Over one million American homes now have solar panels installed. This has proven to be a popular choice for many families as a way to reduce their energy costs. In some states there is so much sunshine, it means that most of your energy needs could be covered. There have been plenty of popular schemes that allow you to sell your excess solar power to the main grid too. This means you can enjoy an income for your solar panel investment. So what are you going to use all that lovely sunshine for?
Power Your Vehicles
Yep, if you charge your electric car, your elektrische scooter, or even your RV battery during a sunny day, you’ll be fully powered for free! Think about how much you’re spending down at the gas station. Wouldn’t it wonderful to say goodbye to all the hassle as well as the cost? If you love your RV, chances are you’re using the battery power even when it’s sat on your drive. Give it a boost, and enjoy. Sadly, you’re still going to need to get some gas to move it off the drive, though.
Do Your Laundry
Is it really that daft to use a tumble dryer on a sunny day? Think about all the times you’ve collected your washing from the line to find birds had fouled it. And what on earth is that dreadful stench on the air? Don’t forget pollution can cling to clothing fibers too. Your solar panels could power your tumble dryer as well as the washing machine. Maybe other appliances too (assuming your circuits can handle the draw.) A winter’s day may be sunny, but washing won’t dry on the line for hours.
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Vacuuming
OK, so the panels won’t actually take care of your housework for you. But if you have battery-powered vacuum cleaners like the robot vacuum or a handheld cleaner, you can get them charged up and ready to go at no cost. Remember those big ol’ corded ones from years ago? They were power-hungry and probably cost you a lot more on your electricity bill than you might think. Go for a rechargeable one and clean up for free.
Cook Dinner
Seriously, the panels aren’t going to serve up a meal! But, if you cook it in an electric oven, microwave or slow cooker, you won’t incur any energy costs. Make food while the sun shines! Electric hobs and electric ovens will draw an enormous amount of energy. This could exceed what you’re generating up on your roof, so check your monitor. Even if you’re not quite breaking even, you could still be reducing the cost of cooking quite substantially.
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Heat The House
Space heaters are a firm favorite on a chilly night. Unfortunately, the sun doesn’t shine during those wee hours. Still, you can keep one or two rooms nice and toasty before you lose the light with those small portable heaters. If you live in colder climes, you may even be able to keep the room you are in nice and warm on a sunny day without turning on your boiler. Every little helps.