When it comes to solar energy, knowledge is key. It's what will ensure your technology is the most efficient. It's also what will keep you on budget. The more you know, the better, so read this article in full to find many great tips on using solar energy the right way.
If you are just starting with solar energy, you should start small. Choose a few lights to put in your front yard until you realize the benefits of solar energy. Many different stores carry these, such as Walmart and Lowe's. They are not hard to install, either; simply put them in the dirt and go from there.
An environmentally friendly way to save money is using a solar water tank to heat your home's water. You will find many different option for solar heated water. They are easily installed in an area of optimum sun exposure or on the roof.
Before you pull the trigger and buy a system, take a look at how long the manufacturer guarantees the product for. You want a fairly long warranty because the system will have to pay for itself over time and help you begin to generate a profit. Therefore, make sure the warranty is for at least 25 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.
Try to choose solar panels that can have their angles find out here now adjusted easily. The angle at which the sun hits the Earth changes throughout the year. This means that the best angle to catch the suns rays can be very different between summer and winter. Ideally you want to at least be able to adjust the angle of your panels twice a year, however if you can find some that allow adjustments four times a year (spring, summer, fall, winter) that is even better.
Purchase batteries to store excess solar energy. These batteries are similar to rechargeable batteries; however, they use the sun's energy to power up the batteries. This energy can be used in the evenings and at night to help power your appliances, televisions and lighting requirements. These batteries are relatively inexpensive making them a great choice for the beginner.
You may be able to get tax credits for a solar energy installation. You might get as much as 30% of the installation cost back! Search online to find information. You can also call your state tax office to inquire about the availability of these types of programs.
Teaching your children about solar energy will help them embrace this alternative energy in their adulthood. Help them understand the difference between a renewable resource and the limitations of other types of fuel. If you start instilling this way of thinking early on, your children will be more responsible in their choices when they lead their own lives.
If you have animals that require electric fencing to contain them, use solar powered fencing units to provide power for them. A great advantage to these systems is that they are completely mobile, and can be easily moved. If you are a horse owner who enjoys overnight horse-camping, the fencer can be easily taken along.
Maximize the output of your solar panels by adjusting them seasonally. Adjusting your panels twice a year, once http://www.greenhome.com/ in the summer and once in the winter, will ensure that your panels are producing the maximum amount of energy by taking into account the earth's changing position relative to the sun.
If you don't want to make the commitment to a fully solar powered energy system, consider investing in solar water heating. A water heater can represent upwards of thirty-five percent of a single home's energy use. It will cost you less to install a solar heater for water than to install a whole-house solar energy system.
Do not rush in selecting the first solar power system you come across. Before you make a commitment with a company, you need to make sure you cannot find any better deals elsewhere. Check out your town's federal, state, and local incentives first. You can find this information at the DSIRE database.
When you want to go right to the source of power in our galaxy, the sun is the place to find it. The helpful hints you've read here are a great start. Keep checking out articles and blogs and learning all you can to master the art of using solar energy for your own benefit.
