The shift to solar energy is gaining in popularity. Businesses and private residences alike are gradually converting to this cleaner source of energy. If you want to learn more about making the shift to a better and more sustainable source of power, read this article for tips that can help you get started.
If you're thinking about installing solar panels to generate your own electricity, make sure that the roof you'll be installing them on gets plenty of good sunlight. Good sunlight occurs between 9am and 3pm. You'll generate the most electricity if your roof receives full, exposed sunlight between those hours every day.
Don't be scared off from solar energy because you see certain companies shutting their doors. Solar energy is a big part of the country's future. It's not only great for the environment; it also saves you a lot of cash. That's a win-win across the board, and you'll be happy for looking into it now.
Know that solar panels do http://www.linematerial.com/content/public/en/bussmann/wireless/resources/distributor_locatornew.html not immediately mean free energy forever. You need to be mindful of the fact that solar installations often carry a large up-front price tag. However, you also need to balance that with how much energy you can save over the long run, government incentives and the possibility of selling your excess power into the grid.
Leasing a solar system is an option if up-front costs are prohibitive. In the long run, buying a solar energy system is always the better option, however leasing can still result in lower bills overall. Leasing a system will let you take advantage of the energy savings right away, however be aware that you can be stuck with your contract for up to 10 years.
Don't underestimate the importance of doing business with a reputable solar panel supplier. Although it may be tempting to purchase inexpensive panels from an overseas supplier, in the long run that may not be beneficial. Try to find businesses that will still be in operation in twenty years so that spare panels for your system will be readily available.
Before signing any agreement for installation of solar energy products, get at least three estimates. Once the estimates are in your hand, read each one carefully to ensure that the installation is up to your standards. Each estimate should include a time frame of completion, a list of materials and the estimated amount of labor charged.
There are many companies who claim to be specialists in solar conversion. However, it is up to you to confirm that they have the proper qualifications and credentials. Check with the Better Business Bureau for their current business standing. Do an online search for any reviews. If you turn up any negative information, look for another service.
Many governments offer tax savings for consumers who install green energy products. These tax savings can help offset the installation cost of a new solar energy system. Additionally, many state's also allow you to deduct some or most of the costs of the installation on your state's tax return allowing double savings.
Keep your distance from pushy solar panel salespeople. This industry has a lot of salespeople like this. You should always consider such an expensive investment carefully and get several estimates. Tell them that if their deal is what they claim, it should be around in a month or so. You will more than likely regret the decisions you made under pressure.
Figure out how geography factors into the cost benefit analysis of solar panels. Two things have to be taken into account. First, your global latitude and distance from the equator determine your sunlight amounts and angle. Secondly, your local and national government come into play too, given any rebates or incentives they might offer. Both of these need to be factored numerically in determining if solar panels are going to even make or save money for you.
Keep your solar panels clean. If your solar panels are dirty or obstructed in any way, they won't work as well. Keep an eye on your solar panels and clean them if they're not quite looking their best. Hosing them down occasionally will ensure that they are much more efficient.
Do you have a pool? You could save a lot by investing in solar panels. There are small solar energy systems designed to power a water heater or a water pump and since you only use your pool during the warmer months, your panels will work perfectly when you need them.
You should check the background of the company you're buying your panels from. You'll want use a company that will still be in business 20 years down the road. This is important for your warranty, as you want to make sure you are able to get new panels should a problem occur.
Living a green life helps protect the environment and generally helps you save money. By choosing solar energy options such as solar heating, solar hot water heating and solar lighting, you can rest assured that you are helping to save the planet. Keep your solar http://www.greenenergyuk.com/ products free from dirt and debris for best results.
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.
If you do not have enough room on your roof to install solar panels to power your home, consider buying a heat transfer system instead. A heat transfer system will heat the water in your home. Usually in a standard home up to 20% of the power bill is spent on heating water sitting in a tank.
When installing a solar power system, you need to make your home energy efficient. Put in new installation, replace incandescent light bulbs with florescent ones, etc. If you reduce the amount of solar panels you need, you can reduce the size of your solar system. As a result, you can save a lot of money.
When you choose to make an upgrade to solar energy, you are making a lifetime investment that will always provide some benefit. Most solar panels have an expected life between 5 and 25 years, depending on the quality of the manufacturer. Among these numbers, most devices last up to 80% of this maximum and come with warranties to cover this period.
Anything that saves us money is favorable these days, as is something that pollutes the environment less. Why not seriously think about converting to solar energy? Hopefully this article has answered your questions and sold you on the many benefits that solar energy has to offer in your home or business.
