Solar Energy: A Free Energy Source

You may not know much about solar energy. Few people really understand the topic. Make sure you are aware of the costs and benefits before you sign any installation contract. Continue reading this article to learn things you must know about solar energy.

Photo-voltaic panels come in two main types. Poly-crystalline panels tend to be cheaper but they are not as efficient than mono-crystalline solar panels. Do not hesitate to invest in expensive solar panels to put together an efficient solar energy system.

If you really want to see how your solar panels are working, keep a diary of the day to day energy output. Make a note if you are recording data on a particularly dark or shady day. Having this information can help you to understand how your panels work, and this can help you to optimize their performance.

When it comes to solar energy, you must keep the solar panels clean for best results. Dirty solar panels do not allow the solar panels to absorb the maximum amount of energy. Therefore, to ensure your solar panels are running at peak performance, keep a regular maintenance and cleaning schedule.

Should your solar panels fail to work as they should, it is good to have a backup plan. One option is a generator; however, you might want to consider remaining connected to your power company's grid. Test any generator you do have to ensure that it works when you need it.

For the best results, place your solar panels in a location that gets plenty of sunlight. Avoid placing solar panels near trees or tall buildings because they can create shadows on the solar panels which can result in poor energy consumption. Additionally, placing your solar panels in a Southwest location will result in greater energy absorption.

Consider your home's outside design when thinking about solar energy. Having solar-powered pathway lights installed outside is an easy way to use solar energy at home. If you're building a home, positioning it so that it can take advantage of the sun's rays is also beneficial. Well-oriented homes filter in winter sun rays in the south-facing windows and that can reduce heating bills.

Before you invest in a solar energy system, find other homeowners in your areas who use solar panels. Ask them how much energy they are able to generate thanks to their system and find out how much the installation cost them. This will give you a better idea of what to expect.

A panel system that tracks the sun is a great option if you can afford it. This type of system moves with the sun throughout the day. While it may be more expensive, the energy it produces is worth it.

Before installing solar panels on your roof, check with your home owners association. Some associations have restrictions on what you are allowed to do to the outside of the property, and this might mean solar panels are not an option for you. It is better to have this information up front than to purchase the panels and be forced to remove them at a later time.

Look into the warranties of the solar panels you are considering. A quality solar panel should have a warranty for twenty years or more. If you don't get that with the panels you are considering, then move in a different direction. It may cost a little more, but it'll be worth it for the peace of mind.

Many people do not really know much about solar energy. You now should know more concerning how you can use solar energy to help you. You are likely very aware of perks that you can attain with solar power. When you decide to move forward, remember everything you've read here.