8 Tips To Save For Solar

If you're looking to invest in solar energy, but don't have the resources to get yourself off the grid, there are many things you can do to help save a lot of money; which can really add up to help pay for your jump into the solar world.

You probably want to get yourself some solar panels to save on energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint. Saving on your existing bills can is a good, green start.

  1. The easiest tip to save money on energy bills is lighting, replacing the commonly used bulbs in your home can save you a lot of money. Compact fluorescent light bulbs use 75 percent less energy than incandescent bulbs. They are more expensive than regular bulbs, but homeowners really don't need to replace every bulb in the house. Replacing the most commonly used bulbs in the house such as the kitchen and the bathroom can cut costs without wasting money getting a CFL bulb in the attic.
  2. Standby power sends $2 billion down the drain in America alone. With the right gadgets, homeowners can save big bucks on their energy bills. There is a slew of so-called smart power strips that turn off money-draining standby power drained by things such as cell phone chargers, computer power supplies and appliances on standby.
  3. Programmable thermostats can save a lot of money over the course of a year, but only if they're correctly programmed. Setting the thermostat to only turn on for a little bit before heading out to work, and turning down the heat or the air conditioning overnight can be an easy way to save money on energy without any extra investment, or for under $100 if your home doesn’t already have a programmable thermostat.
  4. Stopping leaks from windows cuts drafts drastically, which cuts heat lost and of course energy used to run the heater. First, homeowners should make sure their windows are properly sealed and lock tight like they should. Putting draft-stopping plastic on windows in winter and storm windows year round can cover up a huge heat and cooling sink. Simply closing the shades in the summer can save a lot of money on air conditioning. Sun reflecting or shading windows and window coverings are also available for hotter climates.
  5. For a very long term solution (but a very cheap one) trees can be planted along the house. Energy experts say well placed trees on the east and west side of a house can save up to 25 percent on normal home energy costs. Planting leafy trees instead of pine trees will allow warming light in during the winter. Sun blocking vines on the side of the house provide shade as well, and don't take as long as trees to grow.
  6. Door drafts are another easy heat sink to fix. The cheap fix is a thick towel at the bottom of the door. Under a drafty door to an unheated porch, an old towel can save a lot of money on electricity. For about $15 homeowners can get door draft stoppers that keep a good seal, but still allow normal use of the door.
  7. Insulation is key to saving energy, the biggest heat sink in most houses is the roof. Since heat rises, it flows directly out of any ceiling draft. And since most attics aren't finished, insulation isn't as good as the rest of the house. Repairing holes in the roof and maintaining good insulation will save money on electric bills and gas bills.
  8. Good appliances will cost a bit more money, but will save up in the long run. If you can't get over the hump to investing in solar. Good Energy Star rated appliances will save on water, electricity and gas.

One or all of these tips will have you saving money on energy bills and put you a little closer to that solar-powered house down the road.

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