The are many ways to take advantage of solar energy both inside and outside the home. For home owners that can afford the investment, solar panels that convert sunlight to electricity are one of the most practical and cost effective methods of solar for home use. The panels can supply more than 60% of the average American home's power needs. If the homeowner finances the cost of the panels, they will pay for themselves in between 5 and 15 years. After that, the cost of the electricity they produce is zero.
For homeowners who intend to install the panels themselves, they are most effective when placed on a roof with a southern exposure. Since the panels will have to be hooked into the home's electrical system, it will be necessary to have a licensed electrician complete the installation. Installing solar for home use, is not a weekend project and will be subject to home inspections by the utility company and probably the city or county where you live.
Due to global warming and the periodic shortages of fossil fuels, the US government has programs that will defray part of the cost of installing solar for home use. These may be in the form of subsidies or tax incentives. Homeowners wishing to install solar panels should check with their local utility company, and the state and federal government departments responsible for energy to find out about these programs.
There are many reasons to install solar for home use. Although the initial cost may be high, the savings can be substantial. With the cost of energy rising, the benefits will increase over time. When the power grid has a failure, you will still have some electricity to run your refrigerator and light your home. The efficiency of solar panels has increased over recent years and continues to increase, while the cost has dropped. Even if solar for home use isn't right for you now, it may be a good choice in the near future.
Aside from solar panels, some homeowners may choose to install a solar hot water heater. This may be less expensive that installing solar panels. Water heaters use a lot of your home's energy and this may be an option for some homeowners.
For outdoor use, there are many stand alone solar powered units which are simple to install and don't require any wiring or plumbing from your house. Solar powered fountains add a beautiful touch to your garden or yard. There are also solar powered aerators, and pumps for ponds and swimming pools, and swimming pool heaters. These units are designed to work entirely on their own and there is no need to turn them on or off. Solar powered outdoor lights come in many styles and can be used in your garden, along your driveway and along the paths in and out of your home. These items are ideal examples of solar for home use and are inexpensive and easy to install.
Even if you aren't prepared to make a major investment in solar for home use, you can take advantage of the technology. If you are ready to take it to the next level, check out all the available options before making your decision and then make the move to solar power. It's a great investment in your home.