Learning About Energy Use

For a few months after we purchased a home, we were really frustrated with our monthly power bill. We couldn't believe how much it was costing, but we knew that it couldn't be right. We started evaluating various ways to save money, and it occurred to us that doing something about our energy use needed to be a top priority. We focused on keeping the lights off during the day and eliminating phantom power use, and it helped us to reduce our spending. Now I can honestly say that our home is energy efficient, and it makes me so happy. Check out this blog for more information.

Here Comes The Sun: 6 Ways To Plan Your Solar Panel System Right From The Start

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When you're new to solar power, the gig is complicated and confusing. While that shouldn't stop you from moving forward, it should give you pause for concern to ensure you know exactly what you're getting into, what you're doing, and what you can expect in the future.

1. Plan Ahead—Way Ahead

The solar panel system you design and install will likely serve you for decades to come, making it essential that you accurately predict your energy needs well into the future. Having children or altering your home in any way, such as by installing an addition or new roof, will affect the panel system and its components.

2. Recognize The Need For Battery Backup

Having solar power doesn't exempt you from power outages completely, so you must have some form of backup power. Most homeowners opt for battery backup, while others rely on gas-powered generators, but one way or another, you need a source of energy to keep essentials, such as your refrigerator and stove, running during a power outage.

3. Know Your Solar Size

Because you have batteries in your solar system, you need to supply them with sufficient charge at all times. If solar size is not properly calculated, the batteries will under- or overcharge, and both scenarios are undesirable. A professional can help you coordinate the battery bank with your source of charging so that there's a steady and reliable balance.

4. Understand Your Dependency On The Electric Company

Some homeowners take the bliss of solar power a little too far, thinking it can completely diminish their dependency on the local electric company. Your solar panel system will generate electricity for you; however, the surplus must be stored somewhere, and that's when the utility company comes into play. They'll store that energy for you, allowing you to tap into it as needed. 

If you're interested in breaking free from the power company completely, commonly referred to as going off-grid, you'll need your own battery bank to store the excess energy you produce. This can be expensive and complicated, somewhat negating the savings of a solar panel system, but that's a decision each homeowner must make. Keep in mind, too, that if your energy needs change over time, the entire system may need upgrades and modifications, including your bank storage.

5. Consider Owning Vs. Leasing Options

You could lease the equipment needed for your system to cut the short-term expense, yet you still must consider the long-term cost of financing, including interest. Weigh the pros and cons before making any commitment, especially if you're new to the solar scene. While most systems start paying for themselves in a relatively short time, if you've over-financed the equipment, your savings will vary.

6. Find A Versatile And Dependable Solar Energy Company To Work With

You want flexibility with the designs of your system, but you also need the expertise to go with it. These systems are a big deal to pay for, install, and maybe even upgrade after a while; thus, you should keep as many options open as possible and work with a professional team you can trust and you know will be there from start to finish and will follow up.

Your future looks bright when it's powered by solar energy, but you need to make wise and informed decisions now. Know the gig and how you can most benefit from it and work with seasoned professionals who can guide you to maximize your returns. Solar panel system design can be a DIY type project, but only if you really know what you're doing, and even then, it helps to have knowledgeable advice.

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9 January 2019