Common Residential/Home Solar Power Uses & Ideas:

Using solar power in a home is becoming everyday a more attractive and viable alternative for homeowners in the USA. And with recent advances in solar panel (PV) technology, coupled with generous government incentives being offered to go solar, its it has also become an increasingly cost effective alternative to using traditional energy sources to power a home.

There are a number of practical and common ways and ideas of how solar power can be effectively utilized in an average household. Some common residential solar applications or uses would include:

Solar Electricity: Solar panel systems (or photovoltaic systems) whether installed on a roof or ground mounted can today provide a substantial (in some cases all) portion of a home's electrical power needs- including helping to heat a home if electric is used. In some cases homeowners through a process called net metering are even able to produce enough excess electricity that they can sell it back to their local utility.

Solar Hot Water Heating: Solar (or thermal) hot water systems today are a very cost effective alternative to conventional water heaters, which as an appliance can account for up to 25% or more of a home's energy consumption. Studies have show that a new solar water heater system provides the potential for homeowners to save up to 80% or more of a typical home's utility bills vs. the costs of using a standard electric water heating.  A solar hot water system will also ultimately add value to your home.

Solar Pool and Spa Heating: Solar pool heating is currently the most commonly used  residential solar power application. It is also one of the most reliable, practical, and cost effective uses for solar power in a home and has a relative short pay back period.

Outdoor Solar Lights: Solar lighting systems and solar lights are becoming an increasingly popular way to light outdoor areas of a residential home or property. Whether they are used for strictly decoration purposes or for added security, solar lights are a very affordable, maintenance free, and easy way to light any outdoor spaces around a home.

Solar Generators: Solar power generators can be utilized to help supplement a households energy needs, particularly in times of emergency.   And because most solar power generators are mobile, easy to set up, and don't require fuel, they can also be used to power a vacation home, boat,  or even RV parked at a remote campsite.