Friday, February 21, 2014

Getting Your Power From The Sun: A Guide

By Almer Veloso


You may not understand much in regards to solar energy. Many people don't know much about the subject. Make sure you are aware of the costs and benefits before you sign any installation contract. This article will help you do just that.

You should know there are two main type of photo-voltaic panels. Poly-crystalline panels are generally less expensive; however, they are not as efficient as mono-crystalline panels. Buy the best product for the amount of money you have available to spend.

You can start out small by using small-scale solar power applications. This can be done in two ways. The first is to look for window-mounted panels that can be used to charge your portable electronic devices. Next, try to find camping equipment that can run on solar power. Each tiny bit helps you lower those bills!

Purchasing solar energy systems can save money, but keep in mind that they are a long-term investment. This can help you go green and reduce your energy bill. Therefore, you should only make an investment in solar panels when you are financially stable and intend on settling down.

When opting to lease a solar energy system, ensure that you can transfer the lease. Should you move some day, you may have to continue paying on the lease because you can't take the system with you. If you can transfer it to the new owners, you'll be fine.

Monitor your current energy use. You have to understand how much you use per day. Knowing this stuff is important when you're thinking of a solar energy system's size. Check back on your utility bills to see when you use the most energy.

Be certain to install your solar panels so that they are able to gain maximum sun exposure all year long. Take into account the seasons of the year and adjust accordingly.

It is important to buy only the amount of solar panels you need to avoid unwanted costs. Get a professional to perform an energy audit on your home. This allows you to discover your energy waste issues. That saves you on buying more panels.

You need to determine your pattern of energy usage. This can give you a great idea of how well a solar energy unit can benefit your home. This will be important information as you consider what kind of installation to invest in. It is best to review a full year's worth of energy bills to get a firm idea of your seasonal consumption.

Solar panels are usually installed in the area and at the angle that give them maximum sunlight, but over time there are things than can affect the sun reaching them. Check regularly to be sure that trees aren't overgrown and blocking the sunlight you need for your solar panels.

The angle of solar panels should change with the seasons; therefore, this means that the angle should change four times each year. As one season moves into another season, the amount and direction of sunlight will also change. By changing the angle of your panels, you can make sure to optimize the amount of energy you are capturing, making your investment a cost effective one.

When making the decision to use solar panels, you are going to need to be aware of the weather at all times. Good panels can provide enough power if they can absorb about five hours or more of sunlight each day. For example, solar energy may not be your best bet if you live an area where most days are snowy, mostly cloudy or foggy.

Never walk on solar panels unless you absolutely must. Not only are they expensive, but they are delicate as well. If walking on them is necessary, then ensure you do not walk on their ends because the ends are the most fragile parts of solar panels.

You probably have a number of reasons why you were interested in reading this article. Hopefully most of your questions concerning solar energy have been answered. Going green means switching today, so get to work.




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