You may have heard the words solar energy before, but it may not have ever registered as something important to you. However, you may not have understood that solar energy can save you significant amounts of money in years to come. The following article will help explain how solar energy works and how it can benefit you.
Your solar energy system needs to be exposed to the sun at all times. Most homeowners have their solar panels installed on their roof but you could also have some panels installed on your front lawn. Do not hesitate to cut a few trees to avoid shadows and have a professional help you determine the best place for your panels.
You should start out taking small steps when implementing solar energy in your home or business. Start by purchasing a few solar powered energy landscape lights. You can locate these at quite a few retailers, like home improvement businesses and big box retailers. Just insert them into the ground, and you're good to go.
Before you pull the trigger and buy a system, take a look https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Global_warming at how long the manufacturer guarantees the product for. You want a fairly long warranty because the system will have to pay for itself over time and help you begin to generate a profit. Therefore, make sure the warranty is for at least 25 years.
When using solar power, you do not have to worry about harming the environment in any way. Fossil fuels send harmful greenhouse gases off into the atmosphere, and they contribute to global warming and climate change. However, solar cells have no impact on the environment and are safe to use.
When you want to live in your home forever, invest in solar panels. Although the initial cost of solar panels may seem prohibitive, remember that you will soon recoup your expense with money save on energy. A solar panel investment take a lot of commitment, so make sure you are ready in advance.
A panel system that tracks the sun is a great option if you can afford it. These systems will follow the sun as it moves during the day. These cost more than fixed panel systems, but the extra energy created will make it worthwhile.
Don't underestimate the effect that shade can have on a solar panel's output. One tree branch can produce enough shade to reduce the amount of solar energy produced by almost 80 percent and that's without leaves. Take the time to properly situate any solar panels you install to maximize their efficiency.
There is really no reason to even consider getting a solar energy system if you live in an area that rarely sees the sun. This does not mean that a less than reputable company will not try to sell you a solar system though. If your roof does not receive at least 6 hours of full sunlight per day, you should not consider solar power.
Check for government certification on any solar panel you are considering buying. Consider this tip a must. The government's seal of approval lets you know that these panels are deemed quality and efficient. Plus, some of the financial benefits of using solar panels (tax credits, etc.) rely on using certified panels.
If you are building a new home, now is the time to factor in solar energy! Ask a consultant to design windows that warm your home in winter while saving you a bundle on heating. Consider planting trees for shade and leaving space in the yard for solar panels too. Building solar energy into a new home is much easier than adding it onto an old one!
Don't look at solar panels as a do it yourself project. You are putting serious funds into these panels, and any mistake can be very costly. Find the right help. Do your research online to come up with the best installers out there near you and interview a few before making any decisions.
Carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that is odorless, tasteless and deadly as well. This silent killer takes the lives of too many unsuspecting families. Help avoid this tragedy altogether by changing your current system over to safer and renewable solar energy. It will help to save you money, and give you peace of mind at the same time.
Don't waste your time lining the solar panels beneath an array of florescent lights--though it may sound tempting. Solar cells are not designed to generate a voltage from fluorescent light sources and this is a waste of energy of time. Any spot in the yard would be a better location for the panels.
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.
Almost all solar systems are scalable to the amount of space you have in your home. A complete system is not required in many cases. If you do not have the room to fully power your home using solar, you can use the space you have to power part of your home.
Think about a grid-tied solar system to boost financial savings for your green energy source. With this type of system, you can sell excess energy http://www.my-led-lighting-guide.tumblr.com/post/151955221008/improve-your-parking-lot-safety-with-led-area to your power company. This type of system allows you to offset installation costs.
When you are figuring out how much power your solar energy system will produce, remember to include any other things that can impact the panels' performance. There are outputs printed with the panels, but they're meant for locations with constant sunlight. Shade from overcast, environmental distractions, and trees that are close by can decrease your numbers somewhat.
When you think about getting solar panels for your home, think about how much wattage you need. Look over the past year for your energy usage, and make sure that you look at solar panels with your own usage in mind. That will affect how many solar panels you purchase, and how much you spend.
By reading this article, you now know more about solar energy. Solar power will help you reduce your bills and save the planet. Apply the knowledge of what you have learned today to save money and the planet!
