When people think of solar energy, they think of the solar panels that they see on rooftops, which produce electricity for the houses and businesses below. Yes, solar energy provides electricity to these buildings, but solar energy also has many other uses. From heating water in pools to charging your phone, solar power has many unexpected uses, proving that it’s one of the most cost-efficient, convenient, and environmentally friendly ways of producing energy.
Solar Electricity
Solar power has been gaining popularity in recent years as a way for homes and businesses to reduce the cost of their electric bills. When solar panels first hit the market, they were seen as unaffordable by many, but costs have declined and more people have become interested in switching to this sustainable energy source.
To take advantage of this financially and environmentally beneficial way to power your home, you simply have a solar photovoltaic (PV) system installed on your roof. The panels then capture the sun’s energy and convert it to electricity that is cheaper than the electricity that you get from your local utility company. In some cases, you can sell any extra electricity that you generate back to your utility company, saving you even more money.
Solar Water Heating
Another way to cut your utility bills with solar energy is to use it to heat your home or business. Solar water heaters use a rooftop cell to absorb the sun’s heat and transfer it to the water tank that circulates around your home or business. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these water heaters have a 5-10 year payback on your investment, meaning that you will likely make the money that you put into the system back within 10 years.
Have a pool? You can also heat it with solar energy! If you install thermal solar energy collectors on your roof, water from your pool can be pumped through a filter, up to the collectors, and then circulated back down to the pool. Using this method to heat the water in your pool can save you thousands of dollars within 2-7 years. If you want to go a cheaper route, you can buy a solar heating blanket that floats on top of the pool. It collects the sun’s heat and transmits it to the water.
Solar Lighting
If you’ve ever passed a house and seen little lights stuck into the ground lighting up a walkway, then you’ve seen another use of solar energy in action. Solar lighting technology goes beyond lighting the inside of homes and businesses; it can light walkways, road signs, street lights, and security lights.
Solar Ventilation
Solar ventilation, like a solar attic fan, can reduce the buildup of heat in your home during the summer. These fans work like exhaust fans, pulling hot air from attic spaces and other areas. Instead of using your home’s electrical current like traditional fans, they are operated by photo-electric cells from the sun. You can put these fans in your garage, home, shed, or business to keep them cool in the summer; they can also preheat air in colder climates as well. If you are interested in a free-standing solar-powered fan, you can get one to use on your patio!
Portable Solar
One of the most frustrating parts of modern life is having your cell phone battery die when you’re out and about, especially if you’re lost. Thanks to portable solar chargers, you can keep your phone, laptop, and other personal electronic devices charged at all times.
Still Have Questions?
If you are interested in learning more about solar energy, the different options available, and the ways you can save, Go Solar Energy can help. We will connect you with a licensed agent who will go over all of the different solar options available in your area, and who will compare the prices of all of the systems. It can be a lot of information, but we will break it all down for you – and we will find you the most affordable and money-saving option for your home or business. To get connected with one of our agents, enter your zip code on the homepage, or to speak directly to one of our agents call (888) 290-3112.