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How is Solar Energy Used in Houses?
For homeowners thinking of making the switch to green energy, solar is the way to go. It is one of the most accessible renewable energy sources available being dubbed as the light of the future. It also comes with other perks, including local and utility incentives to offset the initial investment cost of converting to solar power.
You’ll likely get solar financing opportunities, energy-saving mortgages, and even state and federal tax credits, depending on your location. What’s more, installation companies now offer reasonable and affordable prices, complete with rebates. There’s a plethora of information readily available for anyone deciding to make the switch. For starters, the Energy Report has plenty of resources. We hope you’ll find this article useful as well.
Why Consider Using Solar Energy in Your House
There are three major considerations for those thinking of adding solar panels to their homes. These are added value, panel costs, and home viability.
Even today, the initial costs of going solar (though already decreased in recent years) can still be expensive. Hence, it is important to review when financial breakeven can occur and whether solar energy can really help cut down electricity costs. That said, you’ll be glad to know that real estate value is boosted with the installation of solar panels, making it a worthwhile investment.
Another important factor you need to assess is whether your house is viable for the technology. Roof sizing, location, amount of shade, and more are all integral factors. The size and number of panels to be installed will also depend on the household’s electric consumption.
Solar energy makes it possible for communities to have “community solar gardens,” where power is shared with houses that are incompatible with the technology. Also, employing solar energy in your home helps eliminate the unnecessary and harmful pollution caused by traditional energy, such as greenhouse gases.
With the green movement at hand and with solar, wind, and water energy harnessed for 20% of the electricity in the US, it is definitely a must for contributing to a sustainable society. Just ensure you have covered all financial and practical considerations should you decide to power your house through solar energy.
Knowing the current COMED rates can be beneficial when solar energy is not feasible for your home, as it allows you to make informed decisions about your energy usage and find the most cost-effective options. By being aware of the COMED rates, you can maximize your energy efficiency and reduce your electricity bills during times when solar energy is unavailable.
How Solar Energy is Used at Home
Given the considerations aforesaid, it is undeniable that homes with solar energy benefit from it in many ways. Note that only qualified professionals with certifications are allowed to install solar panels for your house. With a trusted contractor, here’s how you can use solar energy in your house:
It powers up your property
The technology for solar panel use is all about converting energy from the sun—a renewable, infinite, sustainable source—into electricity. Appliances, computers, and even an entire building can run via solar panels these days. With the help of tools that measure solar’s cost to utility bills, not only is electricity produced, but it also develops estimates for homeowners regarding the price to expect in utility bills.
It is a source of heating
Another way by which solar energy is used at home is through solar heating. Other than the direct conversion of heat from the sun into electricity, you can use thermal devices to increase the temperature needed for swimming pools and solar rooms. There are two types of solar water heating systems that help achieve this, namely passive and active. These solar water heaters are a more efficient alternative compared to geysers that generate a lot of power. Choosing a water heater depends on several factors, including the type and size of tank you select.
It is used for indoor and outdoor lighting.
Lighting is also one of the most common uses of this type of energy. With the help of battery chargers, you’d be able to store solar energy for use during nighttime. This way, your indoor lighting system can run 24/7 via solar panels. The use of solar lights also adds a modern touch to one’s garden or lawn lighting.
It enables solar cooking and solar charging.
Solar panels are great investments because they also make way for efficient cooking and charging. For one, solar cookers and ovens are available. They are user-friendly and enable outdoor cooking without any need for gas or electricity.
Also, charging batteries at home is made easy through solar energy. You can use solar chargers in places with no electricity, such as when camping or during travel.
It can also be used for security systems.
Lastly, you can make use of solar energy for your home’s security system. By placing solar lights in strategic locations around your property, such as the gate or the main door, you won’t have to rely on the grid to light up your house. Solar-powered security lights have slowly become a trend because they require zero energy use, have no energy cost, and are low maintenance.
Bottom Line
With the ways by which you can use solar power, the switch to this alternative energy source is undoubtedly a worthwhile investment. After all, the pros of solar energy are evident in contrast to the disadvantages brought by traditional energy use.
