Solar Energy: A Free Energy Source
There are a lot of people in the world that are intimidated when they think about solar energy. It is a fairly new concept for many, and it is sometimes quite difficult to adapt to new things. Keep reading if you want to clear up any confusion you may have about solar energy.
How much power you generate is based on how many panels you have and how well those panels work. Be sure and crunch the numbers to see how many solar panels you'll need to install. You may get better results using a few high performance panels instead of many less efficient ones.
Not every solar panel is created equally. Always buy from a reputable dealer that has been in business for a number of years. The solar energy marketplace is littered with businesses that do not succeed. Make sure the company you buy from will be around if you need help or have problems with your system.
If you cannot afford to purchase a solar energy system for your entire house, consider using it in just one or two spaces. Solar energy is a great option for heating swimming pools for instance, or bringing additional warmth to a cooler bedroom. You can always start small and purchase more later, as your budget allows.
Be realistic about the costs of having a solar energy system. If you're paying much less than other systems that are around the same size as yours, you may have poor equipment or installation work. Like with many things in life you get what you pay for. Quality installation work and equipment isn't going to be cheap. You may have substantial savings by going with a large company, but other companies may be cutting corners to keep costs down.
You should attend renewable energy fairs or visit renewable energy demonstration centers located in your area. You will get a chance to meet with experts and learn more about solar energy and the different types of panels you can invest in. You will make a better decision if you are properly educated.
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.
If you are planning to move to remote location you may want to have solar energy panels installed on your home. Solar energy is still relatively expensive to install, but it can be more affordable than wiring power to your home. Get quotes on both before you decide which route you will take.
Consider pathway lighting if you are interested in getting your feet wet with solar energy. Exterior lights can be powered at night by the power of the sun which is gathered during the day. They are easy to install and offer charm to your outdoor area as well.
When you are building your own solar panel systems, expect to build multiple arrays for the highest-efficiency. A solar panel can only generate a certain amount of energy--usually a fairly low number--which means that you need more than one panel. Multiple panels in the right spots is a recipe for success.
Make sure to watch the light on your solar panel inverter regularly. Check it at least a couple of times a week, while sunlight is hitting your panels. The light should be green. If it is not, your panels might not be working correctly, and it is time to call in a technician.
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 reside in an area where temperatures drop to freezing, you have to take special care of your solar energy system. Every time the weather gets very cold, you need to turn the system off and drain it. This will help you keep your system working for a much longer time.
If you lease solar panels to save the upfront costs, check the contract for the possibility of transferring the lease. If you sell your home or building that panels are installed in within the lease period, you want to be able to legally transfer the lease to the new owners of the property.
It is never easy to change the way you are living, particularly if things have been the same for quite some time. The article above was written to help you understand that solar energy does not have to be so frightening. It is something that can help you save the Earth while saving some of your hard-earned money.