Confused About Solar Energy? Read This Expert Advice And You'll See The Light!
One of the fastest growing forms of renewable energy is solar power. These days, it isn't uncommon to see solar panels installed in the roofs of residential homes. If you are considering turning to solar power, this article is for you. Read at an learn everything you need to about solar energy.
If you're thinking about installing solar panels to generate your own electricity, make sure that the roof you'll be installing them on gets plenty of good sunlight. Good sunlight occurs between 9am and 3pm. You'll generate the most electricity if your roof receives full, exposed sunlight between those hours every day.
When you are just transitioning to solar power, pick something small to start with. There are outdoor lights that are completely run on solar energy. You will find these in various locations, such as home improvement retailers and other major retail stores. The installation of the lights is not complicated, and most are ready to go from the box right into the ground.
If you properly maintain your solar panels, they should continue to work well. Inspect it at a minimum of once per month, and regularly clean the panels. Have a professional inspect or clean your panels for you if you are not sure how to do it or need help with fixing minor issues.
If you find that you cannot afford solar panels at the moment, you should stay up to date with new products and technologies. Scientists are regularly coming up with new technologies and materials that can be used to build more efficient and affordable panels, which means solar energy should become a more efficient solution in the future.
Don't cheap out on the installation! Yes, you've spent a lot of hard earned cash on these solar panels, but that's the point entirely. You've made a huge investment, and you'll want these panels to be secured perfectly. If you opt for someone with less experience or a spotty track record to save a bit of cash, then you'll likely have lots of issues in the future.
Do not clean your solar panels with abrasive chemicals. You should use some lukewarm water, a soft cloth and some biodegradable soap if needed. Clean your panels at least once a month or more frequently if you notice your green energy system is not producing as much power as it should.
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.
Converting your whole house to solar power can be expensive. Before you commit, look at how much you can afford. The initial investment will be very large, but there will come a time when you will break even, then start realizing your savings. Work out the numbers so that you will know how it will affect your long-term budget.
Analyze the weather in your area to determine if solar panels are right for you. High-quality solar panels produce enough power for the home if they can get unobstructed sunlight for about five hours a day every day. Solar energy may not be for you if you live in an area where it is usually cloudy or raining.
Don't assume that just because a company sells and installs solar panels means they are good and trustworthy people. Shop around. Get a minimum of three quotes. Read all contracts. Check backgrounds of potential contractors. Deal with this like any other home-improvement project that you would otherwise do.
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.
If you are planning on meeting with a consultant to install a solar panel system, you need to make sure you are prepared. Have a list of all electrical appliances along with their wattage and the number of hours you use them on hand. Any good consultant will need to know this information before a solar panel can be installed.
Figure out how geography factors into the cost benefit analysis of solar panels. Two things have to be taken into account. First, your global latitude and distance from the equator determine your sunlight amounts and angle. Secondly, your local and national government come into play too, given any rebates or incentives they might offer. Both of these need to be factored numerically in determining if solar panels are going to even make or save money for you.
With any luck, the article you have just read has answered any questions you may have had with regards to solar energy. Use this information to aid you in your decision to install solar panels in your home. At the end of the day, it is only worth it if it makes financial sense.