It is time to take a look at solar energy to see how it can help you save money. You also would like to help out the environment right? The use of solar energy in your home or business can make significant changes in your daily life, and just in case you forgot, it can also save you money!
There are two major types of photo-voltaic panels: poly-crystalline and mono-crystalline panels. Poly-crystalline are less expensive but less efficient when compared to mono-crystalline. Invest in the best system you can afford.
You have to maintain your solar panels so that they function normally. Inspect and clean your panels on a regular basis. You can save money by doing this yourself, but should hire someone if you don’t feel comfortable doing it.
If you cannot afford or simply do not want to completely go solar right now, you can partially go solar. If this applies to you, then determine small ways you can do this. There are two ways to do this. The first is to get solar panels that you can attach onto windows – these can be used to recharge portable electronic gadgets. The other way is to buy camping tools like lanterns and cooking equipment that is solar powered. Cutting a few dollars here and there can really add up.
If you own a pool, consider using a solar water heating system to keep it warm in the cooler months. Solar heating is much less expensive than electric or even gas heating, and it is relatively easy to install. In the first year alone, you can save about thirty percent over the cost of heating your swimming pool with electricity.
To help keep your solar energy panels running efficiently, keep a record of your solar panels performance. On this record, note when the days are overcast and how much energy your panels produced. This will help you plan your energy consumption better. For example, if the forecast is cloudy, then you should wait to do household chores that use a lot of energy.
If you are thinking about having a solar system installed, make sure that your home or business is suited for it. Sometimes the layout of the roof will not accommodate the proper angle for maximum energy production. Talk to more than one company to ensure the contractor is being honest about your solar situation.
You should know the difference between off-grid solar energy and on-grid solar energy in order to figure out which is best for you. On-grid energy requires the use of the state’s electricity grid. On the other hand, off-grid energy means the home or business uses its own solar-hybrid or solar source.
Solar energy is new and exciting. It is time that you put the tips you’ve learned here to good use as you get started implementing solar energy in your home or business. You are going to find the rewards great, and be sure you take it in stride as you take everything in along the way.