More Than A Number

When it comes to green construction, Los Angeles is leading the trend. Thanks to energy costs that continue to skyrocket, solar power installations are becoming more popular. In Southern California, home builders are everywhere, and nearly all of them say they can install solar panels on your home.

But do you really need solar power panels? Are they right for your home?

Solar power panels are designed to reduce your energy bills. You use them to harness the power of the sun, and use it to generate energy for your home. Bear in mind, though, that solar power panels cannot power your entire home. They are designed to cut down your energy use during peak times, like in the middle of the summer or winter.

Solar power panels can heat water, whether you use them by themselves, or in conjunction with a traditional water heater. Whether you need hot water for a shower, or you want to keep your pool warm in the winter, these panels can give you the comfort you need, without paying high energy costs.

Your panels can also be used to generate electricity. Most of the time, 1 square foot of panels will generate 1 kilowatt of electricity. Anything that you want the panels to power, like various appliances or your air conditioner, can be connected directly to the solar power wiring system.

But when it comes to solar power installations, you have to do your homework. In Southern California, home builders have to give each house careful thought before putting up panels. That’s why it is best to choose a contractor that is certified in green construction.

So, why is there so much planning involved in solar power installations?

The panels can go in a variety of places – they can be mounted on the roof, on the ground, or on new or existing trellises. Your builder will have to figure out which place is best for you. Your solar power panels need to be installed with aesthetics in mind, and, of course, in a place that gives them maximum sun exposure. In fact, your solar panels can even be mounted on tracking devices, so that they can follow the sun as it moves through the sky.