The sun is the strongest power source we have on planet Earth. It’s unlimited by human standards. The sun will one day fade out, just like other stars in the universe. However, experts believe that won’t begin to happen for at least another 5 billion years. In the meantime, our closest star will continue generating mostly untapped energy.
Switching to solar can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars this year. How can you use natural sunlight to cut your energy costs at home?
- Switch to Solar Outdoor Lights
Outdoor lighting makes homes safer and easier to navigate. They reduce tripping hazards after dark and can alert you if someone comes onto your property. However, leaving traditional lights on all night will increase your electric bills.
An easy solution is to install solar lights. Many types are available. You can start with simple garden stake lights or attach solar flood lights onto your home. Many models will automatically switch on at dusk. There are also motion sensing models for added safety.
- Let the Sun Warm Your Home
You can warm your home with the sun without installing anything. On cool days, go through your home and open the curtains on any windows that face the sun. The light that shines in brings warmth with it, taking some of the stress off your heating system. If the system doesn’t have to work as hard, then it won’t consume as much electricity from the grid.
- Install a Solar Water Heater
If you aren’t ready to go all-in with solar, you can instead add a few solar features to your home. A solar water heater is a great choice. The average water heater runs approximately three hours each day. A 50-gallon, 5,500-watt unit will cost over $780 to operate annually (with an electricity rate of 16 cents per kilowatt-hour).
You can eliminate that expense by installing a solar water heater. This appliance utilizes a solar thermal panel that uses sunlight to heat water that can be used in your home.
- Drive an Electric Car with Solar
The next time you are in the market for a new vehicle, consider buying a solar or hybrid model. If you have an electric car, you can recharge it using solar panels. Some carmakers, like Toyota and Hyundai, build models with roof solar panels included.
Driving on solar power means that you won’t have to worry about changes in oil prices.
- Use Solar Panels to Power the Garden
Another way to gradually introduce solar panels to your home is by using them to power your garden. A few panels on a shed or installed on your property can be used to run irrigation systems, garden lighting, or water features like fountains.
You can leave these features on all the time without causing your monthly utility expenses to go up.
- Become Energy Independent
Connect Electric Glen Eira believes that the best way to save with solar is to install a residential system on your home. It may seem like a big initial investment, but you can enjoy years of cost-free power. Solar panels are low maintenance and usually last for over 20 years.
Learn more to find out how you can save money by harnessing the power of sunlight!
