When it comes to solar energy, everybody understands that it is good for the http://planetsave.com/2009/06/07/global-warming-effects-and-causes-a-top-10-list/ environment. However, depending on several factors, it may or may not be good for your pocketbook. The following article will help educate you on all the costs http://bitly.com/ associated with solar energy. Use it to help determine whether or not solar energy is right for you.
Install panels a few at a time to break down the cost in setting up your home to operate off of solar power. There is no need to buy everything all at once, as there is much planning involved. You need to give yourself time to make adjustments and learn more as you go along.
Should your solar panels fail to work as they should, it is good to have a backup plan. You might want to stay connected to the grid, or you might purchase a generator. If you choose to go the generator route, consistently test it. You may also want to have multiple generators.
Before purchasing solar panels, check the track record of the company that is selling them. Many panels come with lengthy warranty periods of up to twenty five years, but this warranty is only good if the company is still in business. Make sure to ask how long the company has been in operation and check ratings with organizations like the BBB before making your purchase.
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.
Talk to your local government about doing any major solar installations in your home or business. You want to be properly permitted and within building, zoning and construction codes and regulations. However, you may also discover tax credits, rebates and other financial incentives. They may also have data and information about how well certain solar technologies work in your area.
For the best results, place your solar panels in a location that gets plenty of sunlight. Avoid placing solar panels near trees or tall buildings because they can create shadows on the solar panels which can result in poor energy consumption. Additionally, placing your solar panels in a Southwest location will result in greater energy absorption.
Think about the money that you send to your power companies each month. How would you like to keep that money in your pocket? Changing to solar power will do that for you. After you pay off the initial investment, the money you used to pay to the power company will stay in your wallet.
Many governments offer tax savings for consumers who install green energy products. These tax savings can help offset the installation cost of a new solar energy system. Additionally, many state's also allow you to deduct some or most of the costs of the installation on your state's tax return allowing double savings.
You should never feel pressured to buy something, especially an expensive solar energy system. They're common, sadly. Always tell vendors that you need more time to consider other options and make sure solar power is a good option for you. If they continue to push, mark them off your list. Pressured decisions can cost you a lot more later on.
It's not common knowledge that you don't need a power grid when using solar energy. You can disconnect and be independent. You can say goodbye to your monthly electric bill and can even be paid by the electric company if you produce excess power that they buy from you.
One major advantage of solar power is that there are a wide range of systems on the market. While there are those that are very expensive, others are quite affordable. Therefore, regardless of your income level, you can afford to set up a solar power system. You just need to do your research and figure out what product is best for you.
A charge controller is a great addition to any solar array, specifically those that are working above 10 watts on a regular basis. These small devices act as "ON" and "OFF" switches to protect your batteries. They prevent overcharging from damaging your batteries and can provide more advanced charging options depending on the make and model.
Identify areas for improving your home with solar energy. A lot of solar systems only provide part of the energy that is needed to operate a heating system. On the flip side, they can often totally replace a water heater. These are the differences you need to understand.
Those of you how already have solar panels installed would be wise to take seasons into consideration. You should alter the positioning of your solar panels during each season so as to maximize their efficiency. Generally, you are going to get a lower output during the winter months than you do during the summer.
You don't necessarily have to stick the solar panels in the typical locations you see in the brochures. There only needs to be a small gap of approximately 1" behind the panel for air circulation. You can find interesting positions anywhere on your property that work with the style and design of the surrounding area.
Make sure your solar panels aren't shaded. You need to be sure that there is nothing new shading your panels either. If there's something like a tree in the way, it should be trimmed. Panels work exponentially, so having a fourth of a panel shaded can actually make you lose half of its output. If your panels can't get any sun, you're losing money.
The first location to consider for your new solar panel installation should be the roof, particularly best when facing south and unobstructed. An east-west roof that is in constant exposure is also a good alternative. The key is to find an area free of trees or other obstacles that will block the sunlight and reduce your efficiency.
Reduce your energy consumption before thinking seriously about solar panels. While solar energy can do the job, it's a good idea to start thinking conscientiously about what you can do to make your energy usage go down in the first place. That way, when you do get panels, you will spend less money because you will not have such high energy needs.
You may be nervous about changing your energy source, but there's no need. Solar energy is a smart, sensible choice. This article should have shown you how solar power can make life better. Hopefully this has helped you to make up your mind about taking the step towards using renewable solar energy.
