When it comes to solar energy, there is no question that it is great for the environment. After all, you are using a renewable energy source that isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. However, there are a number of factors to consider when installing solar panels in your home. The following article will serve to aid you in that department.
If your roof cannot to support the weight of photo-voltaic solar panels, you can save a lot of money by investing in thin film solar panels. These panels are very light and flexible, which makes the installation much easier and affordable. Their higher price is also justified by their efficiency.
Don’t assume that just because you want to switch to solar that you will have to go all out and replace your whole roof. At the very least, you can replace your outdoor light fixtures with solar light sources. They charge up all day to shine all night, except perhaps the predawn hours of the longest nights of winter.
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.
As you prepare to buy a solar power system, don’t underestimate the importance of recommendations. Talk to everyone you know, whether they are friends, family members or even coworkers. You may be surprised by the number of people that have experience with these systems. They can tell you what they found out along their journey and guide you in the right direction.
Contact your insurance agent to find out if a solar energy system could be included in your insurance policy. Expect your homeowner’s insurance premiums to go up once your system is installed and consider switching to a different insurance agency if you find that your premiums have become too expensive.
When you look at it over time, solar power is less expensive than buying energy from a local company. Although you do have to put up a bit of money initially, a solar power system starts paying for itself right away. Once you get back your initial investment, you are simply making a profit. This is much different than getting a bill in the mail every month.
Consider changing out your windows when you install a solar energy system. Installing energy efficient windows will help your home be easier to heat and cool, maximizing your energy savings. Since you will now be providing your own power, it is a good idea to save energy wherever you can.
Now that you’ve read the article above, you should have a better understanding of how solar energy works. As you now know, solar energy isn’t for everyone, and there are many cases in which it won’t make financial sense. Use the information provided to aid you in your decision as to whether you should install solar panels in your home or not.