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Home Improvements: The Benefits of Going Green

Hello, my name is Eric and this is my home improvement and energy blog. I am very worried about the impact of climate change on our planet so I have recently taken steps to reduce my carbon footprint while carrying out home improvements. Although I am concerned about climate change, I do not know a lot about green energy solutions so I contacted an energy and environmental consultant. The consultant visited my property and recommended I installed solar panels on my roof. Since I did this, I have seen my energy bills fall and I am so happy to be saving money and the environment.

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Home Improvements: The Benefits of Going Green

Considering A Solar Hot Water System? The Answers To 3 Commonly Asked Questions

by Linda Castro

Solar energy systems are a fairly well-known aspect to renewable energy in Australia. If you're considering solar energy as an option, then you may be considering smaller solar hot water systems before you commit to the larger and more system which will provide electricity to your entire home. If you haven't used a solar hot water system before, here are the answers to three common questions that homeowners ask.

1. Why switch to solar?

The first reason for switching to solar is the benefit to the natural environment. Solar hot water systems can significantly reduce your home's total carbon emissions each year. Solar hot water heating will also save you money. It will reduce your electricity or gas bill, which will be even more welcome as prices for both continue their rapid rise.

Solar power can also increase the resale value of your home. Buyers prefer homes that already have established solar panels so that they don't need to go through the setup process themselves.

2. Are there different types of solar hot water systems?

There are two main types of systems; flat panels and evacuated tubes. The heated water from both systems is stored in a tank until you are ready to use it.

Evacuated tube systems capture sunlight better and are more efficient at transferring heat than flat panel systems. They are very durable and are easy and cheap to repair. They can also be used in a wider range of temperatures than flat panel systems, which cannot be used in extremely cold areas.

Flat panel systems are smaller, so take up less roof space. This is a bonus if you'd like to leave plenty of room for more flat panels to be installed for general electricity usage. They are also more effective on overcast days. Flat panel systems work well in a wider range of locations but are also a lot more expensive than evacuated tubes.

3. What costs are involved in the switch?

The cost of the solar system and installation can vary greatly, depending on the size of the system and the difficulty of its installation. However, you can expect to pay several thousand dollars for a high-quality system.These costs can, however, be offset by Government rebates. Also, most solar systems pay for themselves within a few years due to decreased energy costs.

The other main expense is the cost of installation. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest quote, it's worth paying a bit more for an experienced professional who'll do the job quickly, correctly and safely.

Installing a solar system is not a quick process and it is more complex than installing a gas or electric system. A professional, experienced installer will give you an overall quote for the installation and won't charge an hourly rate. This way you won't get any nasty surprises at the end of the installation process.

Solar power is becoming more and more common. In Australia, in particular, it makes sense to switch to solar for electricity and water heating. Solar power is friendly to your wallet as well as to the planet, both excellent reasons to make the switch.

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