Do You Want To Know More About Solar Energy?
Solar power has been around for a while and the popularity of this energy source increases with each year. Everyone from home owners to business owners are reducing their costs by installing solar energy arrays. The following paragraphs will help you understand the simple benefits and inner workings of solar energy.
Are you wondering how you can help to reduce your carbon footprint on the earth? There are many small ways that you can do this, but by switching to solar energy you can help to make a big impact. Solar energy is renewable, meaning healthy for the environment and good for your wallet too.
If you don't want to or can't go for full solar power, at least consider a solar water heating system. Many regional and community governments offer financial incentives, rebates and tax credits for even doing this, just like they do for full solar installations. Check with your local government before doing anything to know the perks.
For the best results, place your solar panels in a location that gets plenty of sunlight. Avoid placing solar panels near trees or tall buildings because they can create shadows on the solar panels which can result in poor energy consumption. Additionally, placing your solar panels in a Southwest location will result in greater energy absorption.
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 after installing solar panels you find that you are producing more energy than you need, you can sell the extra energy that you produce back to the electric company. This method will help you recoup the cost of your solar energy system's installation and parts. Additionally, after you have recovered your costs, you will be making a profit.
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.
As a business entrepreneur, you want people to look at your business in the best possible light. One way to show your customers and potential customers that you are doing your part to be eco-friendly is by choosing to run your business with solar energy. This will help appeal to those who are conscientious about the earth.
When you look at it over time, solar power is less expensive than buying energy from a local company. Although you do have to put up a bit of money initially, a solar power system starts paying for itself right away. Once you get back your initial investment, you are simply making a profit. This is much different than getting a bill in the mail every month.
Consider complementing your solar panels with other forms of energy production. Aside from night, your solar panels are least productive when it is cloudy, which usually means winds, rain or both. Put in some small wind turbines on your roof and micro-hydroelectric generators at ends of gutters for some power production when solar panels are not up and running.
Panels need to be placed where the most sunlight is found. Keep an eye on trees to make sure that they don't grow and block your panels over time.
Never install solar panels in a place that can easily be affected by storm debris. Solar panels are extremely sensitive, and because of this, should never be placed near trees or other tall structures that could cause damage to your panels if a strong storm were to hit the area.
If you are new to solar energy and cannot afford to purchase solar panels, consider leasing them. This can reduce your payments dramatically while giving you the same benefits.
You don't necessarily have to stick the solar panels in the typical locations you see in the brochures. There only needs to be a small gap of approximately 1" behind the panel for air circulation. You can find interesting positions anywhere on your property that work with the style and design of the surrounding area.
Set up time every few years to clean the areas around your solar panels. These panels don't take a lot of maintenance, but you want to upkeep the area around them so that you lower the potential for issues. Clean out leaves, remove any debris, and test all of the fittings to make sure all is well.
If you have read this article with an open mind, it has hopefully helped you get better acquainted with the subject of solar energy. There is no real excuse, as it helps both the planet and your wallet. Use the knowledge you've acquired to save the planet and money.