You want to learn more about solar energy and its many benefits. You may have heard things about solar energy in the past that have been deterrents for you. However, keep reading to learn more about how solar energy can save you money and help you fight for the environment at the same time.
Start out small when you begin using solar power. Use solar lights outside to conserve energy. These can be found at many retailers including big box retailers and home improvement stores. Installing them means nothing more than shoving them into the soil.
If you maintain it well, the solar energy system you have installed will work correctly. A monthly inspection and cleaning can make sure of this. Hiring someone to show you how to clean and maintain the solar energy system one or two times can help you to learn so that you can do it on your own eventually.
Get quotes from several contractors before signing any solar energy installation company. Just as with any other construction product, it pays to shop around before you commit to a particular company. Check out their reviews online and their standing with the Better Business Bureau. A little research ahead of time can save you a big headache later.
If you cannot afford a full-scale solar energy system, consider investing in a smaller one. Some vendors offer small systems designed to power a water heater or a generator. This small investment should help you save money within the next few years and you can easily expand your solar energy system by powering more appliances with solar panels.
When purchasing a solar energy system, make sure that you read the manufacturer’s warranty carefully. This is a very expensive item, and you want to know that you will be able to get a replacement in the event something happens to it. You should purchase an extended warranty if the one that is offered is very limited.
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.
You need to find the design date of the solar panels you find interesting. Newer solar panels are much more efficient, however you will still see vendors selling old technology. These older options are cheaper, but you’ll get better results with newer products.
Keep the weather in mind when thinking about purchasing a solar system. A good rule of thumb is to ensure your panels will receive a minimum of five hours of good sunlight per day. You should think about other green energy options if your area is cloudy a lot or very snowy in winter.
Maximize the output of your solar panels by adjusting them seasonally. Adjusting your panels twice a year, once in the summer and once in the winter, will ensure that your panels are producing the maximum amount of energy by taking into account the earth’s changing position relative to the sun.
It is vital that the person who installs your solar power system is actually licensed to do so. An installer who is not licensed may install your solar panels incorrectly, or they may violate local regulations. In addition, a licensed installer can provide you with great information about these regulations that an unlicensed installer cannot.
Solar power could benefit you, even if you live in a region that sees a lot of clouds year-round. Many people are under the misconception that solar energy is only useful in areas that see a lot of sun. The current technology actually can use the energy that penetrates the clouds to power your home.
Don’t allow the first store you visit to convince you that their solar panels are the best. It may seem that solar cells are typically the same wherever you go, but there is actually a big difference across the market and it’s easy to miss the important statistics. Pay attention to wattage, size, and cost on each option.
Do the math prior to investing in solar power. Not every location is a good bet to deliver energy savings. The best option is to look into the costs and the potential earnings (based off your sun conditions) to see what the costs will really be like. Sometimes, it’ll be way more costly to use solar.
One of the easiest things at your home to convert to solar power is your outdoor lighting. There are many attractive solar lighting options available at your local home center. These fixtures are easy to install and are relatively inexpensive. Spend some time browsing the selections and see which options will be suitable for your outdoor needs.
Contact different vendors and ask for quotes before you invest in a solar energy system. If possible, get quotes for different types of panels or mounts and compare the efficiency of each system to figure out which one corresponds to your needs and budget. Stay away from vendors who offer extremely low quotes or do not give you details on how they calculate the quote.
There are many ways to take advantage of solar energy. One of them that many people don’t know about is leasing a system. You see, when you lease a system, you lock in a rate for about ten years, which means that your rate doesn’t go up as energy costs do go up. Therefore, you have found a way to get that solar energy into your home.
When installing a solar power system, do not neglect the impact that solar shades and smart glass can bring. These devices can help absorb the sun’s energy even more than solar panels on their own. As a result, you can ensure that you receive the maximum amount of energy possible.
You now know how solar energy can benefit your home or business. Keep in mind the tips you’ve read as you put them into action a little at a time. Take it slowly, but take advantage of solar energy and how it can save you in the long run.
