Pros And Cons To Solar Energy

Solar heat is a renewable form of energy that you can use in your home. The benefits are many, but before you install your solar panels, there are a few things you need to consider.

First, a word about how solar panels work. Solar panels are designed to heat water (thermal solar systems) and/or to produce electricity (photovoltaic systems). A water heating system contains a collector that absorbs solar radiation and converts it to heat. The heat is then carried to the hot water tank by means of a heat-conducting liquid. Electricity systems, on the other hand, utilize positively and negatively charged layers of silicon to create an electric field. The light from the sun produces an electric charge when it touches the panel. The charge is passed through the field and concentrated into an electric current by a conductive metal. This current then powers appliances inside your home.

Every minute, the sun provides enough energy to meet all of the world's power needs for an entire year! And this energy is completely free. Using a solar panel to access the power of the sun will dramatically reduce your fuel bills--not to mention your environmental impact. However, while you will save money in the long run, the cost to install a solar panel is not insignificant. New panels go for about $700 each; used panels are another option, but they are ten percent less efficient than new ones. Your decision about whether or not to purchase a solar panel should take into consideration how much you currently spend on electricity and heating.

Generally speaking, it will take at least five years before your solar panel has paid for itself. If you plan to stay in your home for much longer than that, then a solar panel is a smart investment. If you're planning to move, you can still benefit from installing a solar panel, as it may add some value to your home. You should keep in mind, however, that some homebuyers may find a solar panel to be an unattractive addition to the roof. Another factor to consider is how much sun exposure your house has. If you live somewhere that is usually overcast or surrounded by large trees, solar energy may not be the best solution.

Some states do offer incentives for you to install a solar panel; check with the Database of State Incentives for Renewable Energy for more information. To save money on the installation, you may be able to find do-it-yourself installation kits and/or enroll in solar panel installation training.