With a global recession in progress, many homeowners are looking to cut back on expenses, including utility bills. For many electric is their largest utility bill. Not only can you be eco-friendly with solar panels, but you can significantly lower your energy bills on a regular basis. Although installations can be costly, the overall long term gain actually does come even.

There are homeowners switching to solar energy to cut costs on appliances and equipment that is expensive to use. Pool pumps, pool heaters, and water heaters are now being converted to solar energy options. It is can be very expensive to use electricity on pumps for a swimming pool. Spas and pool heaters in winter are also costly. Even though the panels can cost to get them, they do pay for themselves over time.

As power companies raise their rates, many are left wondering how much higher they can go. The alternative is going with solar panels. You can start off small and continue to buy panels and build up. Many city governments offer a tax break on homes that put in solar panels. Some will require you use an approved solar dealer on their list, others will allow you to show a receipt they were put in.

Many companies are listed that offer these installations. Verify the company prior to getting work done. A proper quote would include them coming out and visually inspecting your home and roof. Due to the weight of the panels and assembly, it is not as easy as putting them on the roof and being done. A proper install will alleviate damage and possible water leakage. The efficiency of the solar collectors vary widely. The highest quality power collectors cost the most.

By getting a contract, you can protect yourself from additional charges. These things can happen. Use a well known company. Many new start up companies will send out advertisements and get deposits for work to not be seen again.

Many of these companies sub contract out the work. If the main company does not pay the sub contractor, they can put a lien on your property even though you already paid the first company. This has been reported many times to homeowners. Be careful in what you setup and with what company you use.

Also consider the weather you experience in your region. Areas with cloudy and wet weather will get less usage and yield from an installation. However, getting even 50% use is possible, and will make a huge impact on your energy needs. Desert areas are very good candidates for installations. In some areas 7+ hours a day of power is generated, some of which can be stored into batteries. Power inverters change the energy into AC power for appliances and other use.

These systems can add value to your home when you go to resale it. Homes with major installations of solar are coveted in many regions. High quality water heating, power generation and sub systems are fast becoming a major selling point. Solar financing is also a possible solution.