With increased awareness of our impact on the environment and advances in technology, options in solar power are more prevalent than ever before. As a fast-growing industry, home solar power is a respected resource and a prolific alternative to other energy sources.
If you've resisted solar energy for your home because you think your only option are those ugly, obtrusive panels of yesteryear, think again. Today's options are plentiful and as versatile as your needs. Here are just a few ways you can incorporate solar energy into your home:
Instead of solar panels, consider having photovoltaic (pv) shingles installed on your roof. These come in a variety of colors to complement the beauty of your home, blend into your roof design and are more architecturally pleasing. They are extremely durable - capable of withstanding winds of up to 80 miles per hour.
Conventional water heating methods consume approximately 30 percent of your household energy, but a thermal water heater will pay for itself repeatedly; plus, if you choose this option, you may be eligible for rebates and tax incentives.
Many outdoor systems can be solar-powered, like garden and security lighting, but of these, the most practical is heating and filtering your swimming pool by solar energy.