How to Green the Horse Barn

changing light bulbs but you might also want to explore the long range benefits of solar wind or microhydro local creekflowing water also known as runoftheriver hydro power sources.
Changing the way you light
CFLs generate 70 percent less heat and can cut associated energy costs. When you use less energy you lessen greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere. Every CFL can save over 200 kg 450 lbs of emissions from a power plant over its lifetime. There is one note of caution CFLs do not work as well in cold temperatures. According to a spokesperson at General Electric Lighting their product will not work in temperatures colder than 15 degrees Celsius five degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in a region where you experience below zero winters you might want to replace the CFLs with incandescent bulbs during the cold season. Check with your product supplier or manufacturer.
If others use your barn post a notice on the board to remind everyone to turn off lights when they leave or when artificial lighting is not required.
Use dimmers and motion sensors on your barn lights. Both lighting options help you utilize electricity both for the minimum amount needed and only when needed.
Finally try to maximize the use of natural light as much as possible. During warm or dry days doors and windows can be open to provide ventilation fresh air and daylight.
Conserving energy
Replace the old barn fridge with an Energy Star model. Turn down the temperature on the hot water tank and wrap it in an insulation blanket. Insulate water pipes to prevent heat loss. Reduce drafts and make sure doors and windows fit properly during the colder months. Take steps to make your barn tight and snug. If you have a larger barn housing a number of horses it is surprising how much their natural body heat will provide warmth to the ambient air. Make sure you are not running the heater unnecessarily high.
Weed control and cleanlinessFor heated arenas consider installing energy efficient fans to move the heat around more evenly. Check the roof for leaks and if appropriate consider insulation to keep heat in and reduce the dependence on electrical heaters.
Keep the area around your barn area weed free to control rodents pests and groundnesting insects such as wasps or bees that are a health hazard to animals and humans especially people allergic to bee stings. You can safely pull weeds by