Using solar energy in homes used to be rare. However, today there are many families using solar energy to be environmentally responsible and save money. Installing a residential solar energy system may seem overwhelming but with help appropriate to your needs you can get the job done.
Solar power house systems are not overly difficult to install. They are self contained and modular which makes them easy to service as well. The nature of your homesite and the orientation on your home’s roof to the sun will determine how the solar panels will need to be installed. It may be necessary to install them near your home with a ground stand rather than mount them on your roof to more effectively collect the sun’s energy.
When installing a home solar energy system you may want to also have a battery storage system to provide power when there is a solar deficit and avoid interruption should a power outage occur. With one, when all your neighbors have no power your solar power house is running like normal. Without a battery storage system surplus power is can usually be used to reverse your electricity meter for a reduction on your bill.
Your decision on what type of system will in part be determined by whether you are going to have it installed by a contractor or build it yourself. Both approaches have different options, and depending on what you want and what works best for your home you will have the choices of what you want to do as far as type. Depending on the particular circumstances, it is sometimes a good idea to have an independent solar consultant give you recommendations if you do not feel qualified to do your own research.
Regardless of your approach, you will want to take a good look at the appearance and of type of system that seems best for your home. Consideration should be given to such factors as the elevation of your home for accessibility and they style of your home.
Installing a residential solar energy system can be done by the homeowner. However, there are some complexity and safety issues related electricity hook-up and plumbing to consider that may require a licensed contractor. However, the labor expense portion of the installation of a qualified solar system will also apply against most government tax incentive programs for solar.
Short video describing a small solar power electricity system. It consists of twelve 1 amp solar panels (15 watts each for a total of 180 watts of power – per hour). It is used to run all lights (CFL’s), fans, tv’s, and stereos in my solar power house. also the microwave, coffee maker, blender, can opener, sandwich grill, toaster, vacuum, and computer. Run time for lights/fans only is approx 8 hours. Add in vacuuming, microwaving or toaster along with lights, tv and the fans and the run time is reduced to 4-5 hours a day. Total cost was about $1200 to $1300
