We know that going solar is not cheap, but with easy changes you can make, making the switch can be much more affordable. Reducing your energy demand will, in turn, lower your initial investment costs. Changes might include these easy-to-follow steps that can save hundreds or even thousands on your system:

1. Replace all your electric bulbs with CFL bulbs. (These bulbs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last 10 times longer).

2. Get into the habit of turning lights off when you leave a room. If you cannot do this, install motion sensors that will turn the lights off for you.

3. Use as much daylight as possible.

4. Minimize your “ghost loads” (appliances that consume energy even when they are off. Most common are the electronic clocks on microwaves, amplifiers, phone chargers, answering machines, TV’s and computers).

5. Insulate your electric water heater and hot water piping to prevent heat loss.

6. Use cold water with detergent designed for cold water laundry washing to minimize hot water usage.