Solar energy is becoming extremely popular for both homeowners and business owners. You may have a natural resistance to using the sun's powers, but have you asked yourself why? If you find yourself lost in this matter, read on for more information. Read on to educate yourself.
The amount of power you can produce with your solar energy system depends on the number of panels you purchase and on how efficient these panels are. Do the math and figure what you require. It might be more interesting to invest in the most performing panels if this means purchasing less panels.
Get quotes from several contractors before signing any solar energy installation company. Just as with any other construction product, it pays to shop around before you commit to a particular company. Check out their reviews online and their standing with the Better Business Bureau. A little research ahead of time can save you a big headache later.
Do your own research and find out if there are any rebates available for adding a solar system to your home. There are many local, state and federal programs that offer rebates for installing solar power in your home. Also check to see if you are eligible for tax incentives as well.
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 often travel with your electronic, you should consider investing in solar-powered chargers. These chargers include a small solar panels that can generate enough power to charge your cell phone or another electronic device such as a laptop. There are even cases including a small solar charger designed for tablets.
Once your solar panels are installed, you need to keep track of how much power you are producing and using on a daily basis. Invest in a quality monitoring system and look at the data as often as possible. If you notice your panels are not producing as much energy as usual, it might be time to clean them.
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.
Think about heating your hot tub or pool water with solar energy. These devices are some of the most energy consuming things that people have in their homes these days. If you use solar energy instead of standard energy to power these you could greatly reduce your carbon footprint and save money in the end.
Make sure to watch the light on your solar panel inverter regularly. Check it at least a couple of times a week, while sunlight is hitting your panels. The light should be green. If it is not, your panels might not be working correctly, and it is time to call in a technician.
You should hire a professional to inspect your solar panels twice a year. This check involves examination of the connections as a means to make sure that the panels are angled properly and that the power inverter remains in good working order.
Consider selling extra energy back to your local utilities. If you live in an area of abundant sunshine, you may be able to not only save money on your power, but earn a little extra too. Many power companies allow solar energy users to sell extra power back to them, so be sure to take advantage of the opportunity.
Always look for a good and qualified contractor to install your solar system. Just because you are having a new technology installed on your home, does not mean that you should look for new contractors. The type of work is very specialized and having a quality contractor with a proven track record is critical to having your system installed properly
Check with your local power company as to whether they have a program to buy excess electricity collected by your solar panels. Some utility companies will give homeowners credits to apply to any energy provided to them. These programs are becoming more available as more and more people install solar panels on their home.
It is vital that the person who installs your solar power system is actually licensed to do so. An installer who is not licensed may install your solar panels incorrectly, or they may violate local regulations. In addition, a licensed installer can provide you with great information about these regulations that an unlicensed installer cannot.
If you are thinking about using solar energy in your home, you can now do-it-yourself. Everything needed to get your home powered by the sun is now available online and ready for purchase. You can save thousands on your solar system by learning about how to install a system for yourself and doing it yourself.
Consider investing in a high-quality inverter to go along with your solar system. This is essential if you are planning on running your typical household appliances off of the stored power. The panels work with 12VDC in most situations, but an inverter takes this low DC voltage and produces a higher, 110-120VAC output.
If you own a pool or hot tub, you might want to get a solar water heater. Solar-powered water heaters convert sun rays into power that can be used to heat the water in your pool or your hot tub.
If you own your own business, consider installing solar panels to your building. This will help cut your overhead expenses. Solar energy can power your computers, lighting and other office equipment. Additionally, business owners can get tax breaks for installing energy saving green products such as solar panels and solar hot water heaters.
As you already know, solar power has so many advantages for you and the environment. After reading this article, you know more about how to use this energy. Use everything you've learned, and see how solar energy can help you!
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