Content written by-Hood Serrano

We get energy from so many sources today. Some are underground, like oil and natural gas. Others are at ground level, like water. Some are in the air, such as the wind. And then there is one final source, high above - the sun. This article will tell you how to harness solar power.

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.

Your home or business should receive at least five hours of direct sunlight per day to get the most from solar energy. Obviously more sun is better when it comes to solar panels, however if you get less than this solar energy can still be a viable option. If you are in an area where energy bills are sky high, solar might still save you money even if you don't have the optimal sun exposure.

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.

Consider your home's outside design when thinking about solar energy. Having solar-powered pathway lights installed outside is an easy way to use solar energy at home. If you're building a home, positioning it so that it can take advantage of the sun's rays is also beneficial. Well-oriented homes filter in winter sun rays in the south-facing windows and that can reduce heating bills.

Maintaining your solar power system, such as checking the inverter regularly, is an essential part of getting the most from it. You should see a green light which means all is in order. If it is blinking, or off altogether, you need to call in an expert. visit the up coming webpage aren't skilled enough to diagnose the problem. A technician shouldn't cost a thing if the panels came with the common 25-year warranty.

Many companies are now allowing consumers to lease solar energy products. This is perfect if you are unsure if you are a good candidate for solar energy or if you do not have the financial means to purchase a solar energy system. Ask your local electric company for suggestions of companies who lease solar energy products.







If you don't want to install a complete solar power system in your home, start with a solar water heating option. The energy used for heating your water can account for 35 percent of your overall energy use. The upfront cost are lower with a solar-powered heater, so you can experience a cost savings sooner.

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!

If you reside in an area where temperatures drop to freezing, you have to take special care of your solar energy system. Every time the weather gets very cold, you need to turn the system off and drain it. This will help you keep your system working for a much longer time.

You need to find an efficient way to finance your solar panels. Most homeowners borrow some money from their financial institution so they can cover the initial costs and then pay this money back in small monthly payments. have a peek at this site can even set the monthly payments so they correspond to your usual energy bills in order to keep a balanced budget.

Be wary of pushy salesmen who make promises that seem too good to be true. There are Solar companies near me chandler of these kinds of salespeople in the solar indusry. You should never have to feel forced into making a decision right away. A good deal now should still be a good deal later. Being pressured to make a decision right away can end up costing you a lot of unnecessary money, so don't allow salespeople to bully you into a sale.

Keep in mind that purchasing a solar power system often enables you to receive tax credits from the government. You may find that you get back as much as 30 percent of the total cost of your system. So, if you look into a system and think that it costs too much, investigate whether or not you will get credit back to determine how affordable it actually is.

Regardless of the solar energy system you choose, be sure your panels face the sun. The sun is where the energy comes from and it's important for them to be as exposed as possible.

Some vendors claim that they have panels able of generating power in the shade. It is true that certain technologies such as thin film panels are more efficient than other products when the sky is overcast, but keep in mind that producing solar energy in the full shade is absolutely impossible.

If your roof tends to be shady, it probably isn't the best spot to place your panels. Companies claiming that their products work well in the shade should probably be avoided. That is not true.

Do not believe the myth that installing a wind turbine will increase the amount of dead birds in your area. While it is a fact that this is a danger to birds, only two to three are killed yearly by industrial turbines. This means that the chance of this happening with a home system is virtually nil.

Although some solar power companies have not lived up to their potential, there are many reliable and reputable companies that you can work with. It will save you lots on utility bills. Find vendors and contractors in your area, and talk with homeowners who have invested in solar energy systems.

If you want to take advantage of government rebates, be sure to purchase the correct solar panels. Most rebate and incentive programs for solar energy have requirements for specific solar panel certifications. These certifications ensure the panels have been tested and proven to work efficiently. Make sure your panels meet the guidelines before you commit to a purchase.

Having read the article above, you should now have a better understanding of how solar energy works. Use the information provided to help you make the decision as to whether or not you should invest in this form of alternative energy. At the end of the day, you will be helping the environment, and reducing your expenses on power.