It seems like everywhere you go there are people touting the benefits of going green. While this may seem like something that will drastically change your life, it will definitely change things for the better. Make sure to read this article before you attempt to insert solar energy into your life.
Solar energy through the use of solar panels can last up to 30 years. It is a long-lived use of energy and requires very little maintenance on your part. Since there are no movable parts, solar-energy panels don’t break or need repair. This can provide years of electricity bill savings.
Two categories of solar panels are available. Mono-crystalline panels are the more efficient and more expensive choice. Poly-crystalline panels cost less and produce less. It is often best to invest in the most efficient product you can afford if you need a solar energy system that can power your home.
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.
Remember – you get what you pay for! Yes, there are a lot of cheaper solar panels flooding into the market from abroad. But many of those panels might not last more than a few years, and solar energy is about a long term investment. It’s better to get solar panels known for their quality that’ll last for decades, rather than a cheap option that may only last a few years.
Keep shade issues in mind when installing solar panels. A panel that loses a quarter of its light can lose half its power production. The main thing to keep in mind is tree foliage. Are any trees going to grow in between the panels and sunlight? Consider trimming them back a little.
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.
When determining whether solar energy is the best choice for you there are several consideration to take into account. First, you must ensure that your location receives at least 5 hours of sunlight each day. This will help ensure that your solar panels absorb enough energy to power your home.
When considering installing solar panels, always check for local, state or federal incentives and rebates. The initial expense of solar panels can be costly so these incentives can be very helpful. Also consider the future saving and you will see that over time, your solar panels will pay for themselves.
Get your set-up checked twice yearly. This check-up includes readjusting the panels to their proper angles, ensuring that all connections are sound and making sure that the power inverter is functioning properly.
If you are located in the Northern hemisphere, your solar panels should be facing south. People who live in the Southern hemisphere should install their panels facing north. Putting them in any other way will defeat the entire purpose since the panels will not have a chance to collect a large amount of energy from the sun.
Going green is not a fad, it is a lifestyle change that many people have made. You should think about doing the same since it will help cut down on the use of other energy sources. The information provided above should be more than enough to help you get started.
