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If you have been looking for a way to reduce your carbon footprint and decrease your dependency on society as a whole, then you have undoubtedly thought about installing home solar panels in Seattle or your area. While there is a multitude of benefits to doing so, there are also a few drawbacks for many homeowners. Is Solar Energy Right for You? Experts agree that solar energy is good for society as a whole, as it implements green technology and is a totally renewable resources. All of these things are amazing, but that doesn't necessarily mean that converting to solar energy is right for every homeowner. If you are considering a solar panel installation but want more information, then check out this list of the pros and cons of home solar panels to determine if solar energy is right for you: - Solar energy is completely renewable: Many resources that society's infrastructure uses to power and heat homes utilize fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are by no means a renewable resource, and experts agree that it is only a matter of time before these materials are depleted entirely. For many people this will mean an complete change in their lifestyle. However, this is not necessarily so for those with solar energy power systems. Solar energy is powered by the sun, so as long as the sun keeps shining, you will have power through your solar panels.
- Solar energy is not a 24/7 resource: Traditionally, power from solar panels can only be harnessed during hours of sunshine. This means that you will have access to your power at varying levels as long as the sun is in the sky. Night and winter seasons will have a lowered or nonexistent power level. If you choose, however, your solar panels can be connected to your town's power grid, and the solar energy from your cells can be stored offsite, where you can have access to them during times of darkness. If something were to happen to the power grid, however, you would only have access to electricity during hours of sunlight.
- Solar energy is free: Once you have paid for the initial cost of infrastructure and installation, use of solar power is entirely free! This means that your utility bills will be significantly lowered, if not nonexistent.
- Solar energy infrastructure is expensive: Not all homeowners have the money to invest in a solar system. While the cost varies greatly from location to location, you can expect to spend a minimum of $20,000 on a solar energy system for your home. Luckily, there are many government incentives such as low interest rate financing options for those who wish to make the investment. Also, keep in mind that your solar energy system should pay itself off about 5 years after installation.
- Solar panels can increase the value of your home: Potential home buyers love the idea of being energy independent and savings hundreds each month in utility costs. For this reason you can expect a high return on your solar energy investment when it comes time to sell your home.
- Solar panels require little maintenance: While it is recommended that you have your solar panels inspected for damage and cleaned around once every year, the system is virtually maintenance free, and will require no more attention than the HVAC system in your home.
- The government wants you to invest in solar energy: The government wants you to invest in solar energy for a variety of reasons, and they are willing to pay you to do so! In addition to low interest rates for solar system loans, you can expect tax credits and incentives from your utility company when you invest in home solar panels in Seattle or your area.
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