How would one convert a regular home into solar?

Question

How would one convert a regular home into solar?

Answer 1

By spending a ton of cash on solar equipment, which will take anywhere from 15-20 years of savings to pay for itself.

Longer, if you don't factor in the government subsidies.

And WAAAAY longer, if your home gets re-assesed, and your taxes go up. (which is what routinely happens here in California).

One guy in Volcano Ca., put up a big windmill. They re-assessed, adding $90K in value to his home, and his tax increase was GREATER than what he saved on electricity.

He was on the news, telling people NOT to do solar or wind power, because the government was basically punishing you if you did.

(They're also phasing out the government rebates)

Sorry, I really wish solar made sense, but it almost never does.

Answer 2

yes work out your heating cooling situation and how you can maximise the passive solar design of your house, look at getting some solar hot water system, that will greatly save you money and heating of water and house is about 70%-80% of your bill anyway.

If you want to heat your house with solar panels you may as well knock your house down and start over again. will be cheaper.

Answer 3

To take advantage of passive solar heating, put as many windows(or a wall of glass) on the south facing side of your house. In this room (or rooms) take out carpet and replace with slate tile or other natural stone flooring. Check out this site for DIY solar heating and hot water projects....                     builditsolar.com

Answer 4

It could be done with lots of money.

Answer 5

Add photovoltaic or solar thermal collectors, or both (usually on the roof), depending on what kind(s) of energy you want.  It helps to have a fat wallet, as none of this equipment will pay for itself unless you get a fat subsidy.