You don't have to be a professional to understand you home's heating system. While repairs and installation in this area of your home are best left to professionals, that doesn't mean that you shouldn't make an effort to understand how it works and what to do when minor things go wrong. Solar options are becoming more and more popular, so if you're considering switching to solar heat, here are some of the questions you should know how to answer:
Is solar heat a viable option, even on a low budget?
Yes! Installing an active solar heating system isn't for everyone. Both solar panels and a liquid solar heating system can be expensive. However, all home can benefit from passive solar heating, which doesn't cost nearly as much. Essentially, passive solar heating just requires you to make smart design choices.
What is an active solar energy system?
When most people think of home heating systems that use solar energy, they think of active systems. With this kind of home heating, you have to install either solar panels or a liquid solar energy system. The panels or liquid absorb the heat, which is transferred to a storage unity and turned into energy to heat your home or power your home's electricity. Active solar energy systems are dropping in price, but can still be quite expensive.
What is a passive solar energy system?
With a passive solar energy system, you still need a traditional way to heat your home. This kind of energy system is all about using smart building techniques and materials to make the home more efficient and take advantage of the sun. Stone floors, brick walls, and natural insulation are all part of passive solar energy systems, and most homes built with passive solar energy in mind will have large windows facing the natural sunlight built into the design.
Can solar energy heat your home on a cloudy day?
Don't worry; even if the whether isn't sunny, you can still have a warm home. Active solar energy systems don't use the sunlight that quickly. In other words, energy is stored and used when you need it, so even on a cloud day, you'll be able to heat your home. Of course, most homeowners opt to have a backup generator just in case, but it's rare that you should have to use it. Keep in mind also that just because it doesn't look extremely bright outside doesn't mean that there's no sun at all. If that was the case, it would be as dark as night outside during the day, which is rarely the case. Your solar energy system is still collecting energy, even on cloudy or rainy days.
Which solar heating products are the best?
With more and more consumers turning to solar heating, many manufacturers are beginning to produce the materials you need to convert your home to solar heat. Which products are the best? Start by checking if they have a label from the Solar Rating & Certification Corporation, or SRCC. These products have been tested and certified as good to use in a home. Compare the information you find on these labels, against one another and your personal needs when purchasing solar panels, solar water heaters, and other components to build an active solar heating system.
Do I need a specific professional to help with installation, maintenance, and repair?
Most HVAC professionals know at least a little about solar heating, and so if you have a tried and true professional who's done all the work on your house, start with him or her when you want to convert to solar energy. However, keep in mind that a general HVAC professional may not be able to complete all of your solar-related projects. If you want the best service, it is important to hire a solar heating specialist, even if this type of contractor is slightly more expensive.
Does solar heat make sense for all homes?
You don't have to live in a desert for solar heat to make sense. As long as your home has a roof that can be equipped with solar panels, you should pursue this option. A good solar heating specialist will talk to you about your choices and recommend how to best use solar energy to your advantage. Some homes are more conducive to switching to a solar heating system than others, but all homes can use solar energy in one way or another.
How can I find the best solar heating expert?
Since solar energy is becoming more popular, a number of HVAC professionals are taking steps to learn more about it. The best solar heating experts are those with practical experience, as well as education. Ask a lot of questions before hiring someone. Do they use solar heating in their own home? Have they worked with residential solar heating in your area? Can they give you references of people who have been happy with their work in the past? Will they service your system to maintain and repair it? Hire a professional who is comfortable answering all of your questions about solar heating and other green energy systems.
Posted by: aundidtaSuggested Reading For You
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