Friday, December 9, 2011

Saving Money on Energy Star Appliances

Saving money today is a common topic. We hear about ‘going green’ using energy wisely, and it goes on and on and is even in politics. Many simply don’t have the time, money, or inclination to junk their current appliances just to buy Energy Star appliances. How is that going to save money? By spending more? It just doesn’t make sense, and not until it hits them in their pocket books will they sit up and take notice.

It is hitting all of us in our pocket books, and we need to strive to get our families educated in saving energy on the appliances we have. But when the appliances need to be replaced we should definitely strive to replace them with the Energy Star promise.

Before we trade our appliances in there are ways to save money on our utilities, and the most prominent one is to use them less. That’s not always possible, but we should at least try. Things like washing only full loads of dishes or clothing can help. Washing your clothing in cold water also saves on hot water that is expensive. Not heating or cooling rooms that are rarely used is another way to save including setting your thermostat at couple of degrees below the comfortable temperature. Lower in winter, and higher in summer.

In the past when we got cold we put on a sweater, but today keeping the temperature set higher or lower is so easy to do that we don’t think about it. We like our creature comfort no matter the cost.

So how much can we expect to save by purchasing Energy Star Appliances? Let’s take a look at the figures. Energy Star washing machines can save between 18-25 gallons of water per load. The normal washer uses approximately 40 gallons to wash just one load. Energy

Star dishwashers save about 3 gallons, a 25% savings every time you use them. The average dishwasher uses approximately 12 gallons of hot water.

Energy Star heaters and air conditioners save approximately 20% and possibly more depending on the extreme weather. It is also estimated that your heater and air conditioner will cost approximately 40% of your entire energy bill.

So it simply makes sense to get your energy costs down one way or another.  Too often we make no conscious effort to control the energy we use, and maybe we all need to at least be aware of the things that will save us money. Money we can use on more important things that are necessary in life. 

SolarGem specializes in Orange County solar power, Riverside solar power, San Bernardino solar power, Los Angeles solar power, Orange County solar panels, Riverside solar panels, San Bernardino solar panels, and Los Angeles solar panels.

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Solar Panels on a Cloudy

Will solar panels still collect energy on a cloudy day? Does the sun still shine on a cloudy day? Of course it does, however the cloudier the day, the less energy your solar panel will collect. There are those who claim that when there are a few clouds that allow the sun to peak through, the solar panels actually collect more energy.

Why is that, you ask? They say the panels collect the direct sunlight when it peaks through the clouds, but they also collect their power from the sun’s reflection on the clouds. Areas across the United States that work best are the ones where they get the most sunlight throughout the year.

What types of solar panels are there? Actually two: the grid-tied system that will allow you to use the current and the unused power goes into the utility grid; Independent system meaning ‘off the grid’ provides almost all of your electricity, these use batteries to store the power. The second type, sometimes have generators that are used as backup in an emergency.

Who would best benefit from solar panels? Those where electricity is at its peak and costs over $125 per month. Also those in rural areas where electricity is very expensive and may not even be available.

Many states offer incentive programs and if the programs are still in effect after all the recent problems, they claim they will be there through the year of 2016, but check them out as you consider solar panels.

How long will they last? Many are under warranties for twenty years, and do-it-yourselfers solar panels should last as long if they are installed correctly.

How much do they cost? Depends of course on the size of your panels. Some claim they can be paid for in two to three years. Others claim it takes around seventeen years to pay them off.

Who will benefit the most? Where electricity is very expensive (and they’re going up every month). Where the sun shines year round and the southwest gets the most. Those who plan to sell their home in a couple of years because the panels will raise their home’s value.

Aren’t they ugly? You should install them where you get the most sunshine on your property, even on a backyard shed.

Where can you find more information? To have your questions answered, go online, there are numerous web sites that will answer most questions. And there are many questions, and they all need answers, so find those answers as you do your own research.

SolarGem specializes in Orange County solar power, Riverside solar power, San Bernardino solar power, Los Angeles solar power, Orange County solar panels, Riverside solar panels, San Bernardino solar panels, and Los Angeles solar panels.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Window Solar Screens That Save

The only thing between you and the blast of cold air in the winter or the heat of the summer sun are your windows. Unless you have the new style windows that have double panes with sun shields between the glass, you will have to rely totally on the window coverings you install. But wait; there are a couple of options here that will save you between 10% and 20% and possibly more on your heating and cooling bills. At the same time you will add style with these energy efficient additions, and they will also increase the value of your home.

Plywood interior shutters from Sunburst Shutters are equipped to block UV rays and solar heat without cracking or warping. The solid shutters work to reduce heat transfer and the manufacturer claims that they are 70% more energy-efficient than your traditional wood shutters. The synthetic Polywood material will not fade, warp, or crack in the extreme heat. With exterior wood shutters add weather protection and also give you another layer of security.

Then the shades with the honeycomb within a honeycomb provide two more insulating air pockets. The manufacturer, Hunter Douglas claims the shades are far more efficient when you compare them with cellular shades. They can be customized and have a variety of features, fabric textures, and colors.

Another style of cellular shades has small air pockets between the layers of fabrics and traps air inside and reduces heat or cold flow. Insulated draperies offer another degree of efficiency depending on the fabric used. There are several types and fabric with colors that match or contrast with your color scheme. Liners are also available for the draperies.

Outside awnings also add to the solar heat gain in the summer as much as 77% especially those installed on west facing windows. The best types are custom made with tightly woven fabrics. The lighter colors work best to detract the sun’s glare.

Shades that open from the top of the window give you privacy and protection while allowing natural light to enter, and work well in bathrooms. Light blocking and cordless blinds are favored in children’s rooms where cords could be a safety issue.

There are many different styles, colors, and fabrics to choose from. If you want window coverings that offer a degree of energy efficiency plus privacy check out the online companies that offer both. It might be wise to install more than one type to give you more protection yet.

SolarGem specializes in Orange County solar power, Riverside solar power, San Bernardino solar power, Los Angeles solar power, Orange County solar panels, Riverside solar panels, San Bernardino solar panels, and Los Angeles solar panels.

orange county solar power, riverside solar power, san bernardino solar power, los angeles solar power, orange county solar, riverside solar, san bernardino solar, los angeles solar, orange county solar panels, riverside solar panels, solar panels san bernardino, los angeles solar panels, los angeles solar energy, orange county solar energy, orange county solar companies, los angeles solar companies, solar companies in los angeles, riverside solar companies, san bernardino solar companies, solar companies in orange county, solar companies in riverside, solar companies in san bernardino, irvine solar, anaheim solar, cypress solar, brea solar

Friday, September 30, 2011

Orange County Solar Panels

Solar Panels almost sound futuristic, but Solar Panels are here to stay. They convert the power of the sun into electricity for us to use and control in our own homes or business. They are expensive, and that is their biggest problem, but in some instances the government offers rebates when we convert to power generated by the sun.

No matter the cost some prefer to be self-sufficient and free from government control over their daily lives. One of the advantages of having Solar Panels will be you will not only have all the power you want, but in some instances you may be able to sell your power back to the electric company. Don’t ask how they do that, it takes smarter people than me to know the ins and outs of Orange County solar power. Does it mean that the utility companies will be sending me a check instead of a bill? Doubtful, they will only give you a credit to your account, but that is still better than a bill.


Solar Panels sound great, and many companies now produce the panels for sale to the general public. Evidently they haven’t figured out how to use those same panels to make ours and when they do that, they will be more efficient. But for now it will take years for our Solar Panels to pay for themselves when you consider the cost from beginning to end.

Nevertheless, we would still be in control of our power. Think of that, no more black outs, no power outages when our neighborhood goes dark. When the utility company turns off the power to save energy we can laugh at them because that is when they will be buying power from our unit.

How long should the panels last and work to produce our electricity? Some are under warranty for twenty-five years. In other words, they will last a long time heating the water in your swimming pool, keeping our house lower than seventy degrees in the summer, and heating it so we never have to worry about our bill going up.


With the new energy efficient electric cars, will our solar panels charge those so we will no longer need to charge them on the same utility bill as our home? That would be a good question for the sellers to answer, but if we can charge the cars in our garage at night, then it only stands to reason that our panels would charge them as well. If that is the case, the Solar Panels will pay for themselves much sooner than promised before.

SolarGem specializes in Orange County solar power, Riverside solar power, San Bernardino solar power, Los Angeles solar power, Orange County solar panels, Riverside solar panels, San Bernardino solar panels, and Los Angeles solar panels.

orange county solar power, riverside solar power, san bernardino solar power, los angeles solar power, orange county solar, riverside solar, san bernardino solar, los angeles solar, orange county solar panels, riverside solar panels, solar panels san bernardino, los angeles solar panels, los angeles solar energy, orange county solar energy, orange county solar companies, los angeles solar companies, solar companies in los angeles, riverside solar companies, san bernardino solar companies, solar companies in orange county, solar companies in riverside, solar companies in san bernardino, irvine solar, anaheim solar, cypress solar, brea solar

Monday, September 26, 2011

Solar Energy In The Winter

With summer now firmly behind us and early fall right in front of us, there is a tendency for homeowners to begin thinking about rising electrical costs due to the constant use of heaters as the weather steadily cools.
Electric heaters, much like air conditioners, consume a great deal of energy when used. Even a moderately warm winter and fall will have some very cold moments that will provoke homeowners into utilizing their heaters while sleeping and while work so that their homes are warm when they arrive in the afternoon and evening. Even periodic use of a heater in such a manner tends to run up an electric bill and run them up quickly.
When faced with the rapidly rising costs of electrical energy for their homes, many homeowners begin to seriously consider having a solar power system installed within their home. Doing so will allow them to either reduce their electrical costs considerably or eliminate them altogether. In either scenario a homeowner can utilize a heater in even the coldest winters for extended periods of time without ever having to worry about a surprisingly large bill at the end of the month.

Should you have any questions about energy efficiency or about solar power systems please be sure to contact us that we may help.

SolarGem specializes in:

Orange County Solar - San Bernardino Solar - Riverside Solar - Los Angeles Solar - Orange County Solar Power - Riverside Solar Power - San Bernardino Solar Power - Los Angeles Solar Power - Orange Solar - Los Angeles Solar Panels - Orange County Solar Panels - Riverside Solar Panels - Solar Panels San Bernardino

Friday, September 23, 2011

Solar Power: Adding Value To Your Home

Homeowners install solar power systems in their homes primarily to reduce or eliminate the costs associated with using electricity in their home. Those homeowners who can afford to do so often have a top-of-the-line power system installed in their home that completely takes them "off the grid" and eliminates their electricity bill altogether. However even individuals operating on a smaller budget can have a solar power system installed that will reduce their electric bill by a large percentage.
What you don't hear a lot about is the appreciation value that a solar power system gives to any home to which it's installed in. Homes with solar power systems carry considerably more value than do homes without. What this essentially means is that any homeowner selling a home with a solar power system in it will likely sell the home for much more than someone would selling the exact same home without a solar power system in. If you're on the fence about solar power for you home consider the added financial value a solar power system carries with it.

If you're looking to both reduce the cost of energy consumption and add value to your home consider installing a solar power system. We can assist you with that and we urge you to contact us should you have any questions about the systems.

SolarGem specializes in:

Orange County Solar - San Bernardino Solar - Riverside Solar - Los Angeles Solar - Orange County Solar Power - Riverside Solar Power - San Bernardino Solar Power - Los Angeles Solar Power - Orange Solar - Los Angeles Solar Panels - Orange County Solar Panels - Riverside Solar Panels - Solar Panels San Bernardino

Thursday, September 22, 2011

Space Based Solar Power

The technology surrounding solar power has grown considerably in the last couple of decades and shows no signs of slowing down or becoming stagnant. Scientists are working around-the-clock and discovering new ways with which to capture and convert the suns energy into usable power.
One of the hypothetical technologies being seriously looked at by solar scientists is space-based solar power. Space based solar power or "SPS" aims to capture solar energy in space utilizing panels on satellites. This energy would then be transferred down to earth in a usable form of household energy. This technology holds a lot of hope for a huge leap in solar power as the suns energy is unaffected by seasons, weather, or day and night when it's captured and converted out in space.
In the coming years and decades we expect there to be big breakthroughs were SPS is concerned. As this technology moves from hypothesis to workable theory and application it will only become even more promising and efficient.

Should you have any questions about space based solar power or about solar power systems in general please be sure to contact us so that we may be of assistance!

SolarGem specializes in:

Orange County Solar - San Bernardino Solar - Riverside Solar - Los Angeles Solar - Orange County Solar Power - Riverside Solar Power - San Bernardino Solar Power - Los Angeles Solar Power - Orange Solar - Los Angeles Solar Panels - Orange County Solar Panels - Riverside Solar Panels - Solar Panels San Bernardino

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Exterior Solar Power Systems

When people think of solar power they most often think of utilizing it inside of a home or business. Powering television sets, stereo equipment, computer and of course lights, solar power is generally thought of as an internal source of alternative energy. To think so myopically about solar power however is folly as solar power is used in a number of different ways both inside and outside of homes and/or businesses.

If you were to visit 10 homes that utilize solar power it is likely you would find at least a few that put captured energy to use outdoors. Not all solar power systems are designed to power both the interior and exterior of a home or business but those that do save homeowners and business owners even more money than those that don't. Solar power applied to lighting fixtures and signs outside can keep those things running all night, every night without costing an individual much money if any at all.

Should you have questions about exterior solar power systems please be sure to contact us and we'll be happy that answer any you have.

SolarGem specializes in:

Orange County Solar - San Bernardino Solar - Riverside Solar - Los Angeles Solar - Orange County Solar Power - Riverside Solar Power - San Bernardino Solar Power - Los Angeles Solar Power - Orange Solar - Los Angeles Solar Panels - Orange County Solar Panels - Riverside Solar Panels - Solar Panels San Bernardino

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Tips For Using Electricity Efficiently

While utilizing solar power is the most efficient way to reduce energy costs and save money on electricity, there many other ways to use energy efficiently and reduce electricity usage in cases where a family or individual may not be able to afford a solar power system.

The vast majority of electrical use in a home comes from air-conditioning and heater use. Both of these can quickly run up an electric bill because families normally run them for long periods of time and sometimes leave them on while they're away at work and school. In actuality however this is a complete waste of energy and money. While it's true that a heater or AC unit will need to be on in order to make a home comfortable, individuals can do things like set timers on their heaters and AC's and can also make sure window shutters, blinds, and draperies are closed over windows during the times that they are not home. Doing so will help keep heat out of the home during the summer and help trap heat inside the home during the winter. This means that they'll need to run their heater or air conditioning far less than they would had they not made sure their windows were recovered properly.

By running air-conditioning and heating only when people are in a home and by keeping windows covered and closed properly homeowners can reduce the cost of energy consumption and their electric bill by noticeable figures right away. Dressing for the season, even while in the home, will also save homeowners money on their energy bill. They can also utilize blankets and fans as alternatives to prolonged heater and air conditioning use.

Should you have any questions about solar power systems or about how to reduce energy consumption and your electric bill please do not hesitate to contact us so that we may be of assistance!

SolarGem specializes in:

Orange County Solar - San Bernardino Solar - Riverside Solar - Los Angeles Solar - Orange County Solar Power - Riverside Solar Power - San Bernardino Solar Power - Los Angeles Solar Power - Orange Solar - Los Angeles Solar Panels - Orange County Solar Panels - Riverside Solar Panels - Solar Panels San Bernardino

Monday, September 12, 2011

Solar Power: Why And How Long

Occasionally some of our clients and prospective clients ask us both why we are able to utilize solar power and how long will solar power be a viable energy source. There are relatively simple answers that explain quite a bit and give customers who might otherwise remain apprehensive about purchasing a solar power system the go-ahead and peace of mind they need in order to purchase one.
As far as why we're able to utilize solar power goes, the sun being a star produces a tremendous amount of energy every second of every day. In fact just a small amount of energy from our closest star could power the entire planet for a long period of time that is if it could be harnessed to that great degree. Modern solar power focuses on capturing sunlight that beats down directly on the panels and converts it to usable electricity or energy for single home or building. Over the course of the 20th century and the last decade solar power technologies have advanced incredibly enabling families to both reduce electricity costs and in some cases eliminate their electric bill altogether.

So how long will human beings be able to utilize solar power? The answer is essentially a long as humans continue to exist. Undoubtedly the technology will continue to grow by leaps and bounds in the coming years and decades but solar energy is dependent on essentially one thing above all others, the sun. So long as the sun shines and continues to fuse heavier and heavier elements there will be energy available for capture and conversion. With a time frame of at least billions of years, were not going to lose the ability to utilize solar energy anytime soon.

Should you have any questions about solar energy are solar power systems for your home or for your business please do not hesitate to contact us and we will be happy to answer them all!

SolarGem specializes in:

Orange County Solar - San Bernardino Solar - Riverside Solar - Los Angeles Solar - Orange County Solar Power - Riverside Solar Power - San Bernardino Solar Power - Los Angeles Solar Power - Orange Solar - Los Angeles Solar Panels - Orange County Solar Panels - Riverside Solar Panels - Solar Panels San Bernardino

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Modern Solar Power's Beginnings

We've previously spent considerable time talking about the history of solar power and how even prehistoric man utilized solar power on a daily basis. While we haven't talked much about however is how "modern solar power" first came into existence. The topic is an interesting one and goes back quite a ways.

Modern solar power has its beginnings firmly rooted in 1839 when French physicist Alexandre-Edmond Becquerel (right) first observed the photovoltaic effect via an electrode placed in a conductive solution that was exposed to light. Though it would be several more decades before Willoughby Smith, an electrical engineer, would discover that selenium showed photoconductivity which helped move technology forward considerably, Becquerel discovery is solely responsible for modern solar power.

The technology surrounding solar power systems continued to grow rapidly over the course of both the 19th and 20th centuries. Now in the new millennium solar power has seen even greater leaps and bounds as far as efficiency and cost are concerned. Should you have any questions regarding solar power please do not hesitate to contact us so that we may be of assistance!

SolarGem specializes in:

Orange County Solar - San Bernardino Solar - Riverside Solar - Los Angeles Solar - Orange County Solar Power - Riverside Solar Power - San Bernardino Solar Power - Los Angeles Solar Power - Orange Solar - Los Angeles Solar Panels - Orange County Solar Panels - Riverside Solar Panels - Solar Panels San Bernardino

Friday, September 9, 2011

Solar Power At Night

We often feild a large number of questions from prospective clients who want to know a bit more about solar power before they ever commit to purchasing a solar power system. To of the most commonly asked questions are "how does solar power work at night?" and "can I utilize my solar power at night?".

Obviously the sun doesn't shine 24 hours a day and even when it does there are days where it's extremely overcast or the sky is covered in stormclouds. Some of the more inexpensive and hastily put together solar power systems have trouble harnessing, converting, and storing energy during these times. More modern and more efficient solar power systems however apply new technologies that allow it to store sunlight so that it can be used when it is needed most, during any of the aforementioned times.

Some solar power systems are capable of storing the sun's energy by utilizing batteries, though those tend to be bulky and expensive, while others compress air to store the energy and uncompress it when it is needed. The problem with the latter however is that only about 80% of the solar power compressed is recovered when it is uncompressed. The more efficient solar power systems these days however store the suns energy as heat rather than converted electricity or some form of compressed energy. Storing heat is far more efficient and easy than many other methods as well. This can be done by utilizing a salt storage equipped solar power unit.

If you have any questions regarding how solar power works at night or how a system you might be interested in can store energy for those times please be sure to contact us so that we may be of assistance!

SolarGem specailizes in:

Orange County Solar - San Bernardino Solar - Riverside Solar - Los Angeles Solar - Orange County Solar Power - Riverside Solar Power - San Bernardino Solar Power - Los Angeles Solar Power - Orange Solar - Los Angeles Solar Panels - Orange County Solar Panels - Riverside Solar Panels - Solar Panels San Bernardino

Friday, August 26, 2011

Solar Power Is Not A New Thing

When you speak to people about solar power they are usually under the impression that it is both very expensive and a more modern technology. In truth both of these assessments are inaccurate. Solar power these days is inexpensive and pays for itself rather quickly. It would also be inaccurate to call solar power a modern invention or new technology.

For as long as life has resided on this planet, many different forms of life have utilized the sun in order to sustain life. Life forms such as plants, even those that are now extinct, relied on solar power for photosynthesis. This is the process by which plants create their own food and grow. More complex life forms, or specifically animal life has been dependent on solar power for their primary heat source since it first appeared.

It is only in recent decades that we have begun harnessing passive solar energy and turning it into usable electricity and energy for our homes and businesses. However, to say that even this type of solar power is a recent technological breakthrough would be incorrect. Solar power has been harnessed and used in homes, businesses, and even on vehicles for many decades. Since the inception of modern solar power systems however the technology has grown to be incredibly efficient and affordable.

Should you have any questions about solar power please do not hesitate to contact us!


SolarGem specializes in:


Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Solar Powered Appliances & Computers

It seems that these days everyone is in a rush to make their homes and their lives as "green" as possible. There are a lot of ways to go about living a greener life and making your home more eco-friendly. One of the most obvious ways to do this is to incorporate solar power into your life and into your home. What many people do not realize however is that things there are now things like appliances and even computers that run on solar power.

These appliances run entirely on solar energy and are completely independent from a structure's electrical system. In many cases these solar powered computers are just as powerful and efficient as the more traditional powered ones are. Many individuals will remember and may still own a solar powered watch or calculator. Modern computers that utilize solar power do so in a manner similar to those old fashion watches and calculators though they do it on a greater scale and much more efficiently.

In the coming years individuals can expect to see solar power applied to a number of other appliances around the home and even things in office that they once thought impossible. They can also expect to see the solar power that exists now on appliances like computers to grow, become even more efficient, and allow them to operate certain aspects of their home on solar power even if they can't afford an entire solar power system.

Please be sure to contact us should you have any questions regarding solar power or solar powered appliances!

SolarGem specializes in:

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Solar Powered Vehicles

As solar power for homes continues to become more affordable and more popular, there are a great number of people who've begun applying solar power to things other than homes or buildings. For some individuals this means a completely new approach while others simply continue to build on and improve upon things that have been running on solar power for decades.

One of these things is the solar powered vehicle. When they were first introduced it and the public was first made aware of their existence, solar powered vehicles were not very efficient nor powerful. These days however with the improvement in solar technologies and the ability to both harness more energy and use it more effectively, solar powered vehicles are growing in both power and efficiency. The one drawback that scientists still face today is a limited area in which a solar powered vehicle can collect sunlight. On a car for example this will be on the top of the car and perhaps on one side or the other but these energy collection limitations are still a major roadblock for solar power experts.

Though there are hybrid cars available for purchase now the majority of these don't actually run on solar power but utilize electricity when they're not using traditional gasoline. In the future consumers can expect to see an explosion of solar powered vehicles that both collect and utilize captured sunlight efficiently.

Should you have any questions about solar power please be sure to contact us and that we may be of assistance!

SolarGem specializes in:

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

The Adoption Of Solar Power

Solar power is rapidly changing the way humans harness and utilize energy on a daily basis. We've mentioned in previous blogs that in years and decades past solar power was once very expensive and far less effective than it is these days. We believe that in the future solar power will grow in popularity, become even more affordable, and grow to be so effective that human beings will never need what we think of as traditional electricity ever again.

We believe this in part because solar power has reached a level of effectiveness that helps individuals, businesses, and families reduced energy consumption costs greatly. We also believe this to be true because the sun itself emits enough energy in 12 hours to equal 12.2 trillion watt hours per square mile. With so much free energy coming from the sky and from our closest star more and more people are going to be looking to take advantage of that. We also believe that as the world continues to move in a "greener" direction more businesses and professional structures will have things like Riverside solar panels installed in order to not only consume less energy but to be more eco-friendly as well.

The sun is amazing source of free and eco-friendly energy. Nuclear fusion happening inside the sun right now will continue to produce power for us to consume for billions of years. We suspect that in the coming decades not only will solar power continue to grow rapidly in popularity but the ability to capture the sun's energy and convert it to usable electricity will grow and change in a manner that allows it to be used on a larger scale and even more effectively than it already is.

Should you have any questions regarding Riverside solar panels or anything related to solar power systems please be sure to contact us so that we may be of assistance!

Monday, August 8, 2011

Solar Energy

Without the sun, life on earth would cease to exist. Even the ancient civilizations knew this fact, and it appears that we are just finding that out here in America. The an-cients used what we now call passive solar energy. In other words they used the sun to light their homes in the daytime, and they normally slept when the earth turned away from the sun so it could light up the other side.

Now that we have electricity we can stay up and study all night long. Or watch television, or do whatever we desire because we are not limited. Some say that is what is wrong with our country; we don’t take time to rest like we should. But that’s another subject.

Our first consideration when we build our homes should be what direction they face. Are the windows placed where we can get the best results whether in winter or summer? The windows themselves are more efficient today with the double paned tinted glass. If your windows face west you get the direct sun from just past noon until dusk. Some prefer for the windows to face south, but they get the direct sun in the summer too.

Some of our options are to plant trees, but they take years to grow large enough to shade the house. Or we install barriers to hide the sun from our homes. We build brick around our homes, install tile floors, install ceiling fans, and we insulate the walls to keep the heat in or the cold out.

What are the options when you look at solar power? For one thing, it’s always there. For the second and third options, you won’t have high utility bills, and your source for power will be right there next to your home. The fourth option, solar panels will in-crease the value of your home.

You’ll still want some of those things around your home like trees and shrubs, and skylights, blinds on your windows, those things they consider passive, they add to the value of home too. Environmental issues are on the mind of most Americans, and many are promoting green ideas for your home. Whether new homes or improving older homes to make them more efficient,

Solar energy is but one way, and possibly the most effective and efficient way for you to have that power where you can control it. There may be government subsidies when you change your home to solar, just one more option.

SolarGem specializes in Orange County solar power, Riverside solar power, San Bernardino solar power, Los Angeles solar power, Orange County solar panels, Riverside solar panels, San Bernardino solar panels, and Los Angeles solar panels.

Solar Power

Surprise! Surprise! Solar power comes from the sun. We are so accustomed to just flipping a switch to turn on a light, or power other electrical appliances that we rarely consider where the power is coming from. That is until we get the utility bill. Wouldn’t you like to be free of the utility companies?

Then when a car hits a utility pole or rain and high winds knock out your power and everyone else in your neighborhood, you will be asking the question is there an-other way.

There are two types of solar power. Passive power is when you use every means possible to create the natural power for your homes. For instance when you use sun-light to dry your clothes, and open windows to cool and light your house in the daytime, and close them at night for warmth, privacy and protection. They didn’t have electric lights, or even security. They protected themselves using bows and arrows, knives, swords and guns. People used passive power for thousands of years before active power was invented. There were no electric lights; they used candles or gas lamps. They spent their entire lives protecting and caring for their families, and searching for or growing their food. They didn’t know any other way to survive, so they used the sun to their advantage.

Today homes using active power use other sources for electricity. Because of that we have free time to do other things besides what our ancestors had to do to sur-vive.

Solar power uses the sun as well, and they also use pumps, blowers, and special boxes to deliver electricity to your home. The boxes are situated on the outside and are made of a dark metal that attracts the sun. The water or air that is carried in the pipes and ductwork is heated by this box that captures the sunlight. The heated air and water is then carried into your home.

Today everyone is talking about renewable resources. They tell us we are run-ning out of resources you know like oil and coal. They tell us we need to find other means to keep us in the lifestyle that we desire. Renewable resources consist of solar, wind, biomass, hydrogen, geothermal and hydropower.

Most of those resources need your utility companies. Solar Panels release you from those companies, and give you the electrical power to have your own source right on your own property. Just think, you can heat your own water, use all the electricity you want or need, and keep those appliances running. What could be better than that?



SolarGem specializes in Orange County solar power, Riverside solar power, San Bernardino solar power, Los Angeles solar power, Orange County solar panels, Riverside solar panels, San Bernardino solar panels, and Los Angeles solar panels.

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Orange County Solar Power: Solar Power Converting Sunlight To Electricity

If you ask any layperson how solar power works the most common answer you will receive is, "solar power is the conversion of sunlight into electricity". In the most simplest of terms that is indeed true however the process itself is much more complicated and involved.

The conversion of sunlight into electricity happens in one of two ways when you're dealing with solar power. The first method involves photovoltaics and the second involves concentrated solar power. In concentrated power systems lenses and mirrors focus the large area of sunlight into a small beam and convert it into electricity whereas in photovoltaics light is converted into electricity using the photoelectric effect which is a process by which electrons are emitted from matter and then converted into usable energy.

In addition to the act of converting sunlight into electricity for homes or businesses there is also the issue of storing that electricity for use during nights and for times in which traditional power is unavailable such as a black or brown out. Storage methods vary from solar power system to system and the amount of allowed stored energy is usually dependent on the price of the unit a homeowner or business owner is interested in. In all systems however converted electricity is stored using molten salts, rechargeable batteries, or some type of hydrostorage unit. All of these technologies are capable of storing electricity for fair amount of time. This enables homeowners to make the most of their solar power systems at night and during those times where homeowners with traditional electrical needs don't have access to them.

While the process of converting sunlight to usable electricity and storing unused electricity may seem overly complicated to any individual who is uneducated in such things, any consumers wanting to know more can utilize the Internet which will yield plenty of information or they can elect to contact a solar power professional should they have questions that nessesitate answers.

SolarGem specializes in Riverside solar, San Bernardino solar, Orange County solar and Los Angeles solar.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Riverside Solar Energy Systems And Retirement

Retirement is a period in an individual's life where they begin to enjoy the fruits of their long years of laboring but it's also a time of careful planning and being frugal with a limited income that an individual has during those years. Many retirees prior to actually retiring begin planning for their post-workforce life by looking at ways to cut costs and keep bills and spending at a reasonable and livable minimum.

One of the most expensive bills in anyone's life is their electric bill. Retirees often look at this bill first when they begin to plan for retirement and look for ways to cut costs. One way they do this is by investing in a solar energy system. Solar energy systems can help individuals on the verge of retiring freeze their energy costs and even negate them completely should they elect to purchase one of the more comprehensive solar systems out there. In fact retirees can avoid the 6.7% average electric inflation rate by investing in some type of solar energy system.

The majority of individuals on the cusp of retirement generally have put some of their finances aside for investments and a solar energy system is one of the best investments such an individual can make. While the initial setup costs involve large sums of money, solar power systems pay for themselves in a relatively short period of time. On average retirees who invest in a solar energy system will save $185 per month on their electricity costs. This allows individuals to put that saved money to work somewhere else.

Regardless of the type of solar power system a retiree may purchase, all of them will help significantly reduce electricity costs which in turn helps persons on a fixed budget do much more with their money. Although many homeowners might become excited at the prospect of both shopping for and purchasing a solar energy system, is to their benefit to spend considerable time researching that only individual systems but the pros and cons of each as well as the initial costs and overall savings as well. It's also vital for homeowners to speak with not one but several professionals in the solar power industry. This can include manufacturers, vendors, and even installation and repair experts. Getting information from multiple sources as well as advice on how to proceed in which systems are best will allow homeowners to make the very best decision possible for both themselves and their home. Many individuals planning to retire or has just retired there is a lot of room for financial missteps.

SolarGem specializes in Riverside solar, San Bernardino solar, Orange County solar and Los Angeles solar.

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Orange County Solar Power Advantages

With the rising costs of electricity and the multitude of new electronics being placed in homes and businesses many individuals have begun looking for ways to cut back on their electric bill. This is a problem however as modern electronics such as computers, TVs, video game systems, computer monitors, etc. all consume a great deal of power. Most people are not willing to give up things they love nor give up any of their conveniences in order to reduce their electric bill. Individuals can however consider something like solar power when they have a real desire to do something about their bill and energy consumption.

The solar power industry has seen its business grow exponentially in recent years due to the aforementioned facts. Throw in difficult economic times and it's not hard to see why so many individuals/homeowners are switching to Orange County solar power. Solar power used to be expensive to set up and even maintain but over the last few decades the technology has come so far that those problems and extremely high costs are now gone, making solar power affordable to families of all socioeconomic classes.

While some solar power setups are still expensive, especially for large homes or business offices, most families can get away with a small or medium system installation. These can range anywhere from $15,000-$40,000 depending on a family's needs and the size of their home. Businesses however will need to spend a little bit more on large solar power and that type of setup can run anywhere from $40,000-$60,000. Despite what some might see as a hefty installation fee it's important to keep in mind that, depending on the system it set up, Orange County solar power can reduce a family's electricity bill by 75% or negate it altogether if they choose to go all out with their solar power.

There are many advantages to using solar power outside of reducing an electric bill. One of these advantages is having electricity during a power outage. More advanced solar power systems will allow a family to have power during power outages because a battery/generator backup system will be installed along with their solar panels. While power is limited during a power outage it can be comforting for families to know that they still have the ability to use some things around the house. Not all solar power systems however include a backup battery or generator and those that do are often considerably more expensive than those that don't so be sure to ask questions when you speak with an Orange County solar power specialist.

Whether you want a more advanced solar power system or you just want something to help reduce your energy consumption and your bill it's important to first ask as many questions you can. When you contact a company that offers solar power they should be able to answer any and all questions you have regarding not only the systems they sell but how the process actually works. A little bit of time, research, and a lot of questions will help you make an informed decision for your family and/or business.