Homeowners looking for ways to cut monthly expenses while making their properties more environmentally friendly do have some viable, affordable options at their disposal. Solar companies in Pennsylvania, in fact, can provide them with one of the smartest upgrades for saving money and reducing carbon footprints at the same time.
What’s Involved in Going Solar?
Solar companies in Pennsylvania can take care of all the details involved in setting up a property with its own system. While actual configurations might vary to ensure the best possible harvesting of the sun’s energy occurs during day light hours, a typical installation includes:
* Solar panels – Today’s lightweight panels don’t necessarily have to take up a lot of roof space to be highly effective and efficient. They do, however, have to be placed strategically to enable the best possible results. Panels, by the way, are required to harvest heat energy from the sun, which is later transformed into energy that can be used to power a home.
* The power inverter – This device takes the sun’s raw power, which is a Direct Current, and transforms it into an Alternating Current. AC power is what homes require so this particular piece of the solar puzzle is important for eventual output.
* The meter – Once electricity is converted into a usable form, it flows through the meter. When a home is harvesting more solar power than it needs, the meter actually feeds that energy out onto the grid so others can use it. At night, the meter might take energy back from the grid to ensure reliable, steady access to power. This give and take of energy can greatly reduce a home’s overall dependence on the grid and its expenses.
What to Expect
As you discuss this greener energy option with solar companies in Pennsylvania, your contractor should work with you to make sure your installation is designed to deliver the maximum benefits. Do take the time to make sure your contractor is licensed, bonded and ensured. It’s also important that a contractor work with you to see what incentives might be available to offset the installation of your solar power system. In some cases, going solar might not cost you a dime. In others, the initial expense will be miniscule compared to the ongoing savings you’ll enjoy.