It is not just the leaders of the nations who are concerned about depleting energy sources; ordinary citizens are worried too. That is why many homeowners are opting for solar power installations. They realize that the sun is a free, eco-friendly, renewable, and sustainable source of energy. You could emulate their example, especially if you wish to save money.

Generate your Own Electricity

Solar power installations do not comprise of too many components. The major one is solar panels. These panels may go onto the roof or into the backyard. Rooftop solar panels mimic rooftop tiles.

Therefore, the installation doubles as a rooftop and sun’s energy harvester. In case you prefer the solar panels to remain in your backyard, you may ground mount them or place them on the roof of the shed. Wherever you place them, the panels capture solar energy and generate direct current (DC). When connected to an inverter, DC converts into AC (alternating current). All the appliances in your house can utilize this current for functioning.

You may engage a professional to take over the installation. However, this is going to be a costly affair. Alternatively, you may decide to do everything yourself. The instructions outlined in the DIY (do-it-yourself) kit are easy to follow. You may approach solar power retail outlets or building supply stores for your purchases.

The pricing for solar panel systems depends upon diverse factors. One is the size of the system. The size depends upon the potential power output. To illustrate, low power units suffice for small water pumps, outdoor tools, and outdoor lighting. Generating electricity for indoor use will require a more powerful system.

Regardless, once the entire system gets going, you will begin to save on your monthly electric bills. Within a short time, you will gain good returns on your initial investment. Since solar panels have a lifespan of 20-25 years, you should be able to save more and more.

Let the Sun Heat your Household Water

A traditional water heater functions on electricity or gas. Now, you may opt for active or passive solar water heater systems. Just think of how much money you can save!

Active Systems

They are suitable for regions with freezing or near-freezing temperatures in winter. If you live in such geographical locations, you may avail of the direct/indirect circulation system.

The direct type comprises a mechanical circulating pump. It pushes household water into solar collectors. They are akin to storage tanks. Once the water heats up, it reaches diverse parts of your home through water pipes. You may use this system if the temperature in your area never reaches the freezing point.

The indirect type works well in freezing temperatures. Here, a non-freezing liquid moves through the solar collectors first. Then, it goes into a heat exchange. The water there absorbs all this heat, prior to circulating within your household water pipes.

Passive Systems

They are more affordable than active water heating systems. However, they are lower in efficiency too. A mechanical pump is not in evidence in these systems. Passive systems are of two types. You install them on roofs.

The Integral collector-storage type is suitable for regions that rarely witness freezing temperatures, but require substantial amounts of water. The solar collector is within the water storage tank. The sun heats the water directly.

The Thermosiphon type has a heavy storage tank. It rests in a higher position than the solar collector does. The sun’s heat warms the water inside the solar collector. The heated water moves upwards into the storage tank.

Use Solar Ventilation Fans

Tropical summers can prove to be terrible! Therefore, you look for methods to remove hot air from rooms, kitchens, attic spaces, etc. These methods include the usage of ceiling fans, air coolers, air conditioners, or exhaust fans. Whatever you use, the appliance connects to the main electricity board. Naturally, you spend more on energy, rather than save on it. A healthy alternative is ventilation fans. They are easy to set up and affordable.

You may purchase a few roof vent fans from a local retailer. It is easy to mount these self-contained fans on the roof. Every fan contains a small solar panel. The panel comprises of photovoltaic or photoelectric cells. They capture solar energy and help the fan to work.

You will not need to use any electricity at all. Use these ventilation fans for the kitchen, garden shed, chicken coop, garage, doghouse, etc. As for your kids playing areas, the verandah/patio, etc., opt for solar-powered fans. They are free-standing and require no installation.

Those mentioned above are just a few examples of highly useful, solar-powered assistants. Used consistently, they can help you save plenty of money. You may also go in for solar cookers, solar lighting, solar-heated swimming pool, etc., for saving more money!