Simple Solutions To Help You Acquire More Knowledge About Solar EnergyThe sun shines every day, warming us and providing us with light. Without the sun, we wouldn't exist. That said, we can also use the sun to power all the things which run on electricity we use daily. This article will show you how to start using solar energy in your life.
If you don't want to or can't go for full solar power, at least consider a solar water heating system. Many regional and community governments offer financial incentives, rebates and tax credits for even doing this, just like they do for full solar installations. Check with your local government before doing anything to know the perks.
As you comparison shop for solar power systems, remember that not all brands were created equal. You want to go with a product that has a reputable manufacturer. It is wonderful if another brand offers a substantial warranty or a great discount, but those things won't help you very much if the company goes out of business in a few years.
One great way to take advantage of solar energy is by constructing a heat well just inside the south facing windows or patio doors of your home. This well collects heat from the sun during the day and releases it after dark. This form of solar energy is completely passive and requires no maintenance.
Look into solar powered appliances. There are a number of products that are available that are powered by solar energy. One of the most popular is the solar powered water heaters. Just having one appliance run by solar energy can save you hundreds of dollars each year in energy costs.
Solar water heaters have been around for hundreds of years. For over 50 years people have been using them to heat everything inside and outside the home. Over the years, these solar water heating systems have become much more efficient. If you are located in sunny areas of the country, you should look into buying a solar water system.
Consider complementing your solar panels with other forms of energy production. Aside from night, your solar panels are least productive when it is cloudy, which usually means winds, rain or both. Put in some small wind turbines on your roof and micro-hydroelectric generators at ends of gutters for some power production when solar panels are not up and running.
The cost of panels is high, so buy as few as possible. Get a professional to perform an energy audit on your home. You will then see how your energy is being wasted and you can make key adjustments. This can help you cut down on the amount of solar panels that you will need.
Can I extend my solar system?
For families with four people, a solar energy system should produce approximately 5,000 kilowatts. This allows you to wash and dry five loads of laundry a week, run the dishwasher five times a day and power multiple televisions and lights. When deciding on the system, choose one larger than what you think you need. You can always sell the extra power produced to the electric company.
When planning your panels, take into consideration the shadows that nearby trees may pass over the area. Solar panels usually need to be mounted high on the roof, in a location that is exposed to the sun for the longest period of time. However, what seems like a great spot may be covered in shade for a certain period of the day.
Once your panels are in place, keep an eye on them and monitor them regularly. Get to know what you daily output of energy is, what everything looks like when operating optimally and even keep a record of such things. This can help you quickly notice when something isn't working correctly and help you ascertain where the problem is.
Think of the process of installing solar panels as you would any other major home construction project. Research various contractors and vendors. Compare prices and ask for references. Read contracts carefully and do not hesitate to have a legal specialist go over the contracts to make sure you are getting your money's worth.
If you reside in an area where temperatures drop to freezing, you have to take special care of your solar energy system. Every time the weather gets very cold, you need to turn the system off and drain it. This will help you keep your system working for a much longer time.
Take into consideration the purpose and location of the solar panel, particularly where the power is utilized and the voltages that it will require. Most panels work with 12VDC outputs, but there are other alternatives available for certain needs. Check the voltage ratings on the panels and find a size that fits.
Identify areas for improving your home with solar energy. For instance, many solar energy systems won't have enough energy to heat a home. However, they can produce enough energy to provide all of the energy for your water heater. Understanding what your unique situation is will help you figure out what you should do.
Many people have been intrigued by solar power. That said, they don't know much about it. This article has educated you so you can now go out and teach others what you know.