When it comes to solar energy, there is no question that it is great for the environment. After all, you are using a renewable energy source that isn't going anywhere anytime soon. However, there are a number of factors to consider when installing solar panels in your home. The following article will serve to aid you in that department.
The efficiency of solar panels depends on their density. Though they're pricier, higher density panels will give you more power. Before making a decision about solar panels, be sure to make a density comparison.
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.
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.
You can cut down on costs by using grants and rebates. It can be expensive to install a good system, so take help if you can find it. Check into federal and state grants or rebates that reward renewable energy use. This reduces the costs greatly. You might have the ability to take an expense deduction at tax time.
You should know the difference between off-grid solar energy and on-grid solar energy in order to figure out which is best for you. On-grid energy http://feedage.com/feeds/23882611/myledlightingguide requires the use of the state's electricity grid. On the other hand, off-grid energy means the home or business uses its own solar-hybrid or solar source.
Humans have taken advantage of the sun's heat for thousands of years. A lot of energy can be saved by drying your clothes outdoors in sunny weather. This cuts down a lot on the energy used to dry your clothing in an electric or gas clothes dryer, and linens dried outside smell great.
Power sources that are run by fossil fuels are run by machines that require motors. Those motors require constant maintenance. With solar energy systems, there are limited parts required so they are extremely low maintenance. You will save money on fuel as well as maintaining the system over the years.
The best time to look consider energy efficient options is when you first build a house, and solar energy is no exception to this rule. Solar energy greatly reduces harm to the environment. It is now time to check out solar energy if you have failed to do so in the past.
The best time to incorporate solar power into the design of a home or building is in the initial construction. Windows are best facing south to let maximum sunlight (hence greenhouse heat) in during the winter. Likewise, avoid windows facing directly into the summertime sun to keep things cooler, so less power is needed for fans or air conditioning. The maximum roof space, however, should always get sunlight exposure.
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.
When you are serious about your move to solar energy and begin using panels that sink more than 6 watts, invest in a solar controller. These small controls help maximize the efficiency of the charge cycle and prevent any wasted overcharging from occurring. When there is a lot of energy at stake, these are a must have for your solar-home.
Don't waste your time lining the solar panels beneath http://www.hubbellindustrial.com/ an array of florescent lights--though it may sound tempting. Solar cells are not designed to generate a voltage from fluorescent light sources and this is a waste of energy of time. Any spot in the yard would be a better location for the panels.
Decide whether you want to be on or off the power grid. Many people look forward to getting "off the grid" when they switch to solar power, however this may not be the best choice. Staying on your power grid means that when you have poor sunlight conditions you have the ability to purchase additional power when you need it. As a bonus, when you produce more power than you use, you can sell the excess back to the utilities.
How much shade does your home get? Solar panels are not the best fit for homes that spend the majority of the day in the shade. Shade will reduce the amount of sunlight that your solar panels take in. This may interfere with the performance of these panels.
As was already discussed, tons of people change to solar energy these days because of all the benefits it gives. Before you read this article, however, you may not have known too much about it. Now that you have read the article, you are on your way to become a solar energy genius. Use these tips to begin using this wonderful energy source.
