Inexpensive Ways to Use Solar Energy

Technological advances in recent years have made using solar energy to power the home a viable alternative to traditional methods. Harnessing the energy from the sun is free and environmentally friendly, which is important for many people who are concerned about climate change and pollution. However, a lot of people are reluctant to use solar energy to heat and power their homes due to the initial costs involved with installing the equipment. There are ways to harness the power of the sun without having to install expensive solar panels. Below are a few, inexpensive options that can be used around the home.

One way to make use of the solar energy that the sun produces is to take advantage of it passively. This entails letting the sun shine into the home to heat the space naturally without electricity. Installing large windows into a south facing wall and keeping the shades open during the day can help to heat the house dramatically since this side of the house receives continuous light. Also, installing skylights can help to improve the flow of sunlight into a home. Not only will these two options help to heat a home in the winter, but they can also help to cool a home in the summer by providing enough light so that light bulbs and lamps do not need to be turned on, which can produce heat. Studies have shown that relying on windows and skylights to help heat a home can save as much as 20% on heating costs.

Another place where homeowners can save on their utilities by using solar energy is for outdoor landscaping. Flood lights and garden lights used to light up the exterior of a home use a lot of electricity. Fortunately, there are solar powered versions that are available. These flood lights and garden lights are equipped with small solar cells that collect solar energy during the day. When the sun goes down, light sensors on the flood and garden lights detect the darkness and turn the lights on automatically. Not only does this save a person from having to manually turn on the lights, but since there are no wires or power cords involved, these lights can be placed virtually anywhere.

By harnessing the natural power of solar energy, it is possible to heat a home and provide light without installing expensive solar panels.