When thinking about methods of boosting your energy efficiency, the mind naturally turns to solar energy. It reduces energy costs and is environmentally safe. The information that follows will help you understand a little more about why solar power could be beneficial for you.
Efficiency of a solar panel is determined in part by the density. Though they’re pricier, higher density panels will give you more power. Be sure to compare densities before picking your panels.
Look for a transferable lease in the event that you choose to lease solar power. If you end up selling your home, you could be paying for a solar energy system you are not using. If you have the transfer option, you can transfer your lease to the new owners of the home.
Even locations with cold weather and clouds can benefit from switching to solar energy. Sunlight is not a prerequisite for solar panel effectiveness. Many folks say that their top power days sometimes come on seemingly less than optimal days.
Solar Panels
You should consider investing in solar panels if you are interested in long-term investments. Installing solar panels requires a substantial investment, so years may pass before the panels generate sufficient savings to cover your cost. If you don’t plan to stick around, don’t buy solar panels.
If you are able to afford the cost and the necessary space, a panel system that tracks the sun is your best bet for power generation. Sun tracking solar panels give you maximum performance as they adjust with the path of the sun and give you maximum energy creating potential. The cost is relatively steep compared to a fixed option, but the benefits more than outweigh the costs.
You could get a tax credit if you switch to solar power. In fact, you may get a 30% rebate on your purchase price. A quick online search should turn up information on these programs.
Be certain the solar panels you choose are installed in the most advantageous way for sun exposure year round. If you do not know how to position them efficiently, look at the direction that the sun travels and think about how that changes with the seasons.
Don’t use older versions of solar panels. The most recent technologies are more efficient but some solar panel vendors still sell technology that is a few years old. Panels that are older will cost less but they won’t work as well.
If you wish to get solar panels, start checking the weather. A good rule of thumb is to ensure your panels will receive a minimum of five hours of good sunlight per day. During the winter, if you have snow on your roof or if most of the days are overcast, you should consider other options in green energy.
Solar water heating systems still have a way to go. First, even the best of them are only a third more economically efficient that the best electric models, but they still save money. Remember that a morning shower doesn’t mean you’ll be using frigid water. Water heated by the sun ought to remain hot for about 24 hours.
To make sure that your solar panels are operating at maximum efficiency, do a routine check a couple of times a year. A technician will be checking each connection, the angles of the solar panels and the state of the power inverter.
Solar power systems are particularly effective in the southwest. This is where the sun is frequent and power output can be high. If you have not looked into the cost you should do so right away.
Ideally you should change the angle at which your solar panels sit at least four times per year, at the start of each new season. The amount and direction of sunlight that reaches your home changes when the seasons change. Angling your unit to face the sun will help you pull in more energy.
When picking solar panels, do not let the price alone influence your decision. There is so much to look at, such as wattage, efficiency and warranty length. For this reason, you must do some solid research and make a well-educated choice. Purchase the highest quality panels that your budget will allow.
When you pay a lot for power and yet you get tons of sunlight every day, solar energy is for you. The money you spend purchasing and maintaining the system will be well worth it.
When determining the actual output of your system, always remember to consider additional factors. Some days will be cloudy, and the immediate area around your home will have an effect as well. Any type of shade will decrease the amount of energy produced by some degree.
Use a hose for cleaning solar panels. If you use a hose once a week there is a good chance that you will not need to get up onto the roof to do the cleaning. Additionally, this will help prevent scratches on the solar panels.
Look into cleaning products that are designed specifically for solar panels. The best products to use without solvents are those of the nano-cleaning variety. They also use the rain to help keep the panels clean, which translates to less cleaning for you.
Shadows can reduce your solar panels by up to 80 percent. The panel efficiency varies based on location, but it can be maximized by reducing shadow coverage.
Switching to solar is a powerful change. You will save the planet and save a great deal of money. Whether you are a homeowner or a business owner, know that solar energy is sure to benefit you either way. Utilize the following advice to help you devise a good plan for solar energy.