Considering Solar Energy? Here's What You Need To Know!
It probably wouldn't surprise you to learn that solar energy is among the fastest growing forms of alternative energy out there. You've probably seen solar panels installed in many homes in your area. If you are considering turning to solar power for your energy, this article is for you. Read on and learn everything you need to know about residential solar energy.
Think about heating your hot tub or pool water with solar energy. These devices are some of the most energy consuming things that people have in their homes these days. If you use solar energy instead of standard energy to power these you could greatly reduce your carbon footprint and save money in the end.
Once your solar energy system is installed, be sure to keep it maintained. Overall, solar power does not require a great deal of upkeep, however there are a few precautions you should take. Check your solar panels frequently for anything that could obstruct their exposure to the sun. This includes fallen leaves in autumn or snow accumulation in winter.
Be sure that you choose a company that has a great deal of experience if you plan to have a solar energy system installed. Installation is the most important factor in whether or not your system will produce the most amount of energy possible, and a bad installation could costs you thousands in repairs.
Don't walk on solar panels unless you really need to. Not only are they expensive, but they are delicate as well. If you absolutely have to walk on them, step in the middle of the panel.
Particularly if you plan to sell your home someday, it is important to keep in mind that a solar-powered residence is very attractive to buyers. Therefore, purchasing such a system will generally help you command a higher selling price. This is because, as time goes on, our society is becoming more and more driven to find eco-friendly solutions to everyday problems.
When switching over to solar panel, take the time to evaluate all of your energy needs. Solar panels are far from cheap, and there might be more cost effective ways that you can reduce energy consumption in your home. By reducing consumption, you can reduce how many panels you need, thereby reducing your overall purchase and install costs for a solar system.
Solar panels are offered in many different styles, so there is no reason to worry about having unsightly panels that ruin the look of your home. All kinds of various panels are out there, and many of them blend in quite well with all kinds of different homes, including those made of cement, slate, and metal.
There are many ways to take advantage of solar energy. One of them that many people don't know about is leasing a system. You see, when you lease a system, you lock in a rate for about ten years, which means that your rate doesn't go up as energy costs do go up. Therefore, you have found a way to get that solar energy into your home.
Change the angle of your solar panels with the seasons; ideally, this would mean four times a year. Throughout the year, the intensity and angle of available sunlight varies. When you alter the angle, you maximize efficiency.
If you do not think that you can handle using solar power as your only energy source, you can use it in combination with other energy sources. Many times installing solar power systems will significantly reduce the amount of traditional energy sources used. This means that you will also save a good amount of money.
Many solar systems require little or no maintenance to operate smoothly throughout the year, but you should have them service occasionally. Dirt, leaves and dust can accumulate and reduce the amount of power that your system can produce. Have a licensed installer come out regularly to preform maintenance on your system.
Don't underestimate the effect that shade can have on a solar panel's output. One tree branch can produce enough shade to reduce the amount of solar energy produced by almost 80 percent and that's without leaves. Take the time to properly situate any solar panels you install to maximize their efficiency.
Remember to include all influences when determining the projected output of your solar energy system. Remember that the projected energy output of your panels is calculated for best case scenarios in full sunlight. When you have clouds or trees in the way, your output will be decreased.
With any luck, the article you have just read has given you some valuable information about how solar energy works. Use this information to help you make the decision of whether or not solar energy is right for you. At the end of the day, solar energy can both help save the environment and reduce your energy costs.
