| If "do-it-yourself" brings to mind peeling wallpaper or | | | | If you're like the average American, you'll stay in your |
| crooked trim, think again! One of the hottest - and | | | | home at least seven years. So, do the math. How |
| greenest - DIY projects around today are DIY | | | | much of your hard-earned greenbacks will you shell |
| residential solar panels. That's right, you can build your | | | | out for energy costs while you live in your current |
| own homemade solar panels and start seeing green, | | | | home? If you plan on staying longer than seven years |
| because it's not only great for the environment, it's | | | | (and plenty of us do), the costs go even higher. |
| fantastic for your wallet, too! | | | | Given the severe economic downturn that's affecting |
| How To Get Started | | | | all of us, finding ways to cut expenses isn't an option |
| But don't try to go it alone. Any good DIY project | | | | anymore - it's an absolute necessity. Fortunately, there |
| needs your upfront investment by way of education. | | | | are plenty of ways to do that, and you'll find that |
| Fortunately, there has never been a better time to | | | | building your own DIY residential solar panels is one of |
| investigate the "how-to" of DIY residential solar panels. | | | | the smartest and most satisfying options available. The |
| Home owners across America are starting to get | | | | fact that it's the right thing to do for the environment is |
| serious about alternative energy sources and solar | | | | icing on the cake. |
| panels are often at the top of the list. The reason why | | | | Keep in mind that building your own solar panels isn't |
| is simple - the technology for homemade solar panels | | | | free. But when you compare the expense to what |
| has become more accessible and affordable, while | | | | you're already paying out right this minute, the savings |
| information for the residential do-it-yourselfer is readily | | | | start to become obvious. Moreover, depending on |
| available both at your local bookstore and online. | | | | where you live and how much sunlight your home |
| If you spend a little time checking around, you'll quickly | | | | receives, you might even be able to sell energy back |
| discover a gold mine in DVDs, web sources and | | | | to your power company. Talk about turning the tables! |
| easy-to-follow manuals that itemize the tools and | | | | Now, that's what we call a nice return on investment! |
| materials you need to get started on your solar panel | | | | And, unlike some of those other DIY projects, building |
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| explain the best procedure to follow. Plan on spending | | | | weekend for the next year and a half. |
| a modest amount to get going. Shop for your materials | | | | Plan carefully and assemble your materials ahead of |
| and educate yourself as to where you can scrimp - | | | | time. Research how the components work together. |
| and where you should splurge. | | | | Check out any extra support offered by your how-to |
| Do the Math | | | | guide, such as a toll-free number or a website with real |
| Take a few minutes and gather your energy bills for | | | | time technical advice. Many guides offer such additional |
| the last year, or review your checkbook. Many of us | | | | support and most homeowners find the help invaluable. |
| saw a dramatic leap in heating and electricity costs. | | | | Then, before you know it, your new DIY residential |
| How much did you spend on energy costs last year? | | | | solar panels will be built, installed and generating clean, |
| $3,500? $4,000? More? You're not alone. | | | | cheap, renewable energy. How great is that? |