Solar energy is starting to catch on. Solar energy is great for commercial and residential use, and it also requires very little maintenance. If you are interested in learning more about solar power and all it entails, read on.
The amount of energy production is dependent on two things – the number of solar panels installed combined with the efficiency of your panels. Therefore, it’s important that you calculate the number of solar panels you will need to power your home. Buying larger, more efficient panels may be a wiser choice than buying a lot of smaller panels.
Start small if you are just starting out with solar energy. For example, solar path lights are a great start. You can find them at your local hardware store or mass market retailer. You install them by simply putting them into the ground.
The solar panels’ density can determine their efficiency rates. Higher density panels tend to cost more, but they are able to produce more power. If you are hesitating between different panels, compare their density to get an idea of how efficient they will be.
Your solar energy system will be more efficient if it allows you to use power at anytime of the day or night. Newer systems can store energy from the sun while it is up, and then let you use that energy later. This is especially useful if you use most of your power at night.
You should also consider a backup power system in the even your solar panels malfunction. You can either get a generator or stay connected to the power grid. A generator should be started regularly to keep it functioning.
Solar Energy
Determine whether or not solar energy is the right thing for you. There are many factors to consider when you are thinking about switching to solar power. Remote locations without a utility grid connection are prime solar energy sites. When you can afford a higher installation bill, this is worth investigating.
If you are thinking of buying solar energy panels, stay away from high-pressure salespeople. You are the only one who can make this decision, and you must do so by obtaining all the necessary information and weighing the costs and benefits. Buying on the spot from a high pressure person can mean making the wrong choice and wasting your hard earned money.
Pathway lighting is a simple and affordable means to take advantage of solar energy. Solar pathway lighting absorb energy from the sun during the day, then use that to light your way through the dark at night. These lights are very easy to set up and will even make your home look better.
Solar Panels
You may want to buy the least amount of solar panels possible since they are costly. Engage the services of an energy auditor. This can help you make necessary changes in regards to your energy usage habits. As a result, you can reduce the amount of solar panels required.
Remain realistic about the benefits you can get from a solar water heating system. While they do produce some energy savings, even the most efficient only use one third less energy than convectional water heaters. Early morning showers are not necessarily going to be freezing cold. Water heated by solar energy stays warm for about a day.
Prior to making your decisions about solar panels, determine how much shade is around your house. Solar panels will not function well in heavily shaded areas. A lot of shade may mean that you can’t gather as much energy, so you could simply be throwing money away on panels.
If purchasing solar panels is something you cannot afford, you should think about leasing some. That’s because leasing is much more affordable on your budget rather than buying the system. In addition, you’ll likely save more money initially due to the small upfront costs.
Investing in a sun tracker will provide you with the most efficient form of harnessing solar energy. It will also adjust your panels as necessary. This device is pricier than standard solar panels, but they will pay off in the long run.
If you were open minded when reading this article, you have hopefully become more familiar with solar energy. It saves you money and helps the environment too. Use the information here to help save the planet and your pocketbook.