If you’re reading this post, it’s most likely because you’re interested in clean and sustainable energy source. At the same time, you’ve undoubtedly heard many arguments against solar energy. This might leave you skeptical about whether solar energy is everything it’s made out to be—especially after looking at the upfront costs of installing such a system.
Going solar can sound like a risk for some people, so we’ve put together a list of solar energy products that can help you transition into going full solar, starting with the least to most impactful on your home energy usage.
Solar Attic Fan
Who’s It For?
Homeowners who want to warm up to solar energy benefits.
How Does It Work?
Your attic is one of the biggest collectors of warm air in your home. Not only does the hot sun beat on it all day long, you also have to consider that heat naturally rises. Combined, your attic can become a makeshift sauna. An attic fan can blow this heat outdoors, reducing your overall home temperature by about eight degrees.
Combining attic fans with solar energy in Sacramento, CA is a great way to reduce your overall AC energy costs. Since the purpose of the attic fan is to help reduce the heat, bright and sunny days will only increase its effectiveness.
Solar Pool Heater
Who’s It For?
Homeowners who want to see the direct effects of solar energy on a non-essential appliance.
How Does It Work?
A pool heater is one of those devices many people want but aren’t willing to devote a portion of their energy bill to. A solar pool heater becomes the perfect excuse. It’s a guilt-free way to enjoy the luxury of a warm pool!
You might be thinking, “If the best time to use a pool heater is on cloudy, cold days, then how is solar energy going to help?”
This question is based under the assumption that solar energy can’t be captured on cold, overcast days. It’s one of the biggest reasons that people are skeptical of solar energy to begin with. In truth, there’s plenty of light for solar panels to capture throughout even the cloudiest days. After all, Germany produces the most solar energy in the world but receives less sunlight per year than any part of the continental United States.
Solar Water Heater
Who’s It For?
Homeowners who believe in solar energy and want to begin transitioning their major appliances.
How Does It Work?
Very well. Solar water heaters can decrease heating bills by 50%–80% and work in any climate. However, their effectiveness depends on what kind you get.
Passive solar water heaters aren’t efficient in every situation, but if it’s right for you, it will require very little maintenance and last for a long time.
Active solar water heaters, on the other hand, are more suited to the average family’s needs. They come in both direct and indirect circulation systems, and the one you want to use will depend on the climate and some other factors.