Solar power is one of the cleanest ways to produce energy. The solar panels convert the energy of the sun into energy that we can use--with no negative impact on the environment and no harmful byproducts. When used for residential purposes, solar power can provide hot water, warm pools and room heating. We can also get energy to cook with. Though installation of solar power equipment for residential purposes requires an investment, it pays back over a reliably short period of time. If your home is supplied by solar power that covers only 50% to 70% of your power needs, the savings are substantial, over a period of time.
The benefit of solar power systems is that they can be installed to complement the existing, conventional power systems already in our homes. During times of extreme heat or cold, solar heating and cooling systems can be supplemented with conventional heating and cooling systems.
Using Professional Help
Depending on the type of solar power chosen, a do it yourselfer can easily install a home water heating system for $2,000 or less. You can choose systems that can store power in batteries. The stored power can be used later for heating, cooling, cooking, lighting and uses. Many DIY-ers are quite creative in using re-cycled materials to set up their own solar power generating systems. Obviously this comes at a reduced cost.
However, building your own solar power panels from online designs, using recycled materials, carry no guarantee against performance. Commercially available solar panels, which you can install yourself to save money, will still be covered by a warranty.
If you are all thumbs, you can always use the services of a qualified and licensed professional contractor to set up a solar power system for your home. This will cost more than doing it yourself, of course, but like all solar power systems, it will pay for itself over time. Make sure that your contractor offers a warranty against assured performance standards.
Most people who install solar power in their residential homes do it to heat water for their pools. Normally, large rooftop arrays of solar photovoltaic panels are installed to heat pool water and provide heated water for other household needs.
Residential Solar Power and Local Regulations
Before deciding to install solar power in your home, you should check the local regulations. Some states offer rebates or or tax credits. If your solar power system generates more electricity than you can use, it can be fed back into the local power grid and your electric account credited.
Cha-ching!
Written By: J.R. Ferrara
