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</tbody>\r\n</table>\r\n<h2 id=\"tab3\" >Quick and easy compost recipes</h2>\r\nTo make the most compost in the shortest amount of time, try some of these proven recipes. For each recipe, mix the ingredients thoroughly and follow the directions in the next section. Depending on weather and compost ingredients, you should have ready-to-use compost within one to two months.\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><b>Recipe #1:</b> Four parts kitchen scraps from fruits and vegetables, 2 parts chicken or cow manure, 1 part shredded newspaper (black ink only), and 1 part shredded dry leaves.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><b>Recipe #2:</b> Two parts kitchen scraps, 1 part chicken manure, and 1 part shredded leaves.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><b>Recipe #3:</b> Two parts grass clippings, 1 part chicken manure, and 1 part shredded leaves.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<h2 id=\"tab4\" >Keeping your compost pile happy</h2>\r\nA hot pile is a happy pile. If you follow the method of just throwing everything together, the pile will rarely heat up. If you follow the method of building the pile carefully with a balanced C/N ratio, the pile will start to cook within a week. Now you need to keep it cooking. Here's the procedure:\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Keep the pile moist by periodically watering it</strong>. Dig into the pile about 1 foot to see if it's moist. If not, water the pile thoroughly, but not so that it's soggy. The pile needs air, too, and adding too much water removes air spaces. If you built the pile with moist ingredients, such as kitchen scraps, it won't need watering at first.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Turn the pile when it cools down</strong>. Using a garden fork, remove the outside layers and put them aside. Remove the inside layers into another pile and then switch. Place the outside layers in the center of the new pile and the inside layers along the outside of the new pile.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>Let it cook again</strong>. How hot it gets and how long it cooks depends on the ratio of C/N materials in the pile and whether you have the correct moisture levels.</li>\r\n \t<li class=\"number\"><strong>When it's cool, turn it again</strong>.</li>\r\n</ol>\r\n<p class=\"article-list\">You should have finished compost after two to three turnings. The finished product should be cool, crumbly, dark colored, and earthy smelling.</p>\r\nSometimes, a compost pile never heats up, smells bad, or contains pieces of undecomposed materials. Chances are that one of the following conditions occurred:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The pile was too wet or dry.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>You added too many carbon materials and not enough nitrogen materials.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The pieces of material were too big or packed together. Shred leaves, branches, and pieces of wood to decompose more quickly.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>The pile was too small.</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nYou can find lots of compost aids on the market. <i>Bioactivators</i> — packages of concentrated microbes — are one of the most popular because they can speed the decomposition process. These microbes occur naturally, however, and many are already present in a well-constructed compost pile. Save your money and use microbe-rich compost materials instead.","blurb":"","authors":[],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":33929,"title":"Composting","slug":"composting","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33929"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":33922,"title":"Organic Gardening","slug":"organic","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33922"}},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[{"label":"How to build a good compost pile","target":"#tab1"},{"label":"What to add, and what not to add","target":"#tab2"},{"label":"Quick and easy compost recipes","target":"#tab3"},{"label":"Keeping your compost pile happy","target":"#tab4"}],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":209266,"title":"Composting For Dummies Cheat 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Compost","slug":"surefire-tips-for-speedy-compost","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194184"}},{"articleId":194180,"title":"Items to Keep Out of Your Compost","slug":"items-to-keep-out-of-your-compost","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194180"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":0,"slug":null,"isbn":null,"categoryList":null,"amazon":null,"image":null,"title":null,"testBankPinActivationLink":null,"bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":null,"authors":null,"_links":null},"collections":[{"title":"Making Things Grow","slug":"making-things-grow","collectionId":291872}],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;composting&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[null]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221b355efc9\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;composting&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[null]}]\" 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Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928},{"name":"Green Building","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33930"},"slug":"green-building","categoryId":33930}],"title":"Solar Power Your Home For Dummies Cheat Sheet","strippedTitle":"solar power your home for dummies cheat sheet","slug":"solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Take advantage of these practical solar power projects to purify your water, enjoy a portable shower, and cool your house.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"The words “solar power” often bring to mind solar panels and photovoltaic (PV) solar systems, but you can harness the sun’s energy in a number of smaller ways. The practical and affordable solar projects listed here are ones anyone can build or take advantage of. They explain how to use solar energy to purify drinking water, enjoy a portable shower, and cool your house.","description":"The words “solar power” often bring to mind solar panels and photovoltaic (PV) solar systems, but you can harness the sun’s energy in a number of smaller ways. The practical and affordable solar projects listed here are ones anyone can build or take advantage of. They explain how to use solar energy to purify drinking water, enjoy a portable shower, and cool your house.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":10024,"name":"Rik DeGunther","slug":"rik-degunther","description":" <p><b>Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p> ","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10024"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":33930,"title":"Green Building","slug":"green-building","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33930"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":194406,"title":"How to Build a Solar-Powered Water Purifier","slug":"how-to-build-a-solar-powered-water-purifier","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194406"}},{"articleId":194405,"title":"Installing a Solar-Powered Attic Vent Fan","slug":"installing-a-solar-powered-attic-vent-fan","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194405"}},{"articleId":194400,"title":"How to Use a Portable Solar Shower","slug":"how-to-use-a-portable-solar-shower","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194400"}},{"articleId":188690,"title":"Assess Your Climate for Solar Power Use","slug":"assess-your-climate-for-solar-power-use","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/188690"}},{"articleId":188689,"title":"The Costs of Solar Installation and Upkeep","slug":"the-costs-of-solar-installation-and-upkeep","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/188689"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":207270,"title":"Turning Broken Plates into Tabletops","slug":"turning-broken-plates-into-tabletops","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/207270"}},{"articleId":194406,"title":"How to Build a Solar-Powered Water Purifier","slug":"how-to-build-a-solar-powered-water-purifier","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194406"}},{"articleId":194405,"title":"Installing a Solar-Powered Attic Vent Fan","slug":"installing-a-solar-powered-attic-vent-fan","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194405"}},{"articleId":194400,"title":"How to Use a Portable Solar Shower","slug":"how-to-use-a-portable-solar-shower","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194400"}},{"articleId":188690,"title":"Assess Your Climate for Solar Power Use","slug":"assess-your-climate-for-solar-power-use","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/188690"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282589,"slug":"solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-2nd-edition","isbn":"9780470596784","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/0470596783-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-2nd-edition-cover-9780470596784-202x255.jpg","width":202,"height":255},"title":"Solar Power Your Home For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":"<p><b data-author-id=\"10024\">Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p>","authors":[{"authorId":10024,"name":"Rik DeGunther","slug":"rik-degunther","description":" <p><b>Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p> ","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10024"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;green-building&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470596784&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221b2febc71\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;green-building&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470596784&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221b2fec666\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","articleList":[{"articleId":194406,"title":"How to Build a Solar-Powered Water Purifier","slug":"how-to-build-a-solar-powered-water-purifier","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194406"}},{"articleId":194400,"title":"How to Use a Portable Solar Shower","slug":"how-to-use-a-portable-solar-shower","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194400"}},{"articleId":194405,"title":"Installing a Solar-Powered Attic Vent Fan","slug":"installing-a-solar-powered-attic-vent-fan","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194405"}}],"content":[{"title":"How to build a solar-powered water purifier","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Using the sun to purify drinking water is a great solar project for the do-it-yourselfer. A solar-powered purification system the size of a microwave oven can yield up to 3 gallons of purified drinking water on a sunny day.</p>\n<p>Here’s what you need for a basic solar powered water purifier like the one shown in the figure:</p>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Wooden or sheet metal enclosure</td>\n<td>Reflective material like aluminum foil</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Black paint, used for barbeque pits</td>\n<td>Sheet of glass</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Insulation (the white foam kind is fine)</td>\n<td>Glue (silicon sealant or similar weather-resistant<br />\nmaterial)</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Black tray that can absorb heat</td>\n<td>Catch trough and container for purified water</td>\n</tr>\n</tbody>\n</table>\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width: 423px;\">\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/164783.image0.jpg\" alt=\"A cross-section of a water purification system.\" width=\"423\" height=\"378\" /></p>\n<div class=\"imageCaption\">A cross-section of a water purification system.</div>\n</div>\n<p>To assemble your solar-powered water purifier, find a place near a water source (for easy filling) and follow these steps:</p>\n<ol class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Paint the exterior of the wooden or sheet metal enclosure black to enhance absorption.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Install the reflective surface at the back and side walls of the enclosure and glue the insulation to the bottom.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Put a tray of contaminated water inside the enclosure and place the glass on top.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Arrange the catch trough at the bottom of the glass, angled downward to a container (like a plastic jug) to collect the purified water.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Aim the contraption toward the sun.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">That’s it — you’re done!</p>\n</li>\n</ol>\n<p>The first few times you use this device, the water may taste a little odd. Let the system “sweat” for a few weeks, and the bad taste will go away.</p>\n"},{"title":"How to use a portable solar shower","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>You can use a portable shower that uses solar energy to heat the water. Solar showers are convenient for camping and backpacking. You can hang one out by your swimming pool for a quick, simple rinse. To use a solar shower, follow these steps:</p>\n<ol class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Fill a specially constructed plastic bag with water and then place it in direct sunlight to heat up.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">The top of the 5-gallon bag is clear, and the back wall is black to absorb maximum sunlight. To warm the water of your portable shower, simply position the bag so that the clear top faces the sun. Most portable showers come with a thermometer so you know when the water’s reached a comfortable temperature.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">When the water’s hot enough, hang the bag from a tree for a gravity-fed, hot shower.</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">Portable showers can get really hot, over 120°F, so beware. Always sample the temperature before you step in.</p>\n</li>\n</ol>\n"},{"title":"Installing a solar-powered attic vent fan","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>An attic vent fan powered by solar energy can help cool your home. During the summer, attic temperatures can reach over 160°F. All that heat stays up there at night, and it sinks into your house through the insulation in your ceiling. A properly designed solar attic vent fan can remove a lot of air over the course of a day, cooling your house in the process.</p>\n<p>Attic vent fans come in two forms: one-piece units and distributed units. A one-piece unit like the one in the figure costs around $300 and is easy to install. Because you don’t need to run expensive electrical power up to the fan, you can install one just about anywhere you want. You don’t even need to go into the attic space. Simply cut a round hole in your roof, pull the shingles back, slide the unit up under the shingles, and drop it into the hole. Seal for weatherproofing, and you’re done.</p>\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width: 390px;\">\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/164786.image0.jpg\" alt=\"A one-piece attic vent fan.\" width=\"390\" height=\"222\" /></p>\n<div class=\"imageCaption\">A one-piece attic vent fan.</div>\n</div>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"sponsorAd":"","sponsorEbookTitle":"","sponsorEbookLink":"","sponsorEbookImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Explore","lifeExpectancy":"Two years","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-03-15T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":209295},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-27T16:57:25+00:00","modifiedTime":"2022-03-01T19:23:11+00:00","timestamp":"2022-09-14T18:19:19+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928},{"name":"Composting","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33929"},"slug":"composting","categoryId":33929}],"title":"Composting For Dummies Cheat Sheet","strippedTitle":"composting for dummies cheat sheet","slug":"composting-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Learn the benefits of using compost in your garden, what to add to it, items to keep out of compost, and how to get it started quickly.","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"By composting food scraps, yard waste, and other ingredients, you create nutrient-rich compost to add to your garden and landscape, and you minimize the waste sent to landfills. Home composting is a great way to be greener and do something good for the environment while seeing major benefits right at home.","description":"By composting food scraps, yard waste, and other ingredients, you create nutrient-rich compost to add to your garden and landscape, and you minimize the waste sent to landfills. Home composting is a great way to be greener and do something good for the environment while seeing major benefits right at home.","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":9162,"name":"Cathy Cromell","slug":"cathy-cromell","description":"Cathy Cromell is a writer and editor who's written extensively about gardening and landscaping. She is a certified master gardener, master composter, and master entomologist.","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9162"}},{"authorId":9156,"name":"The National Gardening Association","slug":"the-national-gardening-association","description":"","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9156"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":33929,"title":"Composting","slug":"composting","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33929"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":194188,"title":"Benefits of Adding Compost to Your Garden","slug":"benefits-of-adding-compost-to-your-garden","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194188"}},{"articleId":194186,"title":"Mix in Brown and Green Compost Ingredients","slug":"mix-in-brown-and-green-compost-ingredients","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194186"}},{"articleId":194184,"title":"Surefire Tips for Speedy Compost","slug":"surefire-tips-for-speedy-compost","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194184"}},{"articleId":194179,"title":"Shopping for Composting Tools","slug":"shopping-for-composting-tools","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194179"}},{"articleId":194180,"title":"Items to Keep Out of Your Compost","slug":"items-to-keep-out-of-your-compost","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194180"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":199862,"title":"Making Compost ― Black Gold for Your Organic Garden","slug":"making-compost-black-gold-for-your-organic-garden","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/199862"}},{"articleId":194188,"title":"Benefits of Adding Compost to Your Garden","slug":"benefits-of-adding-compost-to-your-garden","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194188"}},{"articleId":194186,"title":"Mix in Brown and Green Compost Ingredients","slug":"mix-in-brown-and-green-compost-ingredients","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194186"}},{"articleId":194184,"title":"Surefire Tips for Speedy Compost","slug":"surefire-tips-for-speedy-compost","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194184"}},{"articleId":194179,"title":"Shopping for Composting Tools","slug":"shopping-for-composting-tools","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194179"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282100,"slug":"composting-for-dummies","isbn":"9780470581612","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0470581611/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0470581611/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/0470581611-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0470581611/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/0470581611/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/composting-for-dummies-cover-9780470581612-169x255.jpg","width":169,"height":255},"title":"Composting For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":true,"authorsInfo":"<p><b data-author-id=\"9162\">Cathy Cromell</b> is a writer and editor who's written extensively about gardening and landscaping. She is a certified master gardener, master composter, and master entomologist. The <b data-author-id=\"10266\">National Gardening Association</b> is the leading garden-based educational nonprofit organization in the United States, providing resources at garden.org and kidsgardening.org.</p>","authors":[{"authorId":9162,"name":"Cathy Cromell","slug":"cathy-cromell","description":"Cathy Cromell is a writer and editor who's written extensively about gardening and landscaping. She is a certified master gardener, master composter, and master entomologist.","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/9162"}},{"authorId":10266,"name":"National Gardening Association","slug":"national-gardening-association","description":"The National Gardening Association is the leading garden-based educational nonprofit organization in the United States, providing resources at garden.org and kidsgardening.org.","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10266"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;composting&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470581612&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221b2720185\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;composting&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470581612&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221b2720cd2\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Cheat Sheet","articleList":[{"articleId":194188,"title":"Benefits of Adding Compost to Your Garden","slug":"benefits-of-adding-compost-to-your-garden","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194188"}},{"articleId":194179,"title":"Shopping for Composting Tools","slug":"shopping-for-composting-tools","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194179"}},{"articleId":194186,"title":"Mix in Brown and Green Compost Ingredients","slug":"mix-in-brown-and-green-compost-ingredients","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194186"}},{"articleId":194180,"title":"Items to Keep Out of Your Compost","slug":"items-to-keep-out-of-your-compost","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194180"}},{"articleId":194184,"title":"Surefire Tips for Speedy Compost","slug":"surefire-tips-for-speedy-compost","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","composting"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194184"}}],"content":[{"title":"The benefits of adding compost to your garden","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Composting provides you with rich organic matter that does wonders to improve the quality of your garden soil. Whether you sprinkle compost on the surface of the soil or work it in, your garden plants and landscape will grow healthier and stronger thanks to the addition.</p>\n<p>Your garden benefits from compost in the following ways:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Incorporates organic matter to feed microorganisms and macroorganisms that maintain a healthy soil food web</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Enriches soil with nutrients for plant growth</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Releases nutrients slowly so they don’t leach away as some synthetic fertilizers do</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Improves soil structure</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Promotes drainage and aeration in clay soil</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Enhances moisture and nutrient retention in sandy soil</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Reduces soil compaction</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Inhibits erosion</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Suppresses soil-borne diseases and pests</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\">Attracts earthworms, nature’s best soil builders</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Shopping for composting tools","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>You need very little equipment to start composting. Before you buy, visit garden centers or home improvement and hardware stores and try out some hand tools. Their length and weight should be comfortable for you to wield over extended periods of turning or shoveling organic matter. The basic tools to get you started composting are</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Compost fork or pitchfork:</b> Long, thin tines allow you to hoist and toss large loads of organic matter efficiently.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Shovel or spade:</b> These tools help you turn almost-finished compost or incorporate finished compost into your garden. If you already own either one, you’re set.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Hose and spray nozzle:</b> Moisture is an essential component of a fast-acting compost pile. Your hose should reach easily from the outdoor faucet to your compost area. Add an adjustable nozzle that allows you to fine-tune the spray level, and turn it off to conserve water while you’re adding or mixing organic matter.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Mix in brown and green compost ingredients","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Organic matter high in carbon — what composters commonly call <em>browns</em> — provides energy for decomposer organisms as they consume and break down the contents of your compost pile. Organic matter high in nitrogen — called <em>greens</em> — supplies the decomposers with protein. Maintain well-fed composting organisms with these varied ingredients.</p>\n<table border=\"0\">\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<th><strong>Browns</strong></th>\n<th><strong>Greens</strong></th>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Dry leaves</td>\n<td>Kitchen scraps</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Woody plant trimmings</td>\n<td>Coffee grounds and filters</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Straw</td>\n<td>Leafy plant trimmings</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Pine needles</td>\n<td>Grass clippings</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Sawdust</td>\n<td>Manure</td>\n</tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Paper products</td>\n<td>Feathers, fur, and hair</td>\n</tr>\n</tbody>\n</table>\n"},{"title":"What to keep out of your compost","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>Your compost pile isn’t a trash can. Some materials definitely don’t qualify as compost ingredients because they contain pathogens, attract pests, or cause other problems. You must take care to add only the right organic ingredients to feed the decomposition process. Leave out the following items:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Ashes from charcoal barbecues:</b> Dispose of this residue in the trash, not your compost pile or bin. It contains sulfur oxides and other chemicals you don’t want to incorporate into your compost.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Ashes from fireplaces or wood stoves:</b> Small amounts of ash (a few handfuls per pile) are okay if you have acidic soil. Never use wood ashes if your soil is alkaline, however, because the ash increases alkalinity.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Disease- or insect-infested plant material:</b> Pathogens and pests can survive the composting process if the heap doesn’t get hot enough. Just leave this material out — better safe than sorry!</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Meat, bones, grease, fats, oils, or dairy products:</b> This kitchen waste may turn rancid and attract rodents and other pests.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Waste:</b> Feces from cats (including soiled litter), dogs, birds, pigs, and humans may contain harmful pathogens that aren’t killed during decomposition.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Weeds with seed heads:</b> Toss the leafy foliage into your compost as a source of green nitrogen, but send weed seeds to the trash. If seeds survive the decomposition process, they’ll sprout wherever you spread finished compost.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"},{"title":"Surefire tips for speedy compost","thumb":null,"image":null,"content":"<p>A great thing about composting is that it can take as much or as little time as you want or need it to. If your time is limited and you want to speed up the process to get compost fast, follow these tips:</p>\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Increase the surface area of your ingredients.</b> Before adding it to your compost, chop, shred, crack, whack, and smack organic matter into small pieces. (It’s a good stress reliever!) Your effort increases total surface area and creates open wounds in the materials, allowing soil organisms easy access to begin consuming and breaking them down.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Take the damp sponge test.</b> Starting a compost pile with too-dry ingredients or allowing ingredients to dry out without remoistening is a direct route to slow decomposition. Fast-acting compost piles contain about 40 to 60 percent water. Squeeze handfuls of compost from various sections of the pile to check its moisture level. Everything should feel like a wrung-out sponge. Turn and rewet materials as needed to maintain this level of moisture.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Air it out.</b> Soil organisms require oxygen just as you do. When air supplies are depleted, the organisms die without reproducing in sufficient numbers to keep decomposition zipping along. Keep the little critters in your compost pile well-supplied with oxygen by turning the pile completely every week or two (or three).</p>\n<p class=\"child-para\">If your time is limited, stick a compost fork or aerating tool into the pile to stir things up. This action doesn’t generate as much oxygen throughout the pile as a total turnover, but it does an acceptable job and only takes a minute or two.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"sponsorAd":"","sponsorEbookTitle":"","sponsorEbookLink":"","sponsorEbookImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Explore","lifeExpectancy":"Five years","lifeExpectancySetFrom":"2022-03-01T00:00:00+00:00","dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":209266},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-26T20:43:01+00:00","modifiedTime":"2019-07-29T20:43:39+00:00","timestamp":"2022-09-14T18:17:14+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928},{"name":"Green Building","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33930"},"slug":"green-building","categoryId":33930}],"title":"How to Make Your Swimming Pool More Efficient","strippedTitle":"how to make your swimming pool more efficient","slug":"how-to-make-your-swimming-pool-more-efficient","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Boosting the efficiency of your swimming pool is an important first step in reducing your carbon footprint and moving toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Here'","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"Boosting the efficiency of your swimming pool is an important first step in reducing your carbon footprint and moving toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Here's how to make your swimming pool energy efficient so that when you add solar, you get the most bang for your buck:\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Reduce bends in the piping: </b>Sharp bends in the PVC piping slow down the flow and require more power to do the same job. Unfortunately, many pool installers completely fail this simple requirement. If your pipes are all over the place, rebuild the system. PVC is a cinch to work with.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Make sure that all valves are working properly:</b> If you have gate valves, replace them with ball valves, which are more efficient. Make sure that all ball valves are completely open or closed.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Keep the filter clean:</b> A dirty filter loads the pump, which costs a lot more power. If your filter is old, replace it. Cartridge filters are better than diatomaceous Earth.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_263130\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"535\"]<img class=\"wp-image-263130 size-full\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/cost-efficient-swimming-pool.png\" alt=\"swimming pool\" width=\"535\" height=\"307\" /> © Shutterstock/ Alena Ozerova[/caption]\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Install a smaller, higher efficiency pump, and run it less each day:</b> Use the smallest, most efficient pump possible — 3/4 horsepower is usually sufficient. If your pump is a few years old and wasn't designed with enough capacity for solar panel use, buying a new one will probably be economical. Most people will find that they can run their pool pump for much less time and still achieve satisfactory cleanliness. Give it a try.</p>\r\n<p class=\"child-para\">A large power pump filters your pool water faster, and some people like that because it means you can run the pump less (which means you listen to it less). But here's the problem: If you're planning on putting up solar panels, the amount of heat they put into the pool is a function of how much <i>time</i> water is flowing through them; the quantity of water isn't as important. So if you have a large pump that moves water quickly, you're not optimizing your solar panels.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Install windbreaks around your pool.</b> Wind can increase evaporation 300 percent or more, which wastes a lot of energy, much more than you may think.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>","description":"Boosting the efficiency of your swimming pool is an important first step in reducing your carbon footprint and moving toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Here's how to make your swimming pool energy efficient so that when you add solar, you get the most bang for your buck:\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Reduce bends in the piping: </b>Sharp bends in the PVC piping slow down the flow and require more power to do the same job. Unfortunately, many pool installers completely fail this simple requirement. If your pipes are all over the place, rebuild the system. PVC is a cinch to work with.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Make sure that all valves are working properly:</b> If you have gate valves, replace them with ball valves, which are more efficient. Make sure that all ball valves are completely open or closed.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Keep the filter clean:</b> A dirty filter loads the pump, which costs a lot more power. If your filter is old, replace it. Cartridge filters are better than diatomaceous Earth.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_263130\" align=\"alignnone\" width=\"535\"]<img class=\"wp-image-263130 size-full\" src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/cost-efficient-swimming-pool.png\" alt=\"swimming pool\" width=\"535\" height=\"307\" /> © Shutterstock/ Alena Ozerova[/caption]\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Install a smaller, higher efficiency pump, and run it less each day:</b> Use the smallest, most efficient pump possible — 3/4 horsepower is usually sufficient. If your pump is a few years old and wasn't designed with enough capacity for solar panel use, buying a new one will probably be economical. Most people will find that they can run their pool pump for much less time and still achieve satisfactory cleanliness. Give it a try.</p>\r\n<p class=\"child-para\">A large power pump filters your pool water faster, and some people like that because it means you can run the pump less (which means you listen to it less). But here's the problem: If you're planning on putting up solar panels, the amount of heat they put into the pool is a function of how much <i>time</i> water is flowing through them; the quantity of water isn't as important. So if you have a large pump that moves water quickly, you're not optimizing your solar panels.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n \t<li>\r\n<p class=\"first-para\"><b>Install windbreaks around your pool.</b> Wind can increase evaporation 300 percent or more, which wastes a lot of energy, much more than you may think.</p>\r\n</li>\r\n</ul>","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":10024,"name":"Rik DeGunther","slug":"rik-degunther","description":" <p><b>Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p> ","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10024"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":33930,"title":"Green Building","slug":"green-building","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33930"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":209295,"title":"Solar Power Your Home For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/209295"}},{"articleId":194406,"title":"How to Build a Solar-Powered Water Purifier","slug":"how-to-build-a-solar-powered-water-purifier","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194406"}},{"articleId":194405,"title":"Installing a Solar-Powered Attic Vent Fan","slug":"installing-a-solar-powered-attic-vent-fan","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194405"}},{"articleId":194400,"title":"How to Use a Portable Solar Shower","slug":"how-to-use-a-portable-solar-shower","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194400"}},{"articleId":188690,"title":"Assess Your Climate for Solar Power Use","slug":"assess-your-climate-for-solar-power-use","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/188690"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":209295,"title":"Solar Power Your Home For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/209295"}},{"articleId":207270,"title":"Turning Broken Plates into Tabletops","slug":"turning-broken-plates-into-tabletops","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/207270"}},{"articleId":194405,"title":"Installing a Solar-Powered Attic Vent Fan","slug":"installing-a-solar-powered-attic-vent-fan","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194405"}},{"articleId":194406,"title":"How to Build a Solar-Powered Water Purifier","slug":"how-to-build-a-solar-powered-water-purifier","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194406"}},{"articleId":194400,"title":"How to Use a Portable Solar Shower","slug":"how-to-use-a-portable-solar-shower","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194400"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282589,"slug":"solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-2nd-edition","isbn":"9780470596784","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/0470596783-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-2nd-edition-cover-9780470596784-202x255.jpg","width":202,"height":255},"title":"Solar Power Your Home For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":"<p><b data-author-id=\"10024\">Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p>","authors":[{"authorId":10024,"name":"Rik DeGunther","slug":"rik-degunther","description":" <p><b>Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p> ","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10024"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;green-building&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470596784&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221aaa1bd09\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;green-building&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470596784&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221aaa1c5d8\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Articles","articleList":null,"content":null,"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"sponsorAd":"","sponsorEbookTitle":"","sponsorEbookLink":"","sponsorEbookImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Explore","lifeExpectancy":null,"lifeExpectancySetFrom":null,"dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":188629},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-26T20:43:11+00:00","modifiedTime":"2019-07-10T19:54:10+00:00","timestamp":"2022-09-14T18:17:12+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928},{"name":"Green Building","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33930"},"slug":"green-building","categoryId":33930}],"title":"Solar Heating Systems for Your Pool","strippedTitle":"solar heating systems for your pool","slug":"solar-heating-systems-for-your-pool","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"You can heat your pool using solar power. Your pool system already includes the pump, controller, and filter, along with PVC pipes that route the water flow. Si","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"<p>You can heat your pool using solar power. Your pool system already includes the pump, controller, and filter, along with PVC pipes that route the water flow. Simply break into the PVC line after the filter and run a couple of flex hoses (or PVC, if you prefer) to the solar collector panel, which you can lay out on the ground or set against a hill to achieve some tilt toward the sun.</p>\r\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width:314px;\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/245361.image0.jpg\" width=\"314\" height=\"400\" alt=\"A simple swimming pool solar-heating system.\"/><div class=\"imageCaption\">A simple swimming pool solar-heating system.</div></div>\r\n<p>When the valve is closed, water runs exclusively through the solar collector panel, heating the water. As you open the valve, less water flows through the collector panel. In this way, you can adjust how much heat is going into your pool.</p>\r\n<p>Solar collector panels are available at most pool supply stores. Adaptors are sometimes necessary.</p>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">Here are some ways to run the system for best results:</p>\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">Place the solar collector panel where it sees the most sunlight when the pool pump is running. </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">If you place the solar collector panel on your roof, try to minimize resistance to the water flow. </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">Keep the solar panel out of the wind as much as possible. </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">For best heating results, run the pool pump during the sunniest time of the day; running it longer will result in more heat in the pool. </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">If you want to use two or more solar collector panels, connect them in parallel. </p>\r\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width:535px;\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/245362.image1.jpg\" width=\"535\" height=\"225\" alt=\"Flexible solar collector panels that are designed to fit together in a parallel ganged arrangement \"/><div class=\"imageCaption\">Flexible solar collector panels that are designed to fit together in a parallel ganged arrangement reduce the overall water pressure while heating the same amount of water.</div></div>\r\n </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>The general rule is to use a total collector surface area that's about half the surface area of your pool. But this varies quite a bit. Sizing your collector surface area depends on a number of factors:</p>\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>The pump's running time: </b>The longer it's on, the more heat you collect in the pool for a given collector size.</p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>Pool location: </b>If you have an above ground pool, the heat loss is much greater. You need a collector with more surface area.</p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>Solar potential when the pump is on: </b>Note how your solar panels are oriented. How much sunlight do you get? </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>Shade:</b> Cutting down Old Man Oak isn't much of an option if your blood is truly green. Otherwise, choose a larger collector.</p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>Wind: </b>If you have a lot of wind, your collectors will run inefficiently unless they are glazed.</p>\r\n </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Swimming pools cost a lot. If you don't have any kind of swimming pool heater, your useable season may be around four months of the year. If you install a swimming pool heating system, you can get eight months. This explains the popularity of pool heaters.</p>\r\n<p>In a full-scale, professional-grade swimming pool solar system, when the pump is on, the controller decides whether to activate the solar collectors by measuring the temperature at the collectors and the temperature of the pool water. When heat's available at the collector, the motor valve opens, and the pump moves water up into the collectors and back down to the swimming pool.</p>\r\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width:367px;\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/245363.image2.jpg\" width=\"367\" height=\"400\" alt=\"When the controller deactivates the motor valve and no longer allows water to pump into the collect\"/><div class=\"imageCaption\">When the controller deactivates the motor valve and no longer allows water to pump into the collectors, the vacuum breaker allows the system to purge itself of liquid.</div></div>","description":"<p>You can heat your pool using solar power. Your pool system already includes the pump, controller, and filter, along with PVC pipes that route the water flow. Simply break into the PVC line after the filter and run a couple of flex hoses (or PVC, if you prefer) to the solar collector panel, which you can lay out on the ground or set against a hill to achieve some tilt toward the sun.</p>\r\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width:314px;\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/245361.image0.jpg\" width=\"314\" height=\"400\" alt=\"A simple swimming pool solar-heating system.\"/><div class=\"imageCaption\">A simple swimming pool solar-heating system.</div></div>\r\n<p>When the valve is closed, water runs exclusively through the solar collector panel, heating the water. As you open the valve, less water flows through the collector panel. In this way, you can adjust how much heat is going into your pool.</p>\r\n<p>Solar collector panels are available at most pool supply stores. Adaptors are sometimes necessary.</p>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">Here are some ways to run the system for best results:</p>\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">Place the solar collector panel where it sees the most sunlight when the pool pump is running. </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">If you place the solar collector panel on your roof, try to minimize resistance to the water flow. </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">Keep the solar panel out of the wind as much as possible. </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">For best heating results, run the pool pump during the sunniest time of the day; running it longer will result in more heat in the pool. </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\">If you want to use two or more solar collector panels, connect them in parallel. </p>\r\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width:535px;\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/245362.image1.jpg\" width=\"535\" height=\"225\" alt=\"Flexible solar collector panels that are designed to fit together in a parallel ganged arrangement \"/><div class=\"imageCaption\">Flexible solar collector panels that are designed to fit together in a parallel ganged arrangement reduce the overall water pressure while heating the same amount of water.</div></div>\r\n </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>The general rule is to use a total collector surface area that's about half the surface area of your pool. But this varies quite a bit. Sizing your collector surface area depends on a number of factors:</p>\r\n<ul class=\"level-one\">\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>The pump's running time: </b>The longer it's on, the more heat you collect in the pool for a given collector size.</p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>Pool location: </b>If you have an above ground pool, the heat loss is much greater. You need a collector with more surface area.</p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>Solar potential when the pump is on: </b>Note how your solar panels are oriented. How much sunlight do you get? </p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>Shade:</b> Cutting down Old Man Oak isn't much of an option if your blood is truly green. Otherwise, choose a larger collector.</p>\r\n </li>\r\n <li><p class=\"first-para\"><b>Wind: </b>If you have a lot of wind, your collectors will run inefficiently unless they are glazed.</p>\r\n </li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<p>Swimming pools cost a lot. If you don't have any kind of swimming pool heater, your useable season may be around four months of the year. If you install a swimming pool heating system, you can get eight months. This explains the popularity of pool heaters.</p>\r\n<p>In a full-scale, professional-grade swimming pool solar system, when the pump is on, the controller decides whether to activate the solar collectors by measuring the temperature at the collectors and the temperature of the pool water. When heat's available at the collector, the motor valve opens, and the pump moves water up into the collectors and back down to the swimming pool.</p>\r\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width:367px;\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/245363.image2.jpg\" width=\"367\" height=\"400\" alt=\"When the controller deactivates the motor valve and no longer allows water to pump into the collect\"/><div class=\"imageCaption\">When the controller deactivates the motor valve and no longer allows water to pump into the collectors, the vacuum breaker allows the system to purge itself of liquid.</div></div>","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":10024,"name":"Rik DeGunther","slug":"rik-degunther","description":" <p><b>Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p> ","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10024"}}],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":33930,"title":"Green Building","slug":"green-building","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33930"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[{"articleId":209295,"title":"Solar Power Your Home For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/209295"}},{"articleId":194406,"title":"How to Build a Solar-Powered Water Purifier","slug":"how-to-build-a-solar-powered-water-purifier","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194406"}},{"articleId":194405,"title":"Installing a Solar-Powered Attic Vent Fan","slug":"installing-a-solar-powered-attic-vent-fan","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194405"}},{"articleId":194400,"title":"How to Use a Portable Solar Shower","slug":"how-to-use-a-portable-solar-shower","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194400"}},{"articleId":188690,"title":"Assess Your Climate for Solar Power Use","slug":"assess-your-climate-for-solar-power-use","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/188690"}}],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":209295,"title":"Solar Power Your Home For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/209295"}},{"articleId":207270,"title":"Turning Broken Plates into Tabletops","slug":"turning-broken-plates-into-tabletops","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/207270"}},{"articleId":194405,"title":"Installing a Solar-Powered Attic Vent Fan","slug":"installing-a-solar-powered-attic-vent-fan","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194405"}},{"articleId":194406,"title":"How to Build a Solar-Powered Water Purifier","slug":"how-to-build-a-solar-powered-water-purifier","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194406"}},{"articleId":194400,"title":"How to Use a Portable Solar Shower","slug":"how-to-use-a-portable-solar-shower","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/194400"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":282589,"slug":"solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-2nd-edition","isbn":"9780470596784","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","green-building"],"amazon":{"default":"https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","ca":"https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","indigo_ca":"http://www.tkqlhce.com/click-9208661-13710633?url=https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/product/0470596783-item.html&cjsku=978111945484","gb":"https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20","de":"https://www.amazon.de/gp/product/0470596783/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=wiley01-20"},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/solar-power-your-home-for-dummies-2nd-edition-cover-9780470596784-202x255.jpg","width":202,"height":255},"title":"Solar Power Your Home For Dummies","testBankPinActivationLink":"","bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":"<p><b data-author-id=\"10024\">Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p>","authors":[{"authorId":10024,"name":"Rik DeGunther","slug":"rik-degunther","description":" <p><b>Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p> ","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10024"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;green-building&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470596784&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221aa8ea97b\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;green-building&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470596784&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221aa8eb1c7\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Articles","articleList":null,"content":null,"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"sponsorAd":"","sponsorEbookTitle":"","sponsorEbookLink":"","sponsorEbookImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Explore","lifeExpectancy":null,"lifeExpectancySetFrom":null,"dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":188649},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-27T14:49:14+00:00","modifiedTime":"2019-06-14T13:53:15+00:00","timestamp":"2022-09-14T18:17:10+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928},{"name":"General Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33932"},"slug":"general-sustainability","categoryId":33932}],"title":"Cheap Ways to Be Greener Today","strippedTitle":"cheap ways to be greener today","slug":"cheap-ways-to-be-greener-today","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Building sustainable practices into your everyday routines improves the health of the planet and the wealth in your wallet. To lighten your carbon footprint and","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"Building sustainable practices into your everyday routines improves the health of the planet and the wealth in your wallet. To lighten your carbon footprint and save some green, try these low- or no-cost practices:","description":"Building sustainable practices into your everyday routines improves the health of the planet and the wealth in your wallet. To lighten your carbon footprint and save some green, try these low- or no-cost practices:","blurb":"","authors":[],"primaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":33932,"title":"General Sustainability","slug":"general-sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33932"}},"secondaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"tertiaryCategoryTaxonomy":{"categoryId":0,"title":null,"slug":null,"_links":null},"trendingArticles":null,"inThisArticle":[],"relatedArticles":{"fromBook":[],"fromCategory":[{"articleId":209451,"title":"Wind Power For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"wind-power-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/209451"}},{"articleId":208379,"title":"Alternative Energy For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"alternative-energy-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/208379"}},{"articleId":208344,"title":"Green Cleaning For Dummies Cheat Sheet","slug":"green-cleaning-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/208344"}},{"articleId":206672,"title":"How to Set Up Your Own Community Environmental Project","slug":"how-to-set-up-your-own-community-environmental-project","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/206672"}},{"articleId":206671,"title":"Eco-friendly Driving Tactics","slug":"eco-friendly-driving-tactics","categoryList":["home-auto-hobbies","garden-green-living","sustainability","general-sustainability"],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/articles/206671"}}]},"hasRelatedBookFromSearch":false,"relatedBook":{"bookId":0,"slug":null,"isbn":null,"categoryList":null,"amazon":null,"image":null,"title":null,"testBankPinActivationLink":null,"bookOutOfPrint":false,"authorsInfo":null,"authors":null,"_links":null},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;general-sustainability&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[null]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221aa6b0a00\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;general-sustainability&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[null]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221aa6b12aa\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Step by Step","articleList":null,"content":[{"title":"Recycle","thumb":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/92130.image1.jpg","width":1,"height":1},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/92129.image0.jpg","width":0,"height":0},"content":"<p>Most communities in the United States provide a way to recycle cardboard, newspapers, magazines, paper, glass, plastic, cans, and clothes. (If yours doesn’t, <a href=\"http://earth911.org/recycling/start-recycling-program/\">start a recycling program</a> yourself.) All you need are some boxes or bags and the time and the will to get ’er done.</p>\n"},{"title":"Bring your own bags","thumb":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"image":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"content":"<p>Instead of accumulating or even recycling the paper or plastic bags that consume untold resources to manufacture, and, in the case of plastic, literally never decompose, carry purchases in your own cloth bags.</p>\n"},{"title":"Turn off the tap","thumb":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"image":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"content":"<p>Water is the most precious of natural resources, yet it’s often taken for granted. Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth and lathering your hands or face. Collect the cold water that would otherwise head down the drain while you wait for the water to get hot.</p>\n"},{"title":"Attach low-flow showerheads","thumb":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"image":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"content":"<p>Inexpensive and easy to install, a low-flow showerhead can reduce your home water consumption and your energy costs as much as 50 percent without sacrificing water pressure.</p>\n"},{"title":"Make your toilets lower-flow","thumb":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"image":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"content":"<p>Fill a two-liter bottle (or a couple of smaller bottles if the big one doesn’t fit) with water and put it in your toilet tank. You&#8217;ll save two liters of water with every subsequent flush.</p>\n"},{"title":"Wash full loads","thumb":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"image":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"content":"<p>Whether you’re running the dishwasher or the clothes washer, wait until you have a full load to make the most of the water and energy expenditure.</p>\n"},{"title":"Dry your clothes outside","thumb":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/92132.image3.jpg","width":1,"height":1},"image":{"src":"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/92131.image2.jpg","width":0,"height":0},"content":"<p>Impart a completely natural fresh-air scent to your clothes by drying them on a clothesline. Even Energy Star–rated dryers consume a lot of energy that the sun provides for free.</p>\n"},{"title":"Turn off and unplug","thumb":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"image":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"content":"<p>Turn off the lights in empty rooms. Unplug cellphone chargers, coffeemakers, and televisions when they’re not in use. Switch off power strips when you’re not using the computer and appliances they power.</p>\n"},{"title":"Drive less . . . and less","thumb":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"image":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"content":"<p>Plan your driving schedule to cut down on the use of your vehicle. If you have to pick up the kids from school, do your shopping on the way there or back. Join a carpool. Ride the bus. Cycle. Walk.</p>\n"}],"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"sponsorAd":"","sponsorEbookTitle":"","sponsorEbookLink":"","sponsorEbookImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Explore","lifeExpectancy":null,"lifeExpectancySetFrom":null,"dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":206667},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-26T20:43:00+00:00","modifiedTime":"2017-03-02T16:00:24+00:00","timestamp":"2022-09-14T18:17:43+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928},{"name":"Green Building","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33930"},"slug":"green-building","categoryId":33930}],"title":"How to Use Radiant Heat Floor Systems","strippedTitle":"how to use radiant heat floor systems","slug":"how-to-use-radiant-heat-floor-systems","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"Radiant floor heat systems use solar power to heat water, which is then pumped through your home's floor. You can use solar-heated water to heat your home off-g","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"<p>Radiant floor heat systems use solar power to heat water, which is then pumped through your home's floor. You can use solar-heated water to heat your home off-grid. Radiant heat, without solar, costs much less than forced-air heating for efficiency reasons. </p>\r\n<p>Installing a radiant heat floor system is almost surely not a do-it-yourself project, but it merits elaboration because it's such a complete and effective way to use solar energy water heating. A snaking closed loop of metal or plastic tubing runs beneath your floor. When hot water flows through the tubing, the heat radiates upward through the floor and into the room. </p>\r\n<p>When you supplement your radiant heat system with a solar water heater, you can drive your heating costs down to nearly nothing. Of course, sunshine isn't very reliable, particularly on the coldest nights when you most need heat, so you can't use solar heating exclusively; it can only be a supplement. But it can be very effective. Plus, it's also the most comfortable way to heat a home.</p>\r\n<p>You can use any type of water heating system with a radiant floor system, but the capacity of hot water that you use goes up dramatically with a radiant heat floor system. So the attraction of a solar system also goes up dramatically, because you get much cheaper hot water per BTU.</p>\r\n<p>At the very least, radiant heating reduces your carbon footprint. When you combine it with solar, the pollution savings can be impressive.</p>\r\n<p>The engineering is complex, and the installation is clearly not for the faint of heart. There are technical problems, of course, but the systems have been in use for a long, long time. New technologies are making these the system of choice for a lot of homes.</p>\r\n<p>Here's why: With conventional forced-air systems, hot air comes in through the vents and immediately rises to the ceiling. That's not where you want it, so you need to either pump in more heat than you really need (inefficiency) or use overhead fans to move the air back down (inefficiency). Moving air makes you feel colder, and you get stuck listening to blower noise as a big machine goes on and off all night. Furthermore, heated air dries out very fast, so<b> </b>your lips dry up, and your skin gets tight.</p>\r\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width:433px;\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/245373.image0.jpg\" width=\"433\" height=\"400\" alt=\"A diagram explaining how the radiant floor heating system works.\"/><div class=\"imageCaption\">With radiant floors, the heat starts at ground level and rises naturally, which is much more efficient.</div></div>\r\n<p>With radiant floor systems, there's no blower noise, wind chill is nonexistent, and you don't have to mess with HVAC filters. The big benefit is that the heat is in the room — the floor and furniture — not just the air. You can adjust your thermostat to a lower temperature in a radiant house and achieve the same comfort level because the floor and furniture are where the heat is. Where you set the thermostat is a question of comfort, not numerical temperature.</p>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">If you're planning on a room addition to your house, consider using a radiant floor in that room. Your existing HVAC system likely won't have enough capacity to heat an additional room. Adding a solar water heater to your house and using your domestic heater to heat the radiant floor in the addition works wonders, and it's usually cheaper than adding another small HVAC system.</p>\r\n<p>You can also cool your house with radiant flooring. It doesn't work quite as well as heating, but if you have solar panels, you can use these at night to cool the water that's already in the closed loop of the radiant floor system. The reason the collectors will cool is simply because they have so much area, and the heat will escape into the cool, nighttime air. This is especially true if a breeze is blowing.</p>","description":"<p>Radiant floor heat systems use solar power to heat water, which is then pumped through your home's floor. You can use solar-heated water to heat your home off-grid. Radiant heat, without solar, costs much less than forced-air heating for efficiency reasons. </p>\r\n<p>Installing a radiant heat floor system is almost surely not a do-it-yourself project, but it merits elaboration because it's such a complete and effective way to use solar energy water heating. A snaking closed loop of metal or plastic tubing runs beneath your floor. When hot water flows through the tubing, the heat radiates upward through the floor and into the room. </p>\r\n<p>When you supplement your radiant heat system with a solar water heater, you can drive your heating costs down to nearly nothing. Of course, sunshine isn't very reliable, particularly on the coldest nights when you most need heat, so you can't use solar heating exclusively; it can only be a supplement. But it can be very effective. Plus, it's also the most comfortable way to heat a home.</p>\r\n<p>You can use any type of water heating system with a radiant floor system, but the capacity of hot water that you use goes up dramatically with a radiant heat floor system. So the attraction of a solar system also goes up dramatically, because you get much cheaper hot water per BTU.</p>\r\n<p>At the very least, radiant heating reduces your carbon footprint. When you combine it with solar, the pollution savings can be impressive.</p>\r\n<p>The engineering is complex, and the installation is clearly not for the faint of heart. There are technical problems, of course, but the systems have been in use for a long, long time. New technologies are making these the system of choice for a lot of homes.</p>\r\n<p>Here's why: With conventional forced-air systems, hot air comes in through the vents and immediately rises to the ceiling. That's not where you want it, so you need to either pump in more heat than you really need (inefficiency) or use overhead fans to move the air back down (inefficiency). Moving air makes you feel colder, and you get stuck listening to blower noise as a big machine goes on and off all night. Furthermore, heated air dries out very fast, so<b> </b>your lips dry up, and your skin gets tight.</p>\r\n<div class=\"imageBlock\" style=\"width:433px;\"><img src=\"https://www.dummies.com/wp-content/uploads/245373.image0.jpg\" width=\"433\" height=\"400\" alt=\"A diagram explaining how the radiant floor heating system works.\"/><div class=\"imageCaption\">With radiant floors, the heat starts at ground level and rises naturally, which is much more efficient.</div></div>\r\n<p>With radiant floor systems, there's no blower noise, wind chill is nonexistent, and you don't have to mess with HVAC filters. The big benefit is that the heat is in the room — the floor and furniture — not just the air. You can adjust your thermostat to a lower temperature in a radiant house and achieve the same comfort level because the floor and furniture are where the heat is. Where you set the thermostat is a question of comfort, not numerical temperature.</p>\r\n<p class=\"Tip\">If you're planning on a room addition to your house, consider using a radiant floor in that room. Your existing HVAC system likely won't have enough capacity to heat an additional room. Adding a solar water heater to your house and using your domestic heater to heat the radiant floor in the addition works wonders, and it's usually cheaper than adding another small HVAC system.</p>\r\n<p>You can also cool your house with radiant flooring. It doesn't work quite as well as heating, but if you have solar panels, you can use these at night to cool the water that's already in the closed loop of the radiant floor system. The reason the collectors will cool is simply because they have so much area, and the heat will escape into the cool, nighttime air. This is especially true if a breeze is blowing.</p>","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":10024,"name":"Rik DeGunther","slug":"rik-degunther","description":" <p><b>Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. 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He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p>","authors":[{"authorId":10024,"name":"Rik DeGunther","slug":"rik-degunther","description":" <p><b>Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. He holds a BS in Engineering Physics and dual Masters degrees in Applied Physics and Engineering Economic Systems. Rik is also the author of <i>Energy Efficient Homes For Dummies</i> and <i>Alternative Energy For Dummies. </i></p> ","hasArticle":false,"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/authors/10024"}}],"_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/books/"}},"collections":[],"articleAds":{"footerAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_adhesion_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;green-building&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470596784&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221ac7a9a56\"></div></div>","rightAd":"<div class=\"du-ad-region row\" id=\"article_page_right_ad\"><div class=\"du-ad-unit col-md-12\" data-slot-id=\"article_page_right_ad\" data-refreshed=\"false\" \r\n data-target = \"[{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;cat&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;home-auto-hobbies&quot;,&quot;garden-green-living&quot;,&quot;sustainability&quot;,&quot;green-building&quot;]},{&quot;key&quot;:&quot;isbn&quot;,&quot;values&quot;:[&quot;9780470596784&quot;]}]\" id=\"du-slot-63221ac7a9f7b\"></div></div>"},"articleType":{"articleType":"Articles","articleList":null,"content":null,"videoInfo":{"videoId":null,"name":null,"accountId":null,"playerId":null,"thumbnailUrl":null,"description":null,"uploadDate":null}},"sponsorship":{"sponsorshipPage":false,"backgroundImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"brandingLine":"","brandingLink":"","brandingLogo":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0},"sponsorAd":"","sponsorEbookTitle":"","sponsorEbookLink":"","sponsorEbookImage":{"src":null,"width":0,"height":0}},"primaryLearningPath":"Explore","lifeExpectancy":null,"lifeExpectancySetFrom":null,"dummiesForKids":"no","sponsoredContent":"no","adInfo":"","adPairKey":[]},"status":"publish","visibility":"public","articleId":188628},{"headers":{"creationTime":"2016-03-27T16:52:30+00:00","modifiedTime":"2016-03-27T16:52:30+00:00","timestamp":"2022-09-14T18:13:51+00:00"},"data":{"breadcrumbs":[{"name":"Home, Auto, & Hobbies","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33809"},"slug":"home-auto-hobbies","categoryId":33809},{"name":"Garden & Green Living","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33916"},"slug":"garden-green-living","categoryId":33916},{"name":"Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33928"},"slug":"sustainability","categoryId":33928},{"name":"General Sustainability","_links":{"self":"https://dummies-api.dummies.com/v2/categories/33932"},"slug":"general-sustainability","categoryId":33932}],"title":"Alternative Energy For Dummies Cheat Sheet","strippedTitle":"alternative energy for dummies cheat sheet","slug":"alternative-energy-for-dummies-cheat-sheet","canonicalUrl":"","seo":{"metaDescription":"If you want to make alternative energy a part of your life, either through your car, home, or at work, you should understand some basic energy terminology and t","noIndex":0,"noFollow":0},"content":"<p>If you want to make alternative energy a part of your life, either through your car, home, or at work, you should understand some basic energy terminology and the various alternative energy sources being used and developed.</p>\n","description":"<p>If you want to make alternative energy a part of your life, either through your car, home, or at work, you should understand some basic energy terminology and the various alternative energy sources being used and developed.</p>\n","blurb":"","authors":[{"authorId":10024,"name":"Rik DeGunther","slug":"rik-degunther","description":" <p><b>Rik DeGunther</b> is the founder of Efficient Homes, an energy auditing and consulting firm. 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Sustainability Articles

Being environmentally friendly and keeping our planet healthy are concerns we all share. Help do your part with this actionable advice from Dummies.

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143 results
Recycling What Is Planned Obsolescence?

Article / Updated 03-29-2023

Planned or built-in obsolescence is when companies deliberately design products to break down quickly, forcing the customer to purchase a replacement product. The purpose of this tactic is simply to generate more revenue for the company. The earliest story of built-in obsolescence is the light bulb. Back in 1924, a cartel of the major light bulb manufacturers, including General Electric and Phillips, made sure that light bulbs didn’t significantly exceed an expected life span of 1,000 hours, so the homeowner had to buy replacement bulbs regularly. Built-in obsolescence is prevalent in electronic goods, although not exclusive to them. Some of the most common tactics include the following. Deliberately shortening a product’s life span This is the most common method used. Examples include using cheap or unreliable parts that break or wear out quickly, rendering the entire product useless. For instance, many children’s toys are built to last only as long as their weakest part, even though rough playing is expected. Preventing repairs Many devices we use regularly can’t be repaired. Sometimes it’s simply the battery that needs replacing, but it’s glued or otherwise locked inside the device where we can’t reach it. Companies may even suggest the warranty is void if we attempt to open the product. In other scenarios, repair services may be available, but they are often absurdly expensive, while the price of a new product is much lower. Mobile phone manufacturers have drawn criticism recently for the lack of repairability of phones. Restricting software upgrades Many of our devices rely on up-to-date software, particularly with the number of viruses and scams around. A product’s software can be made to fail after a certain period, forcing the user to upgrade their product. You might have encountered this issue with an older mobile phone. I was still using my iPhone after five years, but unfortunately, even though the phone still performed all the required tasks, I had to upgrade to a new phone because the software no longer supported any of the apps and my phone was no longer protected. In 2018, Apple was fined $27 million in France for intentionally slowing down the speed of older phones through software updates. Although Apple claimed it was to provide better battery performance, that didn’t help their case because customers should also be able to replace the battery. The perception of obsolescence Sometimes companies don’t even design for obsolescence. They simply market the product in a way that suggests you should replace your old device. The new release will have some feature that is bigger or better. Fast fashion is a good example of the perception of obsolescence, conveying the idea that your clothes are out of date faster than you can get them home from the store. Avoiding planned obsolescence Avoiding built-in obsolescence can be tricky. Consider whether you need a new product or whether you can keep using what you have. Look into other options like repairing your old device or buying secondhand. Do your research, and check reviews to get a feel for the durability and repairability of an item before you buy. Some companies are headed in the right direction, making their products more repairable and upgradable. For example, Framework has designed a laptop computer with a modular design that gives the user flexibility to upgrade, downgrade, or repair their laptop at any stage. To learn more about what to look out for when choosing a new device, check out my book Recycling For Dummies. Finally, the best advice I can give is to take your time and not be pressured by advertising that tells you to get the latest device or product. Sleep on it, and remember it’s your hard-earned money that you’ll be spending.

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General Sustainability Wind Power For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Cheat Sheet / Updated 04-07-2022

After you decide that your home is a good candidate for wind power, you need to understand the basic parts of wind-electric systems and how they fit together. In addition, you need to evaluate how much energy your home needs and how much wind your site actually gets — a realistic wind resource assessment is key. You also want to make sure to steer clear of "too good to be true" energy estimates from the pros who want to sell you their goods and services.

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Composting Making Compost ― Black Gold for Your Organic Garden

Article / Updated 03-31-2022

The best and most refined of organic matters is compost, which is organic matter and/or manures that have decomposed until they resemble loamy soil. Thoroughly decomposed compost contains lots of humus — the beneficial, soil-improving material your plants need. Whether the original source was grass clippings, sawdust, animal manure, or vegetable scraps from your kitchen, all organic matter eventually becomes compost. Making your own compost is probably the simplest way to ensure high quality compost and save some money. It's really not as complicated as you may think: The many commercial composting bins and containers on the market make it a mess-free and hassle-free process. A well-constructed compost pile — built with the proper dimensions and maintained correctly — heats up fast; decomposes uniformly and quickly; kills many diseases, insects, and weed seeds; doesn't smell; and is easy to turn and maintain. Conversely, a pile just thrown together rarely heats up and, therefore, takes longer to decompose. This type of cold composting doesn't kill any diseases, insects, or weed seeds; may smell bad; and definitely looks messy. Containing your compost pile makes it look neater, helps you maintain the correct moisture, and prevents animals from getting into it. You can build your own, as shown in Figure 1, or buy a commercial home composting unit. Figure 1: Build a simple wooden bin to hold your compost pile. The advantages of a commercial composter include the availability of a wide range of attractive sizes and shapes and ease of use. Choose from box-shaped plastic and wooden bins and barrels or elevated and easy-to-turn tumblers, as shown in Figure 2. Store-bought bins are costly, however, and produce only small quantities of compost at a time, especially compared to a homemade bin that's built from scrap lumber or wire. Figure 2: Commercial composters help you make compost yourself. How to build a good compost pile Here's how you build a good compost pile: Choose a shady location. Make it out of the way, but still within view so that you don't forget about the pile. The soil under it should be well drained. Make a bin. Create a wire cylinder that's 3- to 4-feet in diameter or build a three-sided box (similar to the one in Figure 1), that's 4 to 5-feet high and wide. Add brown materials. Add a 6-inch layer of "brown" organic matter — such as hay, straw, old leaves, and sawdust — to the bottom of the container. Add green materials. Add a 2- to 3-inch layer of "green" organic matter, such as green grass clippings, manure, table scraps, or even high-nitrogen fertilizer, such as cottonseed meal, on top of the brown layer. Repeat these layers. Water each layer as you go, until the pile is 4 to 5-feet tall and fills the bin. A smaller pile won't heat up well and a larger pile can be difficult to manage. Within two days, mix the layers together thoroughly. Particle size should be varied, smaller particles hasten decomposition. Cover the pile with a tarp. This keeps rain away and preserves moisture. If the pile gets too soggy or too dry, it won't heat up. What to add, and what not to add Not all organic matter is good for the compost pile. Following, is a look at what to add to a pile, including ratios, and what not to add. What to add to the pile or composter What you put in the compost pile is up to you — just remember that it needs to be from an organic material. Here's a short list of possibilities: Hay, straw, pine needles Leaves Kitchen scraps (egg shells, old bread, vegetable and fruit scraps) Animal manure, except for dog, cat, pig, or human Old vegetables, flowers, or trimmings from trees and shrubs Sawdust Wood chips Weeds Shredded black-and-white newspaper. (In the past, color printing used heavy metals in the ink. Most color printing now uses soy-based inks, but it's better to avoid them in the garden altogether to be on the safe side.) What not to add Some items don't belong in your compost pile. While hot compost piles can kill off many diseases, weed seeds, and insects, it's not a sure thing, and some of these unpleasant guests may survive to invade your garden again. Certain materials can also invite unwanted wildlife to the pile or spread human diseases. Avoid adding the following to your compost bin: Kitchen scraps like meats, oils, fish, dairy products, and bones. They attract unwanted animals, such as rats and raccoons, to the pile. Weeds that have gone to seed or that spread by their roots, such as quackgrass Diseased or insect-infested vegetable or flower plants Herbicide-treated grass clippings or weeds Dog, cat, or pig feces Ratios for adding materials to the compost pile In composting corners, you often hear about the carbon to nitrogen (C/N) ratio. Basically, all organic matter can be divided into carbon-rich (brown stuff) and nitrogen-rich (green stuff) materials. Using the right mixture of brown to green stuff when building a compost pile encourages the pile to heat up and decompose efficiently. Although nearly any combination of organic materials eventually decomposes, for the fastest and most efficient compost pile in town, strike the correct balance (C/N ratio) between the two types of material — usually 25 to 1 (that is, 25 parts carbon to 1 part nitrogen). Table 1 shows which common compost materials are high in carbon and which materials are high in nitrogen. Notice that the softer materials, such as fresh grass clippings, tend to be higher in nitrogen than hard materials, such as sawdust. Mix these together to form a pile with an average C/N ratio of 25-to-1 to 30-to-1, and you'll be well on your way to beautiful compost. Use the following carbon/nitrogen ratios as guidelines. Actual ratios vary depending on the sources of the materials and other factors. And speaking of sources — be sure that your compost materials haven't been contaminated with pesticides or other chemicals. Material and C/N Ratio Table scraps, 15:1 Grass clippings, 19:1 Old manure, 20:1 Fresh alfalfa hay, 12:1 Fruit waste, 25:1 Corn stalks, 60:1 Old leaves, 80:1 Straw, 80:1 Paper, 170:1 Sawdust, 500:1 Wood, 700:1 Quick and easy compost recipes To make the most compost in the shortest amount of time, try some of these proven recipes. For each recipe, mix the ingredients thoroughly and follow the directions in the next section. Depending on weather and compost ingredients, you should have ready-to-use compost within one to two months. Recipe #1: Four parts kitchen scraps from fruits and vegetables, 2 parts chicken or cow manure, 1 part shredded newspaper (black ink only), and 1 part shredded dry leaves. Recipe #2: Two parts kitchen scraps, 1 part chicken manure, and 1 part shredded leaves. Recipe #3: Two parts grass clippings, 1 part chicken manure, and 1 part shredded leaves. Keeping your compost pile happy A hot pile is a happy pile. If you follow the method of just throwing everything together, the pile will rarely heat up. If you follow the method of building the pile carefully with a balanced C/N ratio, the pile will start to cook within a week. Now you need to keep it cooking. Here's the procedure: Keep the pile moist by periodically watering it. Dig into the pile about 1 foot to see if it's moist. If not, water the pile thoroughly, but not so that it's soggy. The pile needs air, too, and adding too much water removes air spaces. If you built the pile with moist ingredients, such as kitchen scraps, it won't need watering at first. Turn the pile when it cools down. Using a garden fork, remove the outside layers and put them aside. Remove the inside layers into another pile and then switch. Place the outside layers in the center of the new pile and the inside layers along the outside of the new pile. Let it cook again. How hot it gets and how long it cooks depends on the ratio of C/N materials in the pile and whether you have the correct moisture levels. When it's cool, turn it again. You should have finished compost after two to three turnings. The finished product should be cool, crumbly, dark colored, and earthy smelling. Sometimes, a compost pile never heats up, smells bad, or contains pieces of undecomposed materials. Chances are that one of the following conditions occurred: The pile was too wet or dry. You added too many carbon materials and not enough nitrogen materials. The pieces of material were too big or packed together. Shred leaves, branches, and pieces of wood to decompose more quickly. The pile was too small. You can find lots of compost aids on the market. Bioactivators — packages of concentrated microbes — are one of the most popular because they can speed the decomposition process. These microbes occur naturally, however, and many are already present in a well-constructed compost pile. Save your money and use microbe-rich compost materials instead.

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Green Building Solar Power Your Home For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Cheat Sheet / Updated 03-15-2022

The words “solar power” often bring to mind solar panels and photovoltaic (PV) solar systems, but you can harness the sun’s energy in a number of smaller ways. The practical and affordable solar projects listed here are ones anyone can build or take advantage of. They explain how to use solar energy to purify drinking water, enjoy a portable shower, and cool your house.

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Composting Composting For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Cheat Sheet / Updated 03-01-2022

By composting food scraps, yard waste, and other ingredients, you create nutrient-rich compost to add to your garden and landscape, and you minimize the waste sent to landfills. Home composting is a great way to be greener and do something good for the environment while seeing major benefits right at home.

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Green Building How to Make Your Swimming Pool More Efficient

Article / Updated 07-29-2019

Boosting the efficiency of your swimming pool is an important first step in reducing your carbon footprint and moving toward a more sustainable lifestyle. Here's how to make your swimming pool energy efficient so that when you add solar, you get the most bang for your buck: Reduce bends in the piping: Sharp bends in the PVC piping slow down the flow and require more power to do the same job. Unfortunately, many pool installers completely fail this simple requirement. If your pipes are all over the place, rebuild the system. PVC is a cinch to work with. Make sure that all valves are working properly: If you have gate valves, replace them with ball valves, which are more efficient. Make sure that all ball valves are completely open or closed. Keep the filter clean: A dirty filter loads the pump, which costs a lot more power. If your filter is old, replace it. Cartridge filters are better than diatomaceous Earth. Install a smaller, higher efficiency pump, and run it less each day: Use the smallest, most efficient pump possible — 3/4 horsepower is usually sufficient. If your pump is a few years old and wasn't designed with enough capacity for solar panel use, buying a new one will probably be economical. Most people will find that they can run their pool pump for much less time and still achieve satisfactory cleanliness. Give it a try. A large power pump filters your pool water faster, and some people like that because it means you can run the pump less (which means you listen to it less). But here's the problem: If you're planning on putting up solar panels, the amount of heat they put into the pool is a function of how much time water is flowing through them; the quantity of water isn't as important. So if you have a large pump that moves water quickly, you're not optimizing your solar panels. Install windbreaks around your pool. Wind can increase evaporation 300 percent or more, which wastes a lot of energy, much more than you may think.

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Green Building Solar Heating Systems for Your Pool

Article / Updated 07-10-2019

You can heat your pool using solar power. Your pool system already includes the pump, controller, and filter, along with PVC pipes that route the water flow. Simply break into the PVC line after the filter and run a couple of flex hoses (or PVC, if you prefer) to the solar collector panel, which you can lay out on the ground or set against a hill to achieve some tilt toward the sun. A simple swimming pool solar-heating system. When the valve is closed, water runs exclusively through the solar collector panel, heating the water. As you open the valve, less water flows through the collector panel. In this way, you can adjust how much heat is going into your pool. Solar collector panels are available at most pool supply stores. Adaptors are sometimes necessary. Here are some ways to run the system for best results: Place the solar collector panel where it sees the most sunlight when the pool pump is running. If you place the solar collector panel on your roof, try to minimize resistance to the water flow. Keep the solar panel out of the wind as much as possible. For best heating results, run the pool pump during the sunniest time of the day; running it longer will result in more heat in the pool. If you want to use two or more solar collector panels, connect them in parallel. Flexible solar collector panels that are designed to fit together in a parallel ganged arrangement reduce the overall water pressure while heating the same amount of water. The general rule is to use a total collector surface area that's about half the surface area of your pool. But this varies quite a bit. Sizing your collector surface area depends on a number of factors: The pump's running time: The longer it's on, the more heat you collect in the pool for a given collector size. Pool location: If you have an above ground pool, the heat loss is much greater. You need a collector with more surface area. Solar potential when the pump is on: Note how your solar panels are oriented. How much sunlight do you get? Shade: Cutting down Old Man Oak isn't much of an option if your blood is truly green. Otherwise, choose a larger collector. Wind: If you have a lot of wind, your collectors will run inefficiently unless they are glazed. Swimming pools cost a lot. If you don't have any kind of swimming pool heater, your useable season may be around four months of the year. If you install a swimming pool heating system, you can get eight months. This explains the popularity of pool heaters. In a full-scale, professional-grade swimming pool solar system, when the pump is on, the controller decides whether to activate the solar collectors by measuring the temperature at the collectors and the temperature of the pool water. When heat's available at the collector, the motor valve opens, and the pump moves water up into the collectors and back down to the swimming pool. When the controller deactivates the motor valve and no longer allows water to pump into the collectors, the vacuum breaker allows the system to purge itself of liquid.

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General Sustainability Cheap Ways to Be Greener Today

Step by Step / Updated 06-14-2019

Building sustainable practices into your everyday routines improves the health of the planet and the wealth in your wallet. To lighten your carbon footprint and save some green, try these low- or no-cost practices:

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Green Building How to Use Radiant Heat Floor Systems

Article / Updated 03-02-2017

Radiant floor heat systems use solar power to heat water, which is then pumped through your home's floor. You can use solar-heated water to heat your home off-grid. Radiant heat, without solar, costs much less than forced-air heating for efficiency reasons. Installing a radiant heat floor system is almost surely not a do-it-yourself project, but it merits elaboration because it's such a complete and effective way to use solar energy water heating. A snaking closed loop of metal or plastic tubing runs beneath your floor. When hot water flows through the tubing, the heat radiates upward through the floor and into the room. When you supplement your radiant heat system with a solar water heater, you can drive your heating costs down to nearly nothing. Of course, sunshine isn't very reliable, particularly on the coldest nights when you most need heat, so you can't use solar heating exclusively; it can only be a supplement. But it can be very effective. Plus, it's also the most comfortable way to heat a home. You can use any type of water heating system with a radiant floor system, but the capacity of hot water that you use goes up dramatically with a radiant heat floor system. So the attraction of a solar system also goes up dramatically, because you get much cheaper hot water per BTU. At the very least, radiant heating reduces your carbon footprint. When you combine it with solar, the pollution savings can be impressive. The engineering is complex, and the installation is clearly not for the faint of heart. There are technical problems, of course, but the systems have been in use for a long, long time. New technologies are making these the system of choice for a lot of homes. Here's why: With conventional forced-air systems, hot air comes in through the vents and immediately rises to the ceiling. That's not where you want it, so you need to either pump in more heat than you really need (inefficiency) or use overhead fans to move the air back down (inefficiency). Moving air makes you feel colder, and you get stuck listening to blower noise as a big machine goes on and off all night. Furthermore, heated air dries out very fast, so your lips dry up, and your skin gets tight. With radiant floors, the heat starts at ground level and rises naturally, which is much more efficient. With radiant floor systems, there's no blower noise, wind chill is nonexistent, and you don't have to mess with HVAC filters. The big benefit is that the heat is in the room — the floor and furniture — not just the air. You can adjust your thermostat to a lower temperature in a radiant house and achieve the same comfort level because the floor and furniture are where the heat is. Where you set the thermostat is a question of comfort, not numerical temperature. If you're planning on a room addition to your house, consider using a radiant floor in that room. Your existing HVAC system likely won't have enough capacity to heat an additional room. Adding a solar water heater to your house and using your domestic heater to heat the radiant floor in the addition works wonders, and it's usually cheaper than adding another small HVAC system. You can also cool your house with radiant flooring. It doesn't work quite as well as heating, but if you have solar panels, you can use these at night to cool the water that's already in the closed loop of the radiant floor system. The reason the collectors will cool is simply because they have so much area, and the heat will escape into the cool, nighttime air. This is especially true if a breeze is blowing.

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General Sustainability Alternative Energy For Dummies Cheat Sheet

Cheat Sheet / Updated 03-27-2016

If you want to make alternative energy a part of your life, either through your car, home, or at work, you should understand some basic energy terminology and the various alternative energy sources being used and developed.

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