Solar energy is an excellent way to save our planet while reducing your energy bills. You are going to see a constant increase in your electric bill, so taking a look at solar energy now can prove very useful. The following article has what you need to know about solar energy and then some.
The amount of energy production is dependent on two things – the number of solar panels installed combined with the efficiency of your panels. You can do some simple calculations to determine the right number of panels. Many times it is more cost efficient to purchase energy efficient panels rather than more panels.
Solar Panels
The efficiency of solar panels depends on their density. Higher density panels will run you more because they produce more energy. Prior to buying solar panels, look at their density.
Efficient solar panels are able to be moved. If you must have fixed angle panels, compromise in the middle for the best possible angles for winter and summer.
Just because you have a lot of cloud cover does not mean you can’t get solar power! Sunlight is not a prerequisite for solar panel effectiveness. In fact, people often report that they produce more energy on overcast days.
Think carefully about whether solar power is a good choice for you. In particular, you need to consider a few things. If you do not have access to the main power grid, solar panels are an excellent option. It is also a good choice if you’re able to pay upfront in order to realize savings later.
Track numbers when getting solar panels for the home. Where your’e located will determine whether or not it’s financially feasible. Be sure to look before you leap. Study all the financial and technological specifications carefully.
If you have installed solar panels, check the inverter regularly. It is a good thing if you see a green light that is not blinking. Erratic blinking or no light may signal a malfunction. Diagnosing a solar panel issue is generally outside the expertise of owners. In fact, having a tech come out should cost you nothing if your panels are under warranty.
Solar Energy
As you prepare to have a new home constructed, consider having solar energy measures included. Solar energy is the next step in energy production, as the effects on the environment are almost non-existant. If you aren’t sure about this source of energy, research it.
If you want to take baby steps into the solar energy arena, consider starting with an attic fan that is solar powered. These fans have temperature sensors that switch automatically on when the attic reaches a certain threshold. This will help to reduce the heat in your house which results in lower cooling costs. As a plus, solar power adds nothing to your monthly energy bill.
You can add pathway lighting to your home or your business today to get started on harnessing the power of the sun. These small lights can absorb sunshine throughout the day and power the lights at night. Installation is simple, and they create a unique atmosphere as well.
It is best to install your panels at an angle that will maximize their exposure to the sun’s rays. Check for tree blocking the sun’s rays and decreasing the efficiency of your panels.
Stay away from salespeople in the solar energy business that try to push you into a sale. This industry has a lot of salespeople like this. Be firm and tell these pushy sales people that you will decide after you have examined all the facts. If it’s a good deal today, it will be tomorrow. Hasty decisions are often expensive down the road.
You need to think seriously about the benefits of a good solar water heater. Solar heating systems are more efficient than regular models, and they can save you much money. Secondly, never assume morning showers mean cold water. Solar-heated water should stay warm or hot for up to 24 hours.
Consider leasing if you cannot afford the purchase solar of energy systems for your home. This is much less expensive than purchasing them outright, and you will begin to save quickly since the initial costs are not outrageous.
Try using a clothes line to dry your clothes. Even though this idea has been used for many years, it’s still efficient. Any sunny day, skip that washer and dryer and let the sun do the work for you. Your clothes will dry and you’ll save energy and money.
If you are purchasing solar panels from a company, check into their history. Your business should go to a company that will be around in the future. You need to be sure the company will be around to honor their warranty if a panel fails in five or more years.
You can make the most of solar energy with a sun tracker. This is a device that adjusts solar panels automatically for the best orientation to the sun. These panels are more expensive, but they offset the cost immediately.
If you’re designing your new home, include lots of large south-facing windows to get more from the sun in the winter. Make sure you have methods in place to keep excess heat out during the warmer summer months. If you need help, there are a number of professionals that you can call on.
It can be difficult using an alternative energy source, however implementing a solar energy system is a sound and smart investment. This article has surely detailed for you how solar energy can change your life. Use what you’ve learned here to go green!