How to Switch to Solar Power
Solar power has come a long way in the last few decades. What once seemed like an ecological pipe dream has become a viable means of producing electricity. To save money on your electric bill and preserve precious environmental resources, you should consider a switch to solar power. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Solar cell panels
- Battery bank
- Solar attic fan
- Solar heating system
- Solar water pumps
Instructions
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Install solar cell panels across your home's roof to harness solar power. Also known as photovoltaic or PV cells, solar panels can be installed in a variety of colors and styles to match any custom-design ideas you may have. Keep in mind that the process of installing solar panels can be quite demanding and technically rigorous.
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Store the energy collected with solar panels by installing a nearby bank of batteries. A battery bank can store surplus solar power for a rainy day when new solar power can't be generated. For maximum power storage capacity, use deep-cycle batteries.
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3
Use a solar powered attic fan to move hot air from your home's attic. These fans are relatively inexpensive and can reduce the strain on your home's air-conditioning system. A solar attic fan can also prolong the life of any solar equipment installed on your roof by reducing the temperature and moisture levels in your attic.
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4
Heat your home with solar power instead of more costly and environmentally unfriendly means. A solar heating system can be used to heat your home's water or swimming pool as well. While the equipment and installation costs are substantial, government figures indicate that a solar heating system can reduce power expenses by as much as 80 percent in sunny regions of the country.
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Replace your old water-piping systems with energy-efficient solar pumps. Solar water pumps can be especially cost effective in remote, rural areas where traditional water-piping networks are scarce. Install solar panels, and use them to power batteries that manage the flow of water to your home.
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Tips & Warnings
Save on your taxes. The government offers special tax incentives to encourage citizens to switch to solar power.
Making the switch to solar power is one key step in conserving power. Continue to reduce your power consumption by limiting the amount of power used on everyday appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators or laundry machines.
Check the local building codes in your area before attempting to install solar panels. You may need to obtain special permits before beginning construction.
Consider purchasing the services of a professional construction team to help with the installation of solar equipment.
