Solar Energy And You: Tips And Techniques
Solar energy is great for anyone that’s interested in alternative energy sources. Using solar energy allows you to get the energy you need from one of Earth’s resources, the sun. This article will help you understand more about solar power.
Solar Panels
The amount of energy produced depends on the efficiency of your solar panels as well as the number of solar panels installed. You should figure out exactly how many panels you need. Many times it is more cost efficient to purchase energy efficient panels rather than more panels.
The number of solar panels you buy, as well as their efficiency, has everything to do with the amount of energy your panels produce. You can do some simple calculations to determine the right number of panels. You could actually save money by purchasing a small number of efficient panels.
There are two types of solar panel. Poly-crystalline are less expensive but less efficient when compared to mono-crystalline. You should invest in a very efficient solar energy system if that is something you can afford.
Density of the panels plays a large part in the efficiency of them. With a high density the price will be increased, but you’ll generate a lot more energy. Be sure and compare densities before choosing a solar panel.
To ensure that you’re getting the most out of your panels, check out the systems that do not rely fully on the sun’s schedule. A lot of the newer solar panel models can store enough energy that you can use at any time. This can help if you use power during the night.
Photo-voltaic solar panels come in two varieties. Less expensive panels are usually poly-crystalline, but they are not as effective as the more expensive mono-crystalline panels. It is often best to invest in the most efficient product you can afford if you need a solar energy system that can power your home.
Outdoor Lights
You don’t have to worry that you’ll be tearing up your whole roof if you decide to use solar power. You could simply start with switching all of your outdoor lights to solar versions. Your outdoor lights can keep shining all night, except maybe during the longest winter nights, using the charge they stored from the sun that day.
There are smaller options for beginning with solar power. There are a couple of ways you can achieve this. The first is to find window-mounted panels for powering electronics. The second way is to use solar-powered equipment when you camp. Every little device you switch to solar will shave a bit from your utility bill.
Start small when starting with solar energy. Purchase a few solar energy lights for landscape lighting to help save energy and protect our planet. You should not have any problem finding these lights at a store near you. Just insert them into the ground, and you’re good to go.
You will have to invest in a battery to store the energy you produce with your solar panels. Buy an efficient battery which will allow you to power your home at night, or sell the power back to the grid.
You may think your solar panels are immovable, but actually, good systems are adjustable for the best sun exposure. If you must have fixed angle panels, compromise in the middle for the best possible angles for winter and summer.
Check the inverter every so often if you add solar panels to your home. You need to see a green light that’s solid. When the light blinks or is turned off, call for help. This situation requires a lot of professional knowledge. A technician can often come free if you have a warranty.
You do not have to cover your roof with solar panels in order to use solar energy. You could simply start with switching all of your outdoor lights to solar versions. They harness the sun’s energy during the daytime, which allows them to shine brightly through the night.
It’s not common knowledge that you don’t need a power grid when using solar energy. You can choose to be independent if you are ready to invest in a battery and a backup generator. This means there are zero power bills that you need to deal with!
Solar Energy
Check the state and local regulations in your area before you go and install a solar energy system. Permits are required in many municipalities. Solar energy systems are an expensive investment, so check the laws first so you do not lose any money.
When opting to lease a solar energy system, ensure that you can transfer the lease. This becomes important during the sale of your home. You might end up paying for a unit that you get no use from. If you can transfer the lease, you can simply make it part of the sale or rental agreement of your home when you move.
Just because a solar panel is bigger, that doesn’t mean it is better. There are many things to consider with regards to solar panels, such as materials used, build quality, etc. All of these things should be considered when looking into this large purchase.
Steer clear of solar energy salespeople with high-pressure tactics. Salesmen who are too focused on the sale and not your needs should be avoided. Think about the offers instead of agreeing immediately. If they tell you it’s a wonderful deal, it should remain that way. Decisions made in haste can be very costly down the road.
If your location is in the Southwest, then solar power can be a huge benefit for you. Many areas or more optimal for solar energy, so always consider your location when thinking about solar energy. The cost of installation is far less than the average cost of utility bills.
Efficient angling is key to solar panel success. If you do not understand how to accomplish this, spend some time tracking the sun’s path.
Prior to making your decisions about solar panels, determine how much shade is around your house. If you have a lot of shaded area, pass on the solar panels. Shade limits the sun’s performance on solar panels. This reduces the effectiveness and cost efficiency of solar heat.
Solar energy provides you with the energy that you need, yet doesn’t harm the environment. This source of energy uses natural resources and is an advantage for everyone. Take the information in this article, and make the best choice for your family.