Solar Panels for Beginners

In today’s environmentally conscious world, solar power is quickly becoming one of the most popular renewable energy sources. It’s clean, efficient, and solar panels can last for a quarter of a century or more. However, aside from the traditional solar panel systems to power your home or business, there are other solar panel products that you should consider as well. Not only will these products help to dramatically lower your energy costs, you can qualify for rebates, incentives, and tax deductions on some of these products as well.

Solar Hot Water Heaters

Over 30% of a typical home’s energy usage is consumed heating water. There are now solar panel products available that will take care of the entire cost of heating water. It can make a significant, positive effect on your energy bills and you’ll know that you’re doing your part to help the environment.

Solar Pool Heaters

Most pools are built in climates that are warm and sunny all year long. However, that doesn’t mean that you don’t need a pool heater. The water will not normally get as warm as with a heat pump, but they will do the job very efficiently. There is virtually no cost to operate a solar pool heater. The solar panels will require quite a bit of space to install, but once completed, will require very maintenance. In fact, most solar panels have a 25 year warranty! That’s a long time for you to see the energy savings. The drawback is that during inclement weather, you won’t have a pool heater, but with thunder and lightning, it’s probably not best to be in the water anyway!

Solar Powered Vehicles

A vehicle that is completely powered by solar energy won’t be available, at least at an affordable price for several years, but auto manufacturers are making great strides. Some companies are looking to use solar panels to run small vehicles parts, such as fans and cooling systems, which can improve fuel mileage. It’s just a matter of time before solar panel products make their way into more forms of possible transportation.

The Rebates, Incentives, and Tax Credits

Local and state governments, as well as the federal government, are offering impressive incentives to implement solar panel products into society’s daily lives. There are several restrictions that are in place as to which products will qualify. There are also regulations about when the installation is completed in order to qualify. As to the tax credits, you’ll need to speak with a tax professional to see just how much you can save. With many solar panels today, you can recoup as much as 50% of the cost through these types of programs.

A Few Final Thoughts

When it comes to solar panel products, there is quite a selection to choose from. You will not only have an energy source that can last for many years, you will also help conserve the earth’s fossil fuels. This leads to a healthier, cleaner environment now and for future generations.

Solar Panel Products Tip #1

You can build your own solar panel for less than $200 and it can power a small shop or your exterior lights. It takes about a weekend’s time and as long as you have some basic carpentry skills, it’s a pretty simple project.

Solar Panel Products Tip #2

If you decide to go completely solar, you may actually find that your electric company will pay you for the excess electricity that you put back into the grid. This can really help reduce the costs associated with new panels and installation.

Solar Panel Products Tip #3

There are even solar cookers that you can use at home, while camping, or even when RV’ing. The first solar cooker was created by in the 1700’s, so this is certainly not new technology.