Examples of Solar Energy - Residential Uses

Solar energy is being more widely used every day. The efficiency of solar power also continues to improve, making it even more attractive for both residential and business use. What are some examples of solar energy? Examples can be found everywhere today.

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Solar Energy Use In the Home

Solar power has been around for a very long time. The simplest examples of solar energy use can be found in basic tasks, such as using the sun to dry clothes or food. These days, some homeowners turn to solar home heating or solar water heating to power their homes. Things like the clothes washer & dryer, heating hot water for the bath, powering the oven, and of course lighting in the home, can all be run with solar power. There are even solar power pool heaters and air conditioners.

Outdoor living spaces can be enhanced through the use of solar garden lights and Christmas lights, solar power garden fountains, and even solar power birdbaths. Solar power post caps can add a nice touch to fences and decks.

For people who enjoy cooking outdoors, it's even possible to cook with solar power. It's a handy thing to know when out camping ... or when the electricity goes out!

Looking for a Christmas gift for kids? How about a solar powered toy? Educational and fun, they're a big hit with many kids and are available in a wide variety of choices - robots, jumping 'bugs', build-it-yourself-kits, cute little animals, cars, you name it.

More Extensive Uses of Residential Solar Energy

Homeowners who utilize solar energy often install solar roof tiles to collect the energy from the sun. Despite the positive effect on the environment and the cost savings from being "off the grid", the popularity of solar power has been hampered somewhat by the initial investment cost. You could build your own solar panels to save money - although such an undertaking isn't for everyone, there are many solar panel kits available to make it easier.

Outside of residential homes, other examples of solar energy include the use of solar power to power cars, planes, boats, and RVs.