Solar energy is a renewable resource that is unlimited and always accessible, compared to fossil fuels such as coal, oil and natural gas. It is a clean energy source and allocates for local energy independence that is free from pollution.
The sun produces about 1,000 Watts per square meter that reaches the earth at noon on a clear day. This is just like having a 100 Watt light bulb completely focused on a surface of a big notebook. Most of the time, capturing solar energy requires buying expensive equipment. But because renewable resources are free, the amount you spend using them is equivalent to, and sometimes cheaper than using other energy resources such as fossil fuels. In terms of environmental costs, renewable energy resources are much more affordable compared to conventional energy sources.
You can also use solar energy to heat your home. Your home’s heating needs can be met with solar energy by simply having proper orientation on an east-west axis and with the use of proper window glazing and shading. In the same respect, most residential hot water needs can be satisfied by using a simple solar water heating system.
Solar Water Heating Systems
The heat from the sun is easily absorbed by water. To heat water, a solar collector, which is usually placed on the roof, is used in a passive solar water heater. Then, convection, a process which is a natural movement of the heated water, transfers it into the water tank in your home. A passive solar water heating system may be able to supply as much as fifty percent or more of your household’s daily hot water needs.
Solar Cookers
Solar cookers have a very simple principle. It works by concentrating the powerful rays of the sun through one or two layers of glass onto food that is placed in an insulated box. Another way is using a dark-colored cooking pot with a glass lid. The only disadvantage would be that it would take a longer period of time before your food will be cooked.
Energy Saving Toys
Most toys nowadays require batteries or electricity for them to work. Encourage your kids to go for the more environment-friendly ones. Look for solar powered toys like race cars and speed boats. You can also have them try manual toys for which they supply the power. You can also use a solar recharger to charge reusable batteries for battery operated toys. This can also give you the chance to educate your kids early on about protecting the environment by taking advantage of renewable energy resources like solar power.
Energy Saving Tools
Mowing the lawn can be more fun and good for the environment, not to mention a good exercise, if you choose to use a manual push mower instead of a gasoline powered one. Manual mowers, trimmer and rakes do not consume fuel energy sources and cost less to purchase, operate and maintain. Solar rechargeable flashlights and also lanterns, water purifiers and portable solar showers are also some of the best tools you can utilize.
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