How Solar Energy Can Be Used To Your Benefit
Today, perfect sunlight is not a prerequisite to solar energy. The tech has improved that much! It's available to almost any business or home that wants to make this change. Keep reading to learn more about all of the ways solar energy can benefit you.
You don't have to go big to enjoy solar power. Purchase a few solar energy lights for landscape lighting to help save energy and protect our planet. You should not have any problem finding these lights at a store near you. You install them by simply putting them into the ground.
Position solar panels on the east or west side of your home or business. Since the sun travels from east to west throughout the day, placing solar panels on areas of your roof that face north or south is a waste. You'll get much better energy returns by following the same path as the sun.
Find out if your local energy provider offers meter rollback programs. Once you have a solar energy system, you should consider joining one of these programs so you can sell the energy you produce to the main grid and draw the same amount of energy instead of purchasing an expensive battery system to store your power.
Look for a transferable lease in the event that you choose to lease solar power. This is important if you decide to sell your home, as you wouldn't want to pay for energy you aren't using. If you have the transfer option, you can transfer your lease to the new owners of the home.
You should find solar panel vendors located in your area and have them inspect your property to determine what kind of panels would be best for you and how many panels will be needed. There are many vendors on the Internet but working with a professional located in another state means they might not be familiar with weather conditions.
Solar energy systems allow you to cut your ties to the outside world. You can go completely off grid with one of these systems. You will not have to pay monthly fees or wonder who is watching your power use. You can increase your level of privacy while saving the environment and your money.
Look into the warranties of the solar panels you are considering. A quality solar panel should have a warranty for twenty years or more. If you don't get that with the panels you are considering, then move in a different direction. It may cost a little more, but it'll be worth it for the peace of mind.
Don't cheap out on the installation! Yes, you've spent a lot of hard earned cash on these solar panels, but that's the point entirely. You've made a huge investment, and you'll want these panels to be secured perfectly. If you opt for someone with less experience or a spotty track record to save a bit of cash, then you'll likely have lots of issues in the future.
Think carefully about what would be easiest to switch over to solar power. You may want to start with small appliances so that the transition will not cause too much disruption to your daily routines. Doing things gradually will make it easier to stick with.
There are many companies who claim to be specialists in solar conversion. However, it is up to you to confirm that they have the proper qualifications and credentials. Check with the Better Business Bureau for their current business standing. Do an online search for any reviews. If you turn up any negative information, look for another service.
Converting your whole house to solar power can be expensive. Before you commit, look at how much you can afford. The initial investment will be very large, but there will come a time when you will break even, then start realizing your savings. Work out the numbers so that you will know how it will affect your long-term budget.
When considering a water heater powered by the sun, be realistic regarding its costs and benefits. Solar heating systems are more efficient than regular models, and they can save you much money. Second, don't think that just because you shower in the dark means you'll have to deal with cold water. Water that is heated by the sun should maintain its warmth for a full day.
Consider selling extra energy back to your local utilities. If you live in an area of abundant sunshine, you may be able to not only save money on your power, but earn a little extra too. Many power companies allow solar energy users to sell extra power back to them, so be sure to take advantage of the opportunity.
Solar energy can really help a business or home save thousands on the utility bills and reduce carbon-based pollution every year. Want to install it for your own uses? Go for it! Use what you've just learned to form your decisions, and you'll make smart energy choices.