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It probably wouldn't surprise you to learn that solar energy is among the fastest growing forms of alternative energy out there. You've probably seen solar panels installed in many homes in your area. If you are considering turning to solar power for your energy, this article is for you. Read on and learn http://bitly.com/ everything you need to know about residential solar energy.

If you don't want to or can't go for full solar power, at least consider a solar water heating system. Many regional and community governments offer financial incentives, rebates and tax credits for even doing this, just like they do for full solar installations. Check with your local government before doing anything to know the perks.

If you're thinking about installing solar panels to generate your own electricity, make sure that the roof you'll be installing them on gets plenty of good sunlight. Good sunlight occurs between 9am and 3pm. You'll generate the most electricity if your roof receives full, exposed sunlight between those hours every day.

For the best results, place your solar panels in a location that gets plenty of sunlight. Avoid placing solar panels near trees or tall buildings because they can create shadows on the solar panels which can result in poor energy consumption. Additionally, placing your solar panels in a Southwest location will result in greater energy absorption.

Try getting recommendations for solar energy home equipment. If you have loved ones or colleagues that have solar energy at home, ask them to provide details of their experience or any issues they've been through with their system. It's important to consider other opinions on what you should or should not do.

Always use non abrasive cleansers on your solar panels. An abrasive cleaner can scratch the surface of the panel and cause permanent damage and affect how well the solar panel works. There are commercial cleaning solutions to use or you can use a pool skimmer with a very soft cloth on it.

Consider installing more solar panels than your home will ever need. If you do this you will be doing two good things. First, you will earn money on any energy created that your home does not use. Second, you will be reducing the amount of fossil fuels burned to power the homes of your neighbors.

Before signing any agreement for installation of solar energy products, get at least three estimates. Once the estimates are in your hand, read each one carefully to ensure that the installation is up to your standards. Each estimate should include a time frame of completion, a list of materials and the estimated amount of labor charged.

Have you ever been without power during a winter storm, resulting in you freezing and all your refrigerated food going bad? Instead of using a generator which will only run some of the power in your house, use solar energy. Swapping over your system can really help you to prevent power failures in the future.

Teaching your children about solar energy will help them embrace this alternative energy in their adulthood. Help them understand the difference between a renewable resource and the limitations of other types of fuel. If you start instilling this way of thinking early on, your children will be more responsible in their choices when they lead their own lives.

It is crucial to speak with other homeowners who have invested in solar panels before you consider purchasing your own green energy system. Ask about price, performances and what kind of issues they ran into. You could also get some references for vendors, contractors or repairmen. Once you have your own system, do not hesitate to help other homeowners who are interested.

When you are building your own solar panel systems, expect to build multiple arrays for the highest-efficiency. A solar panel can only generate a certain amount of energy--usually a fairly low number--which means that you need more than one panel. Multiple panels in the right spots is a recipe for success.

You can use the power of the sun to dry your clothing on a clothes line. This is an old idea that still works today. Instead of using machines when it's sunny, take your clothes and hang them in your yard. Your clothes will dry and you'll save energy and money.

Solar heating systems are available on the market for a few thousand dollars. Consider that fact that you will earn your investment back right away and you will continue to save money as the decades pass. With regards to solar panels, it is okay to install them slowly over time.

Keep your solar http://inhabitat.com/environment/renewable-energy/ panels out of the shade. It might seem obvious, but your solar panels do need sun. Make sure that you are not installing them in the shade. Trim back the branches on surrounding trees if you need to. Failing to do so could cost you more than half your energy output.

Solar energy is a big investment with big dividends for both your wallet and the environment. That being said, you have to make sure you check all references and proposed contracts from at least three contractors before moving forward with your decision and making a choice as to which contractor you're using.

Get your financial figures right before deciding on a solar system. You need to weigh the cost of the system against how much energy it will save you. Take the cost of the system and multiply it by its' lifespan. Now figure out how much energy you will use in that lifespan to determine if it is right for you.

Make sure your roof gets five hours of sunlight each day if you are thinking of purchasing solar panels. The money you spend purchasing and maintaining the system will be well worth it.

If you know someone that has put solar energy to use in their home or business you should ask them what they think about the experience. That is the only way that you can be sure that you are getting an honest perspective about solar energy. Additionally, they can help you to pick a good installer and system.

Every little bit helps to save the planet Earth. Your choice of solar energy puts money in your pocket and benefits the planet. Your power bill will double every decade, meaning more costs for you. Use the information presented here to go solar and green up your life.