4 ways to utilize solar power for your home

While the world is changing so must we and saving money while saving the earth is an excellent change.

here are 4 different ways to utilize solar power for your home and how much each one of them costs.

1. Solar roof panels

average cost to install $20,000

time to get money back on investment 20yrs

cost per watt/$10-12

project completion time /several weeks

average home uses 750-900 kwh/month

you willl need 400-800 sq ft of panels to offset energy usage in your home

with green energy incentives and rebates you will get your money back in a few years

2. Hot water system

Installation cost: $1,000-1,500
Project completion time: Varies
ROI timeframe: 1.5-2 years

When estimating annual operating costs you will need to know the SEF(solar energy factor) the type of auxiliary fuel typeyou will use (gas or electric)and your local utility rates.This system typically cost around $1200.00.average operating costs of 176.00 yr yielding a savings of 56.00/yr and a payback period of 1-2 yrs

Solar pool heating

Installation cost: $3,000-4,000
Project completion time: 1-3 weeks
ROI timeframe: 1.5-7 years

Solar pool heaters will last longer than both gas and heat pump heaters, although your installation cost and payback time depend on numerous factors. You will have to evaluate the site’s “solar resources” (how much sun), determine the right system size and efficiency, consider various costs and investigate all the local codes and regulations governing the installation. However, once properly installed the system should run smoothly for 20 years. In many climates, solar pool heating is the best and most cost-efficient use of solar energy.

4. Solar home space heating

There are so many ways, large and small, to “tap into” the sun’s energy for home and space heating (without roof panels). You can do everything from installing heat-collecting windows and passive structures, to converting south-facing walls to what is called a “Trombe wall.” The wall stores heat and then releases it gradually later in the day.

Conclusion

A major roof installation lives up to its name in various ways. It is a source of major power, sometimes all you will need, while it is also a major expense that often must be planned. However, there is plenty that you can do while you are saving toward that PV roof system. You can tighten up your home to be more energy-efficient, switch to “smart” appliances, institute new energy-saving habits and start taking steps toward “total solar power” with a few space-heating projects, a pool heater or a solar water heater.

There is always more you can do, and technology keeps advancing so you are able to do it better and cheaper. Set your goals realistically, update all your cost assumptions by checking today’s prices and stick to your plan. By making your own electricity you can reduce your lifetime energy costs and help the earth stay green at the same time.