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Top 5 Reasons Why Solar is the Best Home Improvement
With energy prices on the rise and the increased focus on going green, more and more families are turning to solar power to meet their energy needs. Solar is a great home improvement for a number of reasons.
Here are the top 5 reasons why you should consider solar for your home.
1. Solar Saves You Money
One of the biggest motivations for going solar is the money you can save on your electricity bills. With rising energy costs, solar can help you offset these increasing expenses. Depending on the size of your system and your electricity usage, you could see substantial savings each month. Over time, these savings can really add up, making solar a wise financial investment.
When you’re considering solar for your home, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is what size system to install. This decision will depend on a number of factors, including how much energy you use and the amount of sunlight your home receives. To determine the right size for your home, you’ll need to do some calculations. You can use a solar calculator to help you estimate how much power your system will generate. Once you have this information, you can work with a solar installer like Aztec Solar to find the best system for your needs.
2. Solar Increases Your Home’s Value
Another reason to go solar is that it can increase the value of your home. A solar system is a desirable amenity that many homebuyers are willing to pay more for. In fact, studies have shown that homes with solar sell faster and for higher prices than those without solar. So not only will you save money each month on your energy bill, but you’ll also get a nice return on investment should you ever decide to sell your home down the road.
3. Solar is Good for the Environment
Solar power is a renewable resource that doesn’t emit any harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. This makes it a much cleaner and greener option than traditional fossil fuels like coal and natural gas. Generating your own clean energy at home helps reduce your carbon footprint and do your part to create a healthier planet for future generations.
Each of us can play a role in reducing our carbon footprint and helping to combat climate change.
4. Solar Makes Your Home More resilient during Power Outages
If you live in an area prone to power outages, solar can be a great way to keep your lights on during even the longest blackouts. That’s because most solar systems are designed to work independently from the grid, so they can still generate power even when the grid goes down. This can give you some peace of mind knowing that you won’t be left in the dark during an emergency situation.
The recent spate of California wildfires has caused widespread power outages, leaving millions of people without electricity. The Camp Fire, for example, burned more than 150,000 acres and destroyed nearly 19,000 homes.
In addition to the human toll, these wildfires have also taken a significant toll on the state’s electrical infrastructure causes blackouts. With solar, combined with solar battery storage, you can protect your family against these outages.
5. Solar Provides You with Energy Independence
Finally, going solar gives you the power to break free from the monopoly of your local utility company. With your own solar system generating all or most of your energy needs, you’ll no longer have to worry about rate hikes or service interruptions beyond your control. You’ll have true energy independence – an increasingly valuable commodity in today’s world.
The justification for rate hikes of California utility companies is always the same – the need to recoup losses from damages caused by wildfires. But as homeowners are struggling to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of these disasters, it’s hard to see how they can also afford to pay skyrocketing electricity bills.
Utility companies have long been criticized for their monopoly over the energy market, and these latest rate hikes are only going to add to the discontent. Homeowners would be wise to explore solar as an alternative source of energy, which can help offset these increasing expenses.
There are many reasons why installing solar panels is a great idea for your home – it saves you money, increases your home’s value, is good for the environment, makes your home more resilient during power outages and provides you with energy independence.
So, what are you waiting for? Start reaping the benefits of solar today!
6 reasons why fall is a good time to go solar
As the leaves start to change colors and fall from the trees, many people wonder what they should do next. Curl up with a good book? Start planning their winter holiday? While those are all great options, there’s another thing you can add to that list: go solar!
Here are six reasons why fall is a good time to go solar.
Solar incentives
If you’ve been considering going solar, there’s no time like the present. Solar energy is more affordable than ever, but you can also take advantage of significant tax incentives by installing a solar pool system.
Federal and state tax credits can offset 30% of the purchase price, making solar an attractive option for anyone looking to save money on their energy bills. And if you start your solar hunt in early fall, you’ll have plenty of time to complete installation and commissioning before the tax window closes. So don’t wait – go solar today and start saving tomorrow.
Q3 & Q4 install schedules are filling fast
Solar energy is the hottest trend in sustainable living, and it’s not hard to see why. Not only is it good for the environment, but it can also save homeowners a significant amount of money on their energy bills. As a result, there has been a rush to claim the 30% federal tax credit for solar installations before the end of this year.
Unfortunately, this has led to solar permit backlogs in some cities, making it difficult for homeowners to approve their projects in time. However, acting now will give you the best chance of securing a spot on your solar installer’s schedule.
So don’t wait until the last minute to go solar – the sooner you act, the better your chances will be.
Easy and quick installations
Fall is the best time to get a permit for a solar installation. In many parts of the country, the demand for permits slows as the weather cools off, so homeowners can often get their paperwork processed more quickly.
So, if you want to go solar, don’t wait for spring; make the most of fall and get started on your project today.
Cash your excess energy
It’s no secret that solar panels are becoming increasingly popular to save energy costs. However, many people don’t realize that there are some distinct advantages to going solar in the fall months.
By maximizing your exposure to the sun during these cooler months, you can bank excess energy that you can use to offset your high-usage months during the summer. In addition, you may also be eligible for energy credits that can help further offset your costs.
So if you want a way to save money and green up your home, consider going solar this fall.
Time to make the best decision
Deciding to go solar is not a small decision. It’s not something you want to rush into. That’s why fall is the best time to start your solar journey. You don’t have the pressure of high electric bills pushing you to make the right and wise decision.
Instead, you can take your time, research and find the best solar option for you and your family.
There are several things and factors to consider when going solar, but with the extra time you have in the fall, you can find the perfect solution for your home. So, take your time, research and go solar this fall.
Beat the rush and save money
As the sun gets stronger in spring, more and more people are looking to install solar PV systems. But many people don’t realize that this time of year is actually the busiest for solar installers. Consequently, it can lead to longer than average wait times for appointments.
So, if you want to install your solar PV system as soon as possible, fall may be the best time to do it. Not only will you avoid the rush, but you’ll also likely get a faster appointment. So why wait? Go solar this fall.
In The End:
So, what are you waiting for? The days are getting shorter, and the weather is cooling down. Fall is a great time to go solar! If you have questions about how Aztec Solar can help you make the switch, don’t hesitate to reach out.
We would be happy to chat with you about your options and see if solar is the right fit for your home.
Why are solar pool heaters better than regular pool heaters?
If you’re like most pool owners, your number one concern is keeping your pool at a comfortable temperature. And if you’re like most people, you probably think the best way to do that is by using a regular pool heater.
But there is a more suitable and better way.
Solar pool heaters are more efficient and cost-effective than regular pool heaters, and can help keep your pool warm all season long. Read on to learn more about solar pool heaters and why they’re the best choice for any pool owner.
Regular Heating Pumps
Most people think swimming in a pool only appeals when the water is warm. By using electricity to move heat from the air into the water, a heat pump can quickly raise the temperature of your pool, making it more inviting for a dip.
Even on cooler days, a heat pump can still do its job, as most models can operate in temperatures as low as 45 degrees.
Solar Pool Heating
As the name states, solar pool heating uses energy to heat your pool. And just like your car and home, it’s a great way to go green and save money. Solar pool heating pulls water through a filter and then a solar collector where the sun’s energy is used to heat the water. The warm water is then transferred into your pool, making for a comfortable swimming experience.
Not only is solar pool heating good for the environment, but it can also save you money on your energy bill.
Comparing the Details: Solar Pool Heating vs Regular Heating Pumps
There are many benefits to each, but there are also some disadvantages; let’s get into them.
Upfront Costs
Solar pool heaters are one of the most cost-effective ways to heat your pool and prolong your swimming season. They’re also environmentally friendly and easy to maintain. However, remember that the cost depends on your pool size, available resources, and local rules and regulations.
On the other hand, a regular heating pump will vary between $3,000 and $10,000 depending on the energy efficiency, pool square footage and overall system quality. If you have a small pool, you might get away with a less expensive pump but if you have a large pool, you’ll probably need to spend more to get a high-quality pump that will heat your pool efficiently.
Besides, keep in mind that the initial cost of a pump is only part of the equation. Lastly, You must factor in the costs of running the pump, which can add up over time.
Winner: Solar Pool Heating
Operating Costs
A regular heating pump will increase your energy bill, and that cost will be much higher in cold months. In contrast, a reliable solar heating system can reduce your energy bill further and gives you back the money you spent on the installation. It’s important to remember that solar energy is free once you’ve installed the initial equipment. In addition, you can expect to recoup the cost of your Sacramento solar pool heating system between 1.5 to 7 years. This means you can save thousands of dollars over the system’s lifetime.
Winner: Solar Pool Heating
Eco-Friendliness
Regarding eco-friendliness, solar heating pumps are far more eco-friendly than alternative gas heating pumps. However, when choosing between regular and solar pumps, solar heating pumps are more eco-friendly as they use solar energy to heat the pool. Solar pumps are an excellent choice for those who want to do their part for the environment.
Solar energy is renewable and clean, meaning it doesn’t produce harmful emissions.
Winner: Solar Pool Heating
Lifespan
When it comes to solar pool heating systems, the old saying goes that you get what you pay for. Many things and variables come into play when determining how long your system will last. A regular electric heating pump lasts around 15 years with adequate maintenance. Solar pool heating systems can last 20-25 years.
Winner: Solar Pool Heating
In The End:
So, if you’re still on the fence about solar pool heaters, hopefully, we’ve been able to show you a few of the many reasons why they are superior to traditional pool heaters. Not only do they save you money in the long run, but they also help reduce your carbon footprint and minimize your environmental impact.
If you’re interested in learning more or want some assistance with making the switch to solar, contact Aztec Solar today – we would be happy to help!
Top reasons why people love their solar power systems
Solar power has emerged as the dominant paradigm in the field of renewable energy. You can tell just by looking around our community. More and more homeowners in and around Sacramento have solar panels on their roofs, allowing them to take advantage of all the benefits that come with using solar energy.
You should consider switching to using solar power rather than fossil fuels for a number of important reasons, including the obvious financial benefits, but there are also other essential ones.
Durable
Contrary to popular assumption, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems do not contain any moving parts and are not easily damaged. In fact, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems often demand either zero or very minimal maintenance throughout the course of their lifetime. Every solar module, also known as a solar panel, is put through a battery of rigorous tests to guarantee that it is durable enough to endure severe weather conditions such as strong winds and heavy snowfall or hail.
Good for the environment
One of the most well-known aspects of solar energy is that it is an environmentally friendly and clean power source. Utilizing solar energy is one of the most effective ways to lower your overall carbon footprint. Solar energy does not contribute to the emission of greenhouse gases, and the only resource it needs is sunlight. Solar power consumes no other resources at all. As a result, it is risk-free and good for the environment. Solar electricity is completely self-sufficient. Putting your concern for the environment on display by beginning with your home is an excellent idea.
Solar battery storage
Battery storage allows you to prevent excess electricity from being sent to the grid so that it can instead be used to power your home. As a result of being able to use the stored energy during periods of decreased generation, your dependency on the grid for your electrical needs will be reduced. During power outages and other times when there is a problem with the grid, your home will still have access to electricity because your solar batteries have the capacity to store any excess energy that is generated by your solar panels.
If you don’t have solar battery storage when the sun goes down, your solar panels won’t be able to generate any electricity, and at that point, you’ll have to rely on the power grid to supply the energy you need. With a solar battery, you’ll be able to use more of the solar electricity that you’ve generated throughout the day when it’s dark outside.
Solar pool heating
A solar pool heater is great if you want to lengthen the swimming season, minimize your energy expenses, raise the value of your property, and reduce the amount of carbon dioxide you emit into the atmosphere. But before we get into it, how exactly do solar pool warmers work?
Your swimming pool’s water will always be warmed to some degree by the sun’s heat, but only to that degree. Solar pool heaters use the sun’s energy rather than more expensive fuels (such as gas or electric heaters) to augment this natural effect while still using the pool’s existing pump.
A free source of energy
No one person or entity can monopolize the sun’s rays. However, the benefits of solar power are best seen over the course of a longer period of time. The instant you turn on your solar power system, you will begin saving money. The longer you own a solar power system, the more you will be able to reap the benefits of solar technology and contribute positively to the world around you.
In addition to its use in the production of electricity, solar energy also has another application. Solar power is most commonly thought of in relation to photovoltaic panels, which are used to create electricity from the sun’s rays; however, solar energy can also be used for the purpose of providing thermal energy. Installing solar thermal systems, which do nothing more than transforming the sun’s rays into heating solutions, is the method used to carry out this procedure.
Are you looking to buy solar-powered solutions in Sacramento? Look no further; Aztec Solar is here to help you with all your needs! Contact us today to find out about all solar products and services.
How solar pool heating works
If you purchase a solar pool heater, you can save on costs associated with heating your swimming pool by a significant amount. They have relatively low annual operating expenses and are priced comparably to both gas and heat pump pool heaters. In addition, they are more environmentally friendly.
In this article we discuss how they work.
How It Works
The water from the pool is pumped over to the collector. The water passes through a filter on its way to the collector in order to remove any leaves, debris and dirt that may be present. The water passes through a solar collector, where it is warmed by the sun. During Sacramento summers, when the pool is in use, you can make use of the collector to bring the water temperature down. If you run water through the collector all through the night, you can get this result.
When the temperature of the collector is higher than that of the pool, a flow control valve will direct water to the collector. This happens when the temperature of the collector is higher than that of the pool. However, if the temperature of the collector is the same as the temperature of the pool, the water that has been filtered will not go through the collector but will instead go directly back into the pool.
Solar pool collectors come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes and materials, all of which are determined not only by the climate in which you live, but also by the intended purpose of the collector. When the temperature of your pool is typically above the freezing point, using a collector system that is unglazed will provide the best results. These kinds of collectors do not have a covering made of glass on them (The glazing). These sorts of collectors are typically fabricated from rubbers or thick plastics that have been fortified against the damaging effects of ultraviolet light.
Unglazed collectors are typically sold for a lower price than their glazed counterparts because their designs and individual components are more cost-effective. Unglazed collectors are equally useful if you have an indoor pool; this is especially true if the collectors are intended to drain back into the pool when they are not being used.
How to Select the Right Solar Pool Heater?
Prices can vary for a solar-powered heater for your swimming pool. There are many financing options available. When properly installed, a high-quality solar heater has a payback period that starts around 7 years. This period’s length is determined, among other things, by the solar heater’s overall quality and the manner in which it was built. Aztec Solar only uses the best quality of products.
Ensure you give the following thought before investing in a solar heating system and putting it into operation.
- Evaluate the solar potential of your location. This is a crucial step when you consider that the efficiency of a solar pool heater is directly proportional to the quantity of sunlight that can penetrate your pool’s surface.
- Calculating the size of a solar pool heater – The dimensions of a solar pool heating system depend on several considerations. For instance, you need to think about the size of your pool, how long your swimming season is, the effectiveness of your collectors, the temperature you want your pool to be, and the average temperature of the surrounding area.
- Checking the thermal performance rating of the solar pool heater – One should also examine the thermal performance rating before making a purchase. This will allow you to determine how efficient the solar pool heater is.
- Consider the costs of solar heating systems for swimming pools – Before making a purchase, it is important to make an estimate of the costs associated with different kinds of solar heaters and then compare those estimates. The total cost of installation, the number of collector panels necessary to heat your pool, and the collector’s thermal performance rating are the three factors that should be considered when estimating and comparing costs.
Extend Your Swimming Season
The average person who has a pool utilizes it for only three to four months out of the year since the water in their pool can be too chilly sometimes. Your swimming season could be extended by a few months with the help of a solar heater though, giving you the opportunity to spend more time in your pool. A solar heating system can easily bring a swimming pool up to temperatures ranging from 78 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit between the months of April and October.
Are you interested in purchasing products or services that run on solar power in Sacramento? You don’t need to look any further since Aztec Solar! We’re here to assist you with all of your requirements. Get in touch with us immediately to obtain additional information on their offerings (both items and services).