SOLARIS ELECTRIC HOMEOWNERS GUIDE
With the passage of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act on
February 17, 2009, even more incentives have been given to Americans who
wish to install Solar Power on their homes and businesses.
Post from: Solar Panel Rental?
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Here is how you can have a heating and air conditioning system in your home that can:
• Save energy and slash electric bills,
• Cut greenhouse gas emissions,
• Rid your yard of unsightly outdoor
equipment,
• Drastically reduce the cost of your
hot water, and
• Reduce maintenance costs Read the rest of this entry
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You can find many advanced books on electricity generation that will give you tons of details. Heck, entire college courses cover this concept. If you are looking for extreme details on this, please check out your local library. If you are looking for the basics, read on.
Lets talk about what exactly electricity is before we start answering the question of how is electricity made. Think of electricity as water flowing through a pipe or garden hose. The water is really electrons in the metal that makes up the wire. The hose is the wire that transports the water (electricity). There are all kinds of fancy definitions, but that is the basics.
The first step is to create electricity at a power plant. To explain it simply, electricity is generated by magnets spinning inside a large coil of wires. The magnets spinning around cause electrons to move which creates electricity. What varies for each type of power plant is what causes the magnets to spin. This electricity producing machine is called a generator. The power created is measured in volts. You use 120 volts in your house, but the voltage levels on the power lines can be 300,000 to 400,000 volts or even more. Voltages are changed by devices called transformers which raise voltages at some points and lowering them at other times.
Most traditional electricity is generated using steam. Steam turbines are used to spin the magnets inside the coils of wire in the generator. The process starts with a boiler that heats water to create steam. The steam flows to the turbine causing it to spin. Picture water running over a water wheel and you have the concept. Steam flows through the pipes just like water through a hose. This spins the magnets inside the generator which creates electricity.
What varies in the steam turbine is the type of energy that powers the boiler. Traditionally, fossil fuels like coal or oil are burned to create the heat needed to generate steam. While these resources are currently abundant, they will eventually run out and they pollute the environment. A more modern and potentially dangerous method of heating water to create steam is a nuclear reactor. They can be very efficient, but have the potential for almost unparalleled disaster. Many energy companies like ambit energy in Texas offer environmentally friendly power at competitive rates.
Today, there are a few more methods used to generate electricity. They use centuries old technology to turn the turn the magnets in the generators. First you have wind power being harnessed by large windmills. This type of power is usually used to supplement fossil fuel generated power or even power small communities, but it has not become "mainstream" as they say. You also have huge hydroelectric power plants that harness the power of moving water to generate electricity. Certain areas of the country use entirely water generated electricity. Both of these methods can be very expensive to start up, but the power plants don't need to continue to buy fuel to burn to heat the water and make steam. They are only good in certain areas because if there is no wind or water there is no potential for generating electricity this way.
One last method of generating electricity worth mentioning is solar panels that make a solar energy home. Solar panels are mounted on a home to generate electricity for the house instead of getting it from the power lines. This is relatively new technology and still needs more development to be economically viable for most homeowners.
Once the electricity is generated, it gets delivered to your house so you can use it to power your life. The nice thing is that all you have to do is pay your energy company and they take care of the rest.
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Solar energy isn't just for electrical gurus or families able to make a large initial investment, it's for everyone.
As the price of solar panels comes down and solar technology more efficient, solar energy is quickly becoming a way for the average family to save on monthly energy bills. Keep reading for 3 ways you can save a lot of money in your home with solar energy.
1. Go solar in the garden.
You pay nothing for electricity that comes from the sun, so why not use it in your home's sunniest spot - the garden? Several manufacturers offer solar-powered exterior lights that can illuminate porches, pathways, stairwells and gardens. Some are even bright enough to provide security lighting.
These extremely efficient solar lights use electricity generated by sunlight falling on photovoltaic (solar) cells, which is then stored in a rechargeable battery for use at night.
Separate units that have a self-contained solar panel usually need to be placed in a sunny spot during the day, but lights with independent solar panels can go anywhere while you attach the panel to the roof or another sunny location.
2. Harness the sun to heat your water.
If you live in a sunny climate or can back up your solar system with a small, on-demand heater, this could be an ideal setup to save a lot of money. You'll save big on energy costs by installing a simple solar water heater to supplement your conventional water heater.
Overall, a solar hot-water system is about 50-85 percent less expensive to operate than electric water heaters. The savings over gas heaters are less substantial, but there are still opportunities to reduce your energy consumption.
Before investing in any solar hot water system, have a heating consultant evaluate the potential savings and determine the system type and capacity best suited to your family's needs.
3. Harness solar power through your windows.
Opening your home up to light can dramatically reduce your heating and lighting costs. When renovating a home, always consult a lighting expert on the best window placement for the longest amount of daylight allowance.
If you're unable to invest in new windows, try simply opening the shades on a cold winter day or brightening a dark room with light paint and sheer curtains that allow the light to come in. For little to no expense, you can save a few dollars every month on your lighting bills.
Clearly the use of solar power is not a good fit for everyone. But for those able to take advantage of its benefits, the monthly savings can be significant.
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Ecologically and economically viable sources of energy are in the form of systems which utilize solar and wind power for residential purposes. The improvement of the use of solar and wind as a source of power for residential homes gives users numerous advantages since it addresses many problems encountered by people today.
Solar and wind power could be derived through an easy yet practical way of utilizing the mechanical and heat energy emanating from the elements. Windmills have long been around and have improved through years of research and redesign.
Solar power is another great source of energy due to its great abundance. Scientists have long searched for sensible institutions to cater to the needs of electrical consumers. Here is a review behind the solar and wind utilization process:
Solar Power:
- The latest technology used is that of solar panels. These panels work by using heat from the sun and isolating the electrical components, which are the electrons. Electrons are the driving force to power electrical devices.
- The process of separating electrons from sunlight is a simple one. The parts of the panels include the photovoltaic cell and semiconductor plates that isolate electrons and store them in batteries. This process is quick, which assures reliability of solar energy.
- Tropical countries in the eastern part of the world are perfect sites for solar powered systems. In fact, people in the area have used solar plates for different purposes to power houses, cars, and cooking tools.
Wind Power:
- The blades from windmills are the key to turning mechanical energy into electricity. The blades are designed to react to wind in a rapid manner.
- Once the blades start to rotate, the mechanical force is converted into electrical impulses through the use of converters. The converters are connected to batteries, which store the energy created.
The use of solar and wind power for residential purposes allows homes from different countries to benefit from the natural, renewable resources abundant in the area. The next few decades will give people a bright future due to the constant advances in the use of these systems.
Research has shown that the continuous use fossil fuels to produce electricity have dramatically contributed to the imbalance in the weather and life cycle found in nature. This is a grave problem, which should be addressed by the government to avoid long-term destruction of our planet.
It is the job of homeowners to resort to a better way of generating electricity. The greatest way is the use of solar and wind power for residential purposes. Millions of dollars have been saved in just a few years due to the use of the energy produced by the sun and wind by thousands of homes throughout the world.
Thinking of using solar power in your home? Discover how in one weekend, DIY solar power kits can reduce your electric bill, save you money, and give you bragging rights in your neighborhood. Click here now >>> DIY Residential Solar Power and Wind Power.
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Yes unfortunately Citizenre has fallen to the credit crunch. Unable to obtain financing everything has gone on hold.
We have been looking for a local installation company we trust and have found one. I will be sending out emails, and posting an interview series with Howard Freelove of Solaris Electric shortly.
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Window Insulation
There are several different sorts of windows, including double-hung, bow, and hopper. Windows are one of the most essential choices you can realize about your residence. They offer light and ventilation, and also affect the look of your residence. Let's briefly discuss the factors that are essential in making your choices for new windows, then we'll jump right into installing.
The higher the insulating value of your windows, the longer the room stays cozy after the furnace kicks off. %No matter% how thick your wall, how thick your insulation, if you don't have good windows, you will lose cash in heating and cooling every year. Your residence will be less cozy because of the quickly change from warm to cold in the winter, and from cool to hot in the summer.
If you've read already on Insulation, you may be familiar with R-Value. This is the amount of resistance to heat transfer a material has. Another essential factor with windows though is U-Value. This is the amount of heat that is conducted from the outside to the inside by the contact made between the materials the window is constructed of. If you live in a colder area, I would recommend a value of 0.35 or less. So keep in mind that, the most efficient windows have a high R-Value and a low U-Value.
Double-Pane
When looking for a window, realize sure they are double pane. If, however, you live somewhere where it gets cold in the winter and hot in the summer, you %might have% the best windows you can afford. These sorts of windows have two panes of glass separated by an inert gas. This separation and gas offer much better insulation than just one or two panes of glass alone.
Fixed windows do not open, so they don't offer any ventilation. Casement windows have a sash that is hinged on one side, this swings outward. Bay Windows, and Bow Windows, have multiple window units and extend out past the exterior of the house. Awning windows have the sash hinged at the top. There are many, many other sorts of windows, for special applications.
Different Window Styles
Another option to entertain the idea of is how your windows open and close. These windows are generally much easier to clean because you can replace each sash, or just tip it down to clean both sides of the window. Each sash is in it's own track and moves up and down independently of one another.
Frank Sarntarpia
windows frame
Find also info on remodel contractor and solar power for houses.
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Window Insulation
Windows are basically holes in the wall. Windows are one of the most important selections you can make about your home. They provide light and ventilation, and also affect the look of your home. There are several different types of windows, including double-hung, bow, and hopper. Let's briefly discuss the factors that are important in making your selection for new windows, then we'll jump right into installing.
If you've read already on Insulation, you might be familiar with R-Value. This is the amount of resistance to heat transfer a material has. U-Value is the amount of heat that is conducted from the outside to the inside by the contact made between the materials the window is constructed of. If you live in a colder climate, I would recommend a value of 0.35 or less. So remember, the most efficient windows have a high R-Value and a low U-Value.
No matter how thick your wall, how thick your insulation, if you don't have good windows, you will lose money in heating and cooling every year. The higher the insulating value of your windows, the longer the room stays comfortable after the furnace kicks off. Your home will be less comfortable because of the quick change from warm to cold in the winter, and from cool to hot in the summer.
Different Window Styles
The most popular type of window today is the Double-Hung window. These windows are generally much easier to clean because you can remove each sash, or just tip it down to clean both sides of the window.
Double-Pane
Today, there is absolutely no reason to buy windows that are not double-pane, except maybe if you live in a climate that is 75 degrees year round. When looking for a window, make sure they are double pane. These types of windows have two panes of glass separated by an inert gas. This separation and gas provide much better insulation than just one or two panes of glass alone. If, however, you live somewhere where it gets cold in the winter and hot in the summer, you'll want to have the best windows you can afford.
There are many, many other types of windows, for special applications. Bay Windows, and Bow Windows, have multiple window units and extend out past the exterior of the house. Fixed windows do not open, so they don't provide any ventilation. Casement windows have a sash that is hinged on one side, this swings outward. Awning windows have the sash hinged at the top.
Frank Sarntarpia
windows replacing
Find also info on remodel contractors and advantages of solar energy.
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The world needs a new source of energy. The current primary energy source is fossil fuel, which is not only expensive, but also hazardous and will eventually run out. With all these disadvantages, people are now becoming more conscious of the advantages of using other sources of energy, such as solar power. But how much does solar power cost?
Using the sun's radiant energy has some great advantages. Such as:
- It is free. As long as the sun rises, you can tap into its energy.
- It has an unlimited supply. Unless you plan to still be alive in a few billion years, the sun will always be there.
- It does not make pollution.
- It will help you save money.
Solar panels today are very proficient. There are many types of panels out in the market. But the question is how much does solar power cost? The answer to that question can be tricky to answer. That's because various types of panels can be determined by the efficiency and price. The balance between these two factors might give you the answer to the question.
There are two basic types of solar panels - One is crystalline silicon and the other is amorphous silicon. Amorphous silicon is much less expensive to produce, but is less efficient in producing electricity. Crystalline silicon, on the other hand, is more efficient in converting the sun's energy to electricity but is much more costly. To be able to find the right panel for you, here are a few of the solar panels that you can buy on the market:
- Sunsei SE-4000 - This solar panel is a crystalline silicon type that has a maximum power output of 65 watts and is priced at around $650.
- Kyocera KS20 - this is another crystalline silicon type that has a maximum power output of 20 watts. Its price is about $300.
- Silicon Solar - This is an amorphous silicon type that has a maximum power output of 40 watts. It is priced at around $250.
- Sanyo HIP-195BA3 - This is a combination of crystalline silicon and amorphous silicon. It costs about $1000.
- Then there is the do-it-yourself model. These can usually be made for less than a hundred bucks. They probably won't be as proficient as the professional models and will take a little bit of your time to build it, but they can save you a lot on your initial investment.
To learn more about do it yourself solar power, be sure to read our Energy4Green review.
So how much does solar power cost? By looking at all these figures, the cost of these panels would be at $5 per watt, $10 per watt or $15 per watt. But remember that the figures shown are the maximum output. The output will vary based on the intensity of the sun where you live.
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Renovating Your Basement
Make your basement a living space
In many cases, a basement can be thought of as "found" living space in your house. If an unfinished basement or cellar can be renovated to become living space, you have for all intents and purposes increased the square footage of your house without moving. A finished basement will supply you with added comfort and convenience and can raise the future value of your house.
Renovating a cement or block makes always sense
Even if your basement is already finished, finishing again may still make sense. A previously underutilized basement spare bedroom may be transformed into that wine cellar you need, or a seldom used home entertainment may turn into the recreation room for the kids room you've always wanted. It's a good possibility that if your basement has already been renovated either by the former resident, or by you a long time ago, much of the work and expense can be eliminated from the new project.
Is your cement or block dry?
It is critical to be sure your basement will stay dry before you start your basement remodel. Kick off your project by thoroughly reviewing the foundation walls, paying added attention to the corners and the area where the walls meet the floor. Engage a specialist to fill any cracks in the cement or block walls you might spot, and it would be an important investment to have the walls waterproofed prior to starting your renovation.
Cover the walls
No matter what sort of area you are designing, you must cover the foundation walls. To cover the cement or block walls, it is best to hire a dry wall contractor who will stud out the walls and install the drywall. Finished and painted dry wall can quickly give your unfinished basement space a warmer and more lived in look.
Build a beautiful floor for your basement
The cement basement floor can be covered with linoleum or ceramic tiles, or it may be carpeted. You can mull over having your contractor install an insulated floor above the concrete slab; enabling you to keep the finishing basement warmer and dryer. A well-constructed and handsome floor gives a finished basement the appearance of being an integral part of the residence, not just an afterthought.
Proper lighting
Basements are by their very nature dim, because they have little or no natural lighting. Proper lighting is of utmost importance to a well-done basement renovation. If the basement is partially below grade, try to install as many windows as is feasible to maximize natural light. The goal of basement lighting is to permit the homeowner to forget that he is in an area lacking windows, or at best, equipped with small windows.
Indirect lighting is the most effective way to light a basement, since it gives the area a more spacious feel, and provides the impression of higher ceilings. If the basement is completely below grade, the homeowner should use as much lighting as possible to avoid having the normally low-ceilinged basement feel like a cave.
Let your decorating whims soar.
Since your basement is for all intents and purposes a gift of, let your decorating whims soar. If your pocketbook can stand it, you can switch some chilly, damp storage area into a wine cellar, a home entertainment room, a cozy den, a home office - and increase the value of your home in doing so.
Frank Sarntarpia
Find info on kitchen remodeling ideas and all about advantages of solar energy.
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