Solar Energy Around your Home
July 26, 2009 by Jason Monsky
Filed under Home Solar
You may be surprised to learn how solar energy extraction has been around for over 100 years, and during the industrial revolution, the sun was used to produce steam which would then drive turbines generating power.
The technology we use today does not rely on steam, but the charging of electrons contained within solar cells made of semi-conductive material. So, we can learn by this, that solar technology not at all in it’s infancy, as many people currently believe. We should have much more confidence in the energy we are able to harness from the sun, and use this on a much larger scale.
Everyday, more energy hits your average rooftop than the energy which comes into your home through wires. This shows you the huge capacity that solar energy has to offer.
Many people agree, and rightly so, that the best source of natural energy out there (the sun) is hugely underrated. Solar energy has the potential to provide a home with a free (or a significant boost to a) power supply all year round.
New technologies are making solar panels increasingly efficient regarding power output, durability, and their ability to harness much more solar energy on dull and cloudy days. This makes a solar panel a very good option for integration to any household.
An ever growing number of people concerned about our environment, and the future effects of global warming, have found great success in installing a solar panel and home wind turbine mix. This provides a more stable energy supply, as in the summer your solar panel can shine, and in the winter your small wind turbine will provide that extra piece of mind.
The only reason that should stop you, or put you off the idea of home energy production is the initial cost. Many people cannot afford the initial investment needed, but if you can, the future benefits regarding your extremely low electricity bills will be well worth the investment.
http://www.clean-energy-ideas.com/solar_panels.html
James Bratley
http://www.articlesbase.com/environment-articles/solar-energy-around-your-home-112133.html
Will tinting your home windows really cut your utility bill?
We are considering tinting our home windows with Scotch 3M NV-15 film. What we cannot find is any real feedback of energy savings. Can someone who has done this tell us if they noticed enough of a reduction in their energy bill to make this worthwhile?
We have researched and decided against solar screens (too hard to clean and they sag; some HOA’s ban them around here). Just interested in window tint please.
Thanks.
Tinting them will keep it cooler in the summer, therefore less air-conditioning bills. But also in the winter, it keeps the sun out, so higher gas bills.
References :
Yes, but I can’t quantify the savings. One source says single pane windows can account for about 17% of home heat losses.
You might explore electrochromic glazing on the Internet. This is glazing whose tint can be controlled by electrical current. Developed by Lawrence Livermore National Lab.
References :
Window Films immediately reduce the heat gain coming in through your windows. The windows in your home represent 45% of your home cooling- electric bills. This becomes even more beneficial if your windows face south or west.
The NV 15 film is a dual reflective film that is cutting 85% of the glare. Comparable to that film is the VISTA 14 Dual Reflective series that is slightly darker and comes in wider widths. You might also consider the Vista V-28 Dual Reflective series or dare I say the NV 25. This slightly higher Visible light transmitting film will keep the room brighter with excellent heat gain reduction.
For your local VISTA Dealer check http://www.vista-films.com
Shop and compare.
Check with your local utility for energy rebates in your area. Some utilities offer $1.00- 1.50 a sq foot rebate. You should also check this site http://www.windowfilmtaxcredit.com for IRS incentives for installtion of these films.
My preference s the V14 over the NV15 simply based on the optical clarity of the film and the wider widths available. Both films will pay for themselves in less than three years , bot cut your UV by aalmost 100% and both have lifime warranties.
References :
I am currently the president of Advanced Film Solutions, http://www.advancedfilmfl.com and until February was the 3M Window Film Account Exec for Florida and formerly the National Sales Manager of 3M Window Films .