If you are determined to go green and are aiming at saving quite a few bucks by lowering your energy bills and decreasing dependence on the electricity grid, you have to rely on renewable forms of energy. And the best and most accessible form of renewable energy is solar energy. So make your home solar powered by using solar appliances.

If you are decided to convert to solar power home, do take a look at the appliances that will suit your purpose and help you replace the alternatives run by conventional forms of energy.

Solar Cookers

Solar cookers use the heat energy of the rays of the sun to cook food. If you can use solar cookers efficiently you will be able to save three to four LPG cylinders every year. These are easy to use and quite durable. There are two types of solar cookers –

Dish Type – This kind of solar cooker has a parabolic dish that concentrates the incoming solar radiation. It is also known as the ‘SK-14’ solar cooker. It has a higher capacity compared to the other type – box type. It can prepare food for nearly fifteen people and it can be operated for almost eight to nine hours every day. You can use this cooker for frying, roasting, and boiling. The metallic structure can last almost twenty years. But you will have to replace the sheets after every five years.

Box Type – You can cook most of the food with this type of solar cooker except for frying and baking. This is perfect for cooking on sunny days but is not so great on cloudy days. The lifespan of such cookers is usually 10 to 12 years.\

Sunflair-Portable-Complete-Dehydrating-Thermometer

If you have decided on going solar, the first step would be to buy a solar cooker or solar oven. Here’s one such well-acclaimed solar oven is for you to discover.

Solar Lantern

A solar-powered lantern or flashlight can replace a torch for your outdoor activities – in and around your home. It is portable and lightweight. It might need some time to charge but once done, it is more energy-efficient. A solar torch is another option. These go a long way in saving conventional fuels.

MAGGIFT-Hanging-Lights-Outdoor-Lantern

This solar lantern from Maggift will not only take care of energy conservation but will also increase the face value of your home with its aesthetics. When it comes to solar torches, you can always try these out…

Solar water heaters

Solar water heaters work perfectly as long as you can access the top of your building. They use the rays of the sun to heat water for domestic and commercial use. It contains a collector that collects solar energy and a tank to store hot water which is insulated. The collector receives the solar energy and transfers the heat to the underlying pipes which contain water and this, in turn, goes to the insulated storage tank. The water undergoes recirculation to increase its temperature.

The lifespan of such heaters ranges between 15 to 20 years. But maintenance is important. Also, you need to live in a place that has ample sunlight. This will help you replace your geyser with such heaters.

Advanced-Elements-Gallon-Summer-Shower

If you are on the lookout for one such solar water heater which has been appreciated by the customers, then you can go for one solar shower from Advanced Elements.

Solar Lighting

For solar lighting, you can go for solar LEDs. These can be used both outside your home as well as on the terrace.
A solar lighting system can be a full-fledged lighting system for the entire house with varying sizes of battery, PV and lighting fixtures.

If you are thinking about solar LEDs, then this item from Aootek may be considered, being highly rated by the customers.

Solar Keyboard

Logitech K750 Wireless Solar Keyboard for Mac

The solar keyboard can work for three months in total darkness and can charge itself whenever there is light in the room. It functions as a calculator with solar cells. Would you care for this super functioning wireless keyboard?

Other essential solar items include solar fans and solar refrigerators. These will not only bring down the monthly electric bill but will also help you go green and stand in at times of power shortage.

With all these solar-powered appliances you are probably well prepared to make your home go entirely solar!

 

 

If you are on a search for solar angel statues that will light up your garden every night, this article will help you to make your choice. Here we will discuss six different types of solar angels for garden:
So let’s begin:

1. Solar Stake Light with Fiber Optic Angel Decorative Lights

Solar Stake Light with Fiber Optic Angel Decorative Lights

These stake lights have stunning angel design with unique wings when observed from all angles. They will automatically light up as evening sets in and is great for illuminating garden pathways, trees, flowerbed, fence, and patio.

• This set of Angel stake light contains 2 packs with 7 color-changing patterns.
• It can work about 6-8 hours when fully charged during the day from sunlight and is converted to electricity when night falls.
• Sturdy and well built enough to withstand bad weather and rain.

These lights will decorate your garden during the day, and illuminate it during the night. If you are interested, check out the current feedback and price from here.

2. Solar Angels light with 2 Solar LEDs in the wings

Solar Angels light with 2 Solar LEDs in the wings

The second solar Angle we have chosen is another stake light which has 12 solar LED in its wings. Though it appears crystal-like and fragile, consumers have reported that this acrylic Angel solar lights are sturdy enough to withstand all weather conditions.

• It comes in eight different colors: blue, purple, white, pink, clear blue, clear white, clear pink and clear purple
• Stands 35.5 inches that are about 2.9 ft tall with the stake
• Can light up for 4 hrs every night.

In my opinion, If you are looking for a solar angle for a memorial site or grave, this is a good choice. Check out more details here.

3. Solar Powered Praying Angel LED Outdoor Decor Garden Light

Solar Powered Praying Angel LED Outdoor Decor Garden Light

Our next recommendation is a solar-powered praying angel which is perfect for any place with direct sunlight such as an outdoor patio, garden, porch, lawn, pathway, or cottage!

It is made up of Polyresin which is a stone-based compound formed by combining oxylite and polystone. As a result, it looks like porcelain but is heavier and durable than porcelain.

Measures about 4” height,8” wide and comes with a rechargeable battery. Check out more details about this Solar angle for the garden here

4. Solar Powered Angel with Solar Glowing Globe LED

Solar Powered Angel with Solar Glowing Globe LED

This is a cute looking kneeling Angel with glowing color changing globe. A great item for mother’s day gift, it can be perfect for a flower garden or even indoors.

It is made of Polyresin and hand-painted with a lot of details and is shipped with a rechargeable battery in the package. Check it out here at Amazon.

5.    Solar Powered Fairy Angel with Wings and Solar Glowing Jar LED Garden Light Decor

Solar Powered Fairy Angel with Wings and Solar Glowing Jar LED Garden Light Decor

This is a sitting Angel with wings holding a solar glowing Jar. It looks good even at daytime but further adds to the charm when at evening the jar lights up.

It’s a good gift item for anyone who loves flower garden. Measuring about 9.6” by 7.6”, it comes with a one-year limited warranty.

Learn more about this Kneeling Solar Angel by clicking here

6. 21 Inches Tall – Beautiful Garden Angel of Peace Statue with Light-Up Halo

21 Inches Tall – Beautiful Garden Angel of Peace Statue with Light-Up Halo

This is a graceful Angle statue holding a small bird, in a flowing gown. It is sculpted of polyresin and finished in a way to resemble carved marble with moss accents.

The solar panel is contained in the base in the back side of the statue which charges by day and automatically illuminates her halo at dusk with 10 tiny LED lights.

It will add a great charm to your garden providing a beautiful view every evening. It stands 21” tall. Click here to check out other features and details.

 

If you want to go wireless with your keyboard and also aim to preserve conventional energy sources, then a solar keyboard is perhaps the best option. So let us all go green with solar keyboards and to make our task simpler, have a peek through the assortment on display to find the one that best suits your needs and pockets…..

Macally Wireless Solar Keyboard for PC Computer Desktop, Laptops/Notebooks

This stylish wireless solar keyboard manufactured by Macally is priced at around $40.00 and is bestowed with extraordinary features like –

• Easy to use the solar-powered keyboard – No hassle of recharging or replacing batteries
• Can charge through any light source from LEDs, natural light, lamps, halogen bulbs, etc.
• Quiet, comfortable and full-size extendable keyboard
• Strong 2.4 G wireless receiver connection – no cable clutter
• Quick and easy to set up
• 17 WINDOWS shortcut and CAPS LOCK and Battery LED Indicators – effective PC shortcuts and ability to see the mode of caps lock
• Slim and stunning design, but still long-lasting and durable
• Concave keycap design, anti-slip grips with added weight tilt bar
• Compatible with all Windows 7/8/10 computers

With such amazing features, you would definitely like to find the current price of the product, won’t you?

Nulaxy Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard with Detachable Leather Cover

Coming from the house of Nulaxy, this unique solar keyboard is an epitome of virtues. Read on to discover them.

• Backlit Bluetooth Keyboard with 3 adjustable brightness levels and 5 adjustable colors – clear and distinct keys for typing
• Keyboard with magnetic and detachable leather cover
• Reliable connection and accurate transmission
• Rechargeable Bluetooth keyboard – Long and rechargeable battery life enters sleep mode if kept inactive for 15 minutes, can wake it up by pressing any key
• Ultra-thin (10 mm) keyboard – Silent typing atmosphere
• Wide compatibility with a tablet, iPhone, iPad Pro, iPad, Phone, iPad Mini and all Bluetooth devices as well as with Android, IOS system and Window
• 18-month quality guarantee

This item costs $26.00 at the time of writing. If the specs mentioned above interests you, why not find about the item in detail to see whether the pricing is optimal?

Arteck HB030B Universal Slim Portable Wireless Bluetooth 3.0 7-Colors Backlit Keyboard with Built-in Rechargeable Battery

This slim wireless portable solar keyboard belongs to the house of Arteck and is bestowed with the under listed brilliant attributes –

• 7 elegant LED backlight with auto sleep feature and 2 brightness levels
• Wide compatibility – Compatible with four main OS and also with various iPads, iPhone, Android tabs, Windows, Nexus, Mac and more
• Rechargeable lithium battery with six-month life in between charges
• The keyboard comes with a welcome guide, USB charging cable, friendly customer service, and 24-month warranty
• Ultra-thin, light and compact size

At the time of writing, the keyboard is priced at around $20.00. Why don’t you find out what the customers have to say about this highly-rated product?

Wireless Keyboard, J JOYACCESS 2.4G Slim and Compact Wireless Keyboard for Computer, Laptop, Windows, PC, Desktop, Smart TV

This slim solar keyboard from J JOYACCESS has the following astonishing features that make it worthy and unique –

• Compact and slim keyboard with numeric keypad – Fast data entry and typing
• Wireless keyboard with keys having scissor-cross low profile making the keyboard quiet and responsive
• Easy to install and stable connection
• Fast and convenient operation – Easy access to music, e-mail, internet, volume and more by multi-media hotkeys
• Compatible with Windows XP/7/8/10 and with a laptop, desktop, and other devices
• Long battery life of more than 90 days
• 12-month after-sales service

Cons

Not compatible with Mac System
Need a USB receiver to connect for usage

This particular solar keyboard is currently priced at approximately $ 22.00. Would you like to know the customer rating and read the buyer’s reviews?

Logitech K400 Plus Wireless Touch TV Keyboard with Easy Media Control and Built-In Touchpad

This model of touch TV keyboard from the stables of Logitech has some extraordinary attributes like –

• Enjoy effortless control of TV-connected computer
• Comfy, quiet keys with a large touchpad
• Slim and compact
• Wireless range of 10 m – easy connection even in the largest room
• Media friendly and familiar key layout
• 2.4GHz connection type
• Plug and play design – Setup of TV keyboard a snap
• Wide compatibility with later Android 5.0 or later Chrome OS and with Windows 7, 8, 10
• 18 months of battery life

Cons

Wireless range depends on computer setup and operating environment

This particular keyboard costs $25.00 approximately at the time of writing the review. Want to know the current price and seller information?

Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Set, Seenda Ultra Thin Low Profile Rechargeable Keyboard and Mouse Combo with Number Pad for Windows-Space Gray

This particular item from Seenda is a packet of unique features that are bound to serve the purpose of most users. The key features of this keyboard are –

• Rechargeable mouse and keyboard – Recharge done with Micro USB cable
• Single recharge lasts almost 2 – 3 months due to on/off switch and auto-sleep function
• Low profile key, scissor-switch structure design, and silent mouse
• Lifetime product warranty
• Resend or refund if product defective
• Compatible with Windows 2000, XP, Vista, 7, 8 and 10
• Ultra-slim and compact with 99 keys having all necessary functions
• Plug and play makes installation super easy
• 2.4G advanced technology giving a range of around 26’

Cons

Not compatible with Mac, OS system

This wireless wonder comes at a price of less than $40.00. Want to know what the customers have to say about this product before you make the final decision?

Wireless Keyboard Mouse, Jelly Comb 2.4GHz Ultra Slim Full Size Rechargeable Wireless Keyboard and Mouse Combo

This wireless combo of mouse and keyboard manufactured by Jelly Comb is bestowed with the under listed specs –

• Precision mouse and full-size keyboard
• Compatible with both computer and laptop and with Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 and 10
• Ultra-Slim Aluminum Design – Durable and compact with quiet keys
• Hotkeys for media control and access to applications
• Built-in, 280 mAh rechargeable lithium battery – Recharged via USB cable
• 2.4GHz reliable wireless connection – one plug and play receiver for both mouse and keyboard
• No additional software needed
• Adjustable DPI switch – Mouse sensitivity easily adjusted between 3 DPI levels to suit gaming and ordinary needs
• The optical laser allows precise movement, quick response, and smoother tracking
• Key life – 3 million strokes
• Working range – Within 8 meters

Cons

Mouse needs 2 AAA batteries that are not included

This solar keyboard is priced at around $40.00 at the time of writing the review. What is the current price? Find out for yourself…….

Apple Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypad (Wireless, Rechargeable) (US English)

This option from the reputed house of Apple is an epitome of virtues of the like –

• Magic Keyboard with Numeric Keypads
• Extended layout with document navigation controls
• Full-size arrow keys
• Numeric keypad ideal for finance applications and spreadsheets
• Scissor mechanism beneath each key – Stability
• Low profile and optimized key travel – Precise and comfy typing
• Bluetooth-enabled Mac computer with macOS 10.12.4 or later, iOS devices with iOS 10.3 or later

The price of this product is a bit on the upper side being priced at almost $115.00 at the time of writing the article. Why not get a view of the customer ratings and read the reviews to see whether the price is justified?

 

The heat and temperature in your attic during the summer days are almost unbearable. And this heat is bound to affect your electricity bills and the air conditioning of your house. If these are your issues, the solution lies in a solar attic fan that will cool your attic and bring down your electric consumption and help you go green! Come, let us find out about some of the most acclaimed solar attic fans that you will get to see in the marketplace today!

Solar Attic Fan RoofBlaster with Galvanized Vent

Solar Attic Fan RoofBlaster with Galvanized Vent

This particular solar roof and attic fan manufactured by Solar Blaster is solar-powered and has galvanized vent. You can get the instructions for installation with the purchase. The solar panel is secure. This item is a perfect choice of ventilation for your garage, garden shed, greenhouse, home, storage shed, utility shed and also dog house. The fan comes pre-installed on a galvanized 8” metal can roof vent with flashing (16.5” x 16’5”). A 3W solar panel is fixed to the top surface of the vent hood with four exclusive, stainless steel clips and wired to a two-ball bearing, 2700rpm, airflow capacity of 39cfm fan is rated for 50000 hours. The metal vent is to last a lifetime as compared to plastic vents found in other similar products. This is so because plastic is bound to fade and get brittle over time, more so being placed on a hot roof.

Installation is similar to similar products and it does not allow you to install fewer vents. The solar power is used to boost the effectiveness of the passive roof ventilation system. One fan is required for every 600 sf roof area. So a typical home of about 1200 sf would need 3 – 5 vents. The ventilation should be uniform across the entire attic space. This is the reason that most homes have numerous ridge venting or passive vents installed.

It works in a way such that cool air comes in from the eave’s soffit vents, move along the total roof deck so as to move out at the top through the passive vents. The uniform movement of air will keep the deck of the roof moisture free and dry. The insulation’s r-value is also kept from falling due to condensation dripping down from the roof deck. The fan does not include an on/off switch or a thermostat and the same is not needed. The fan is to run in summer to remove the heat and in winter to remove moisture due to condensation.

Pros

• Galvanized vent – lasts a lifetime
• Secure solar panel
• Great ventilation
• Pre-installed on metallic vent
• Easy to install – fan pre-installed

Cons

• The fan may be too small to cover the hole left in your roof by previous roof vents
• Replacement issues

So if you are troubled with the trapped moisture and heat in your attic and want to make your environment cleaner at the same time increasing the life span of your roof, why not have a look at the price and customer ratings of this product?

40-Watt Galvanized Steel 14 inch Solar Attic Fan

40-Watt Galvanized Steel 14 inch Solar Attic Fan

This option of solar attic fan comes from the house of Amtrak Solar and consists of new 14” fan housing with 10” highly efficient fan blade manufactured by Revor which is perfect for opening louver. It can be installed easily with quick-connect wires.

The fan motor is thermal protected and covers area up to 2250 sq. ft. It is manufactured in the USA and is widely used in greenhouse, RV, Gabel vent or garage. It comes with 15’ extra wires and brackets. The solar panel is 40 W high-quality crystalline variety and you get an optional thermostat for free on placing a request. The fan is of 12 volt DC variety and configured to work with a solar panel.

As soon as the sun rays fall on the panel, the fan starts moving and keeps working throughout the day. With this attic fan, you don’t need to make holes in the roof. You also need no permits, electricians or inspections. The wiring is not only quick but easy too. It produces power for more than 30 years and the solar panels come with 4 Z mounting brackets, bolts, and nuts. The installation instructions are included. The predrilled solar panel is easy to install.

Pros

• 40 watt high quality crystalline solar panel
• 12 volt DC fan with 14” High-Efficiency fan blade
• Produces power for 30 years
• Covers 2250 sq ft
• No permit/inspection/electrician

Cons

• Not powerful enough
• Poor craftsmanship
• Small fan blades – not perfect for bigger areas
• The motor has a loud noise

This option is priced at around $145.00 at the time of writing this review. So, if you are thinking of ways to eliminate the heat built-up in your attic during summer without laying stress on your electricity bill, why not go through the customer reviews for this option? It might be just what you are looking for!

Solar Attic Fan 24-watt with 25- Year Warranty

Solar Attic Fan 24-watt with 25- Year Warranty

This solar attic fan made by Natural Light comes with an industry-leading limited warranty of 25 years on the entire unit. The optional snap-on thermostat which is used in colder climes and fire safety switches are sold separately.

It requires no wiring and uses the best quality materials in any Solar Attic fan in the market. It can be easily installed on pitched fiberglass-asphalt shingle roofs and requires no wiring. The cooling load on AC is decreased as it runs on solar energy. The solar panel is adjustable and there are three models. It is made from powder coated aircraft quality aluminum.

It has a venting capacity of 2100 sq ft per fan and increases CFM up to 1339. You may have to buy tile roof flashing kits and turret extension if you are thinking of installing it on tile roofs. This solar unit may be eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit.

Pros

• Economical
• No wiring needed
• Inclusive of all necessary installation materials
• Industry leading warranty of 25 years

Cons

• Optional thermostat and fire safety switch sold separately
• Does not support rotation

This solar attic fan model comes at a price of around $395.00 at the time of writing this article. Why not find its current price so that you can save on your electricity and build a safer environment for the years to come?

 

 

Are you on the lookout for an animal repellant that will make the unwanted animals and pests flee without disturbing your peace? It should not emit irritating sounds, right? Also, changing batteries frequently is an irritation you want to be saved from. If the repellants are waterproof, it would be an added advantage.

If these are your concerns, going through the review of the following options of solar animal repellers would place you in a better position to think and opt.

But first here’s a comparison table for Solar Animal Repellers that we recommend

Models/Attributes	FAYINWBO Dog Cat Animal Repeller	DURANOM Ultrasonic Wild Animal Repeller	Great Outdoors Ultrasonic Animal Repeller
Repelling Features	Strong flash LED strobe light and ultrasonic alarm sound	Ultrasonic with an alarm sound and strobe light	Infrared motion sensor and strong ultrasonic sound
Range	8 – 9 meter; detection angle 110o horizontal	230 sq feet eviction zone	30 feet; infrared sensor angle 110o
Settings/ modes	5 different sensitivity modes and 4 variable frequencies	5 different settings	-
Weather resistance	Waterproof	Can withstand light rain	Can withstand rainfall or snowfall
Bonus	Easy installation	Installed in 10 seconds, portable and safe	Excellent customer support, portable and no toxicity

FAYINWBO Dog Cat Solar Animal Repeller With Motion Sensor and Flash Intimidation

FAYINWBO Dog Cat Solar Animal Repeller

This solar animal repellant from the house of FAYINWBO gets rid of animals like cats, mice, birds, skunks, deer, dogs, foxes, raccoons, rodents, wild boars and many others by emitting a strong flash LED strobe light and ultrasonic alarm sound. Whenever the repeller detects a slow moving object it will start working and get back to sleep mode at a normal time. The different sensitivity modes can be set according to requirements. Also, various frequencies may be applied to various animals. The frequency can be set to find the range area and the sensitivity can be increased to a higher setting.

The repeller is an easy way to drive away and evict animals. It can work equally well on rainy days being waterproof. It consists of a solar panel on its top which can be recharged easily. The solar energy is used to charge the battery. You may also use a 5-12V adapter for charging in areas like farms, lawns, manors, gardens, nurseries, and orchards. Installation is easy. The product is to point towards the area that needs protection and then the desired mode is to be selected and finally, it has to be inserted into the ground. It consists of 2 suspension holes and the fixed unit has nails that can be hung on things like fences, trees and walls to increase the effectiveness.

This repellant has 5 modes and you have the liberty to choose the most apt and effective one. Costing is reduced with solar energy and wireless charging. The package includes 1 USB cable, 1 user manual, 1 solar repeller, and a two-section aluminum mounting rod. The repeller has an effective range of 8-9 meters, a charging time of 7 hours and a detection angle of 110o horizontal. The frequency ranges and effectiveness at a glance –

Button Frequency Position	Effective Frequency	Expels
0	Off	N/A
1	13.5 kHz – 19.5KHZ	Mice, small animals, baboons, etc.
2	19.5 kHz – 24.5 kHz	Cats, dogs, skunks, rats, foxes, etc.
3	24.5 kHz – 45.5 kHz	Raccoons, rabbits, rodents, badgers, birds, etc.

 

When all buttons fail, selecting the 4-button will emit the strong LED and sound the alarm and scare away the wild.

This repellant is priced at $30.00 approximately at the time of writing the review. Would you like to check its current price?

DURANOM Ultrasonic Solar Repeller for Deer, Racoon and other Wild animals

DURANOM Ultrasonic Solar Repeller for Deer

This option of solar animal repeller manufactured by Duranom is ultrasonic with an alarm sound and strobe light. It is safe for both humans and animals and can be installed in 10 seconds flat. It is powered by solar energy and is portable and adjustable with a 230 sq feet eviction zone.

The repeller is able to withstand light rain and doesn’t require much movement. The wavelengths used are not within the human audible range and so you are saved from all intrusive noises. It is also equipped with an alarm sound to scare away bigger animals. There are 5 different settings that cover birds, skunks, cats, raccoons, rats, stray dogs, deer and mice.

This animal repeller uses solar energy and rechargeable batteries and is thus your way of going green. The two different colors of the repeller have a special purpose. This is because orange allows predators like tigers to creep on their prey remaining invisible and the orange color in the repeller forms a blind spot for most of the animals which makes them flee. Again the military gray aids it to remain hidden and function efficiently without getting damaged or harassed by animals. It comes with USB and battery.

The current price of the repellant is around $40.00. Would you like to know the customer rating so that you can finalize your choice?

Eco-Friendly and Waterproof Solar Repellant with Sound Control and Flashing Light and Sonic Deterrent for Bird Deer Cat Dog Raccoon Fox

Eco-Friendly and Waterproof Solar Repellant with Sound Control and Flashing Light

This solar repellant is an all-weather product as it is able to withstand rainfall or snowfall. Since it is recharged by solar energy, you can use it round-the-clock in your garden. It is equipped with an infrared motion sensor and strong ultrasonic sound to scare away unwanted animals.

The ultrasound gets activated as soon as the animal enters the protected range. Being solar-powered, this is an eco-friendly and energy-saving way of protecting your farm, yard, patio, garden, lawn and garage from pests and unwanted animals.

The company provides all answers to your queries within 20 hours, so you get top quality customer service. You just need to insert it in-ground soil where there is lots of sunlight and switch it on. The design is small and portable which enables you to install it at home, courtyard, garden and just anywhere.

It covers an area of 30 ft. and is totally natural and contains no toxic chemicals. The infrared sensor angle is 110 degrees. When the adapter is plugged, it will continue working and the PIR sensor will not function.

On rainy or cloudy days, it can be charged with the adapter. The red LED shows that the unit is activated. The solar-powered attribute makes it eco-friendly and green.

The price of this product hovers around $30 at the time of writing. Why not take a look at the customer reviews so that you know whether this unit satisfies your requirements?

 

 

Want to make your garden more attractive? One easy and sure-shot way of doing that is adding a water source to it. Solar water fountains are one of the best alternatives in this alley. A water fountain will make your garden more pleasant because any kind of moving water is always a source of joy. The sight is exquisitely beautiful, the sound will bring peace and calm and there will be endless possibilities to explore.

You can have such water fountains practically anywhere – patio, lawn, garden, courtyards – in your house with the aid of the technology of solar panels. With solar-powered water fountains, you are saved from the worries of using electricity or cords across the garden.

There is a huge collection of solar fountain pumps available in the market. And, of these, the Japanese solar fountain pump is not only visually appealing but aesthetic too.

You can beautify your garden with many different kinds of solar water sources.

Let us find out more about these…

Tiered solar-powered fountains

Kenroy-Home-51009SNDST-Fountain-Sandstone

These solar fountains add elegance to your garden or patios. The tiered fountains are available in various designs and decors.

The tiers make these fountains ideal to be used as a birdbath. It is preferable to choose one which has a backup battery supply so that they do not become useless on cloudy days or in the evenings. Moreover, if the fountain has a self-sustaining design, water will be continuously pumped into it.

So, look for such recirculating solar powered fountains so that water will continuously be recycled from a reservoir and the wastage of water would be minimized.

Solar Pond Fountains

Stagnant water leads to algae development, bacteria growth, mosquito breeding, and many other such nuisances and if you are worried about all this and want a safe fountain in your garden free from all these hazards, go for solar pond fountains. The solar pump powered by sunlight saves you from the hazards of electricity and keeps the water flowing in the pond.

These ponds come in various shapes, designs and sizes and the water in them dance to the tune of sunlight! These can double up as birdbaths and being solar, the operating costs are quite low and you can enjoy its ambiance even when the sun goes down.

Few other solar water sources for your garden are cascade solar fountains, solar bird baths, solar wall fountains, solar fountain pumps and many more. The designs are so varied and unique that there is one for each of you out there. Here, we have the details of one Japanese solar water fountain that has been applauded by almost all the customers who have bought it.

Bamboo-Accents-Adjustable-Half-Round-Split-Resistant

This option of water fountain belongs to the renowned house of Bamboo Accents. The support arms of this fountain adjust easily so that you can hear loud splashes on an outdoor deck and in your office or living room it exudes soft calm sounds. The perfect environment can be created by adding shells or small stones and pebbles.

These fountains do not have a container. This gives you the freedom to change a planter, pottery bowl or ceramic pot into the exquisite fountain.  The kit contains tubing, submersible water pump, and bamboo fountain and you will need just 5 minutes to assemble these. You have to set these up on the edge of a container whose diameter is 10” to 20” and its ideal depth should be 6”.

The spout of the fountain is handcrafted from the supple and sleek Tam Vong bamboo. This variety of bamboo is stronger compared to steel by weight. As a result, the chances of its cracking or splitting are much less in comparison to other bamboos. Moreover, since it absorbs less noise, you will get to listen to the relaxing sounds of the water.

It comes with USA-standard 110 V electric pump which is quiet considering its size. But its strength is enviable. The sound of fresh flowing water of the solar water fountain with its varied reverberations like pattering rain, gurgling streams, and crashing waves make the garden atmosphere tranquil and relaxing!

This superb, attractive home for your neighborhood finches and hummingbirds is priced less than $40.00 at the time of writing. If you are still uncertain, why not go through the customer reviews to make the informed choice!

 

 

Are you undecided on the kind of bird bath fountain pump that you would like to put up in your garden to invite your feathered friends? If the thought is really perplexing, read on to find out about the efficacy of the solar bird bath fountain pumps, the factors to be kept in mind while buying one and about one of the best in this alley!

What are Solar Bird Baths and how do they score over the conventional ones?

Solar bird baths are birdbaths that score over their electric or manual counterparts as these save electric power, are more eco-friendly and economical and provide fresh, clean running water that is bound to attract more birds.

Moreover, being less noisy these are preferred by the feathered friends. The only disadvantage is perhaps that these need direct sun rays. But that should not be a difficulty if you are living in a sunny area. The best part is that these baths do not require wiring, outlets or extension cords and are easy to install and have minimal operating costs.

The electrical counterparts have to be placed in areas where the cords can reach and there is every chance of electrocution of both humans and animals. With solar pumps these problems are well-addressed and there are more possibilities as regards placing.

Solar birdbaths have a lot of variety and it becomes a task for any gardener or birder to choose the right one. Factors like construction, design, convenience and many others need to be kept in mind while making the purchase. But you would definitely want to make the perfect choice so that the bath fountain attracts the maximum both in number as well as species. And for the same, a buyer’s guide would be of utmost help, right?

A Solar Bird Bath Fountain Pump Buyer’s Guide

The following factors need to be taken into account before you make your final purchase –
Appearance – The bird bath you choose should match your taste and persona. Only then shall you take good care of it. Also, it should go well with your garden décor and style. That will attract not only the birds but also you and your inner circle whose company you so desire.

The comfort of birds – The models should be so designed that they provide maximum comfort to your feathered friends. It should preferably have a narrow lip so that the birds can easily perch on. Also, the material should provide texture ideal for the tiny talons to hang on to. The perfect basin should be 1-2 inches deep. Some models have basins of both shallow and deep varieties to accommodate different sized birdies.

Height – This is again an important point of consideration. While smaller birds prefer taller baths since they get a better field of view, the bigger varieties are comfortable with ground-level basins.

Design – The designs vary from the pedestal model to hanging birdbath to many other basic designs and the thumb rule for choosing the correct one depends on the place where you intend to put the birdbath. You can’t place the broad pedestal type in a yard with hardly any level zones. Again if you are going for the hanging type, you would need a safe hanging place to suspend it.

Budget – The price of a solar bird bath does have a huge range. So it is for you to fix your budget and choose the best one within that budget. Thankfully birds don’t mind the price issue as long they are able to have a nice, clean dip and sip! If you are very much tied down with your budget you can always try out DIY solar bird bath fountain pumps.

Size – Small birdbaths are convenient to move and easy to clean. But these will not be able to hold a large flock of birdies. The larger ones, on the other hand, will have space for many more birds and the chances for conflict over drink or dip will reduce. But larger baths are tougher to move and clean. Again the water in the larger ones does not dry out as quickly as in the smaller ones and as such these scores better.

Landscape Proportions – Your birdbath should fit your garden both in size as well as visually. The size should be in proportion with your landscape and should not seem out of place. A huge, ornamental birdbath fountain would look odd in a small garden. While if the garden is huge and elaborate, a tiny birdbath would seem lost.

Water Movement – If your birdbath fountain has running water than stagnant water, there will be more feathered visitors. Birds prefer birdbaths having dripper, water spray, mister or bubbler. And those having fountains score topmost. Also, moving water means the growth of algae and insects is minimized and thus the birdbath will remain cleaner even with lesser maintenance.

Cleanliness – Bird baths that have elaborate designs like detailed sculptures or have fragile mosaics are more difficult to clean and protect from damage. Simpler styles are easier to clean and are more durable. Basins made of copper or glazed ones remain cleaner naturally.

Color – Bright colored solar bird baths are preferred as birds get attracted to such colors and swarm the region.

What is the working procedure of a solar birdbath?

A solar panel either placed inside the basin or just outside it gathers solar energy from the sun rays during the daytime. This energy will provide power to the pump so that the water inside the birdbath keeps circulating. Such baths stand a chance of getting damaged during winter months and to prevent the same you may have to remove the solar insert or maybe use it along with a birdbath heater. Such a heater will keep both the unit and the water warm.

Which is better – a single unit or many birdbaths?

If you have a big enough garden, you can go for more than one solar bird bath fountain pump. This will help you choose different baths which will vary in style, size and height and once these are placed in different parts of the garden they will attract birds of different sizes. Each species will get its perfect match and will be more at ease playing, drinking and bathing. Also, competition and crowding will lessen. You will find more thirsty friends coming over to your garden!

Which is the best solar birdbath fountain with battery backup?

If the day is cloudy, solar bird bath fountains with battery backup will be just what you would need. And if you are at a loss as to which is the best in this category, here is our preferred choice:

Solar Fountain Pump for Bird Bath with 800mAh Battery Backup, Free-Standing Portable

This solar bird bath fountain comes from the house of Viajero and is sold by them only. It comes with a strong 2.5W solar panel and 800mAh battery which is long-lasting. The panel and battery work together providing continuous power. This gives stability to the pump throughout the entire day whether it is sunny or cloudy.

The solar panels are of high-quality and are durable being PET laminated. This ensures that the panels do not get deformed or break over the years. All this makes the pump long-lasting.

Viajero-Fountain-Free-Standing-Portable-Floating

This solar bird bath fountain model will fit in ideally in any lawn, garden or patio. The fountain pump floats to the surface of the water, receives the sun rays and starts functioning. It comes with four nozzles each of different patterns.

The birdbath is designed with intelligent circuitry that enables the fountain to perform and spray water constantly even when 3 or 4 of the solar panels get covered by debris.

Again the bath is so well crafted that it will shut off automatically if there is no water or if the pump gets blocked by debris. When the pump sits idle for 15 seconds or is blocked, the pump will stop functioning by itself. This takes care of the safety feature of the birdbath. The pump can be restarted manually or else it will start working all by itself the next morning.

Viajero-Fountain-Free-Standing-Portable-Floating

The specifications are – 3.7V, 800mAh battery, 180L/H max water flow, 6V, 2.5W solar panel, and 50cm max spray height.

The nozzle is to be installed after the normal spraying. This is because air is present inside the pump when it is placed inside the water. If the fountain finds water shortage or is blocked and stops functioning, the pump won’t work and the fountain will not be damaged. It has to be restarted for it to function. The water should be kept clean and the pump should be cleaned every month.

The procedure of restarting this solar pump –

Clean the pump or add water. The solar panel has to be covered completely with a dark cloth for 15 seconds. Then the cloth has to be removed. Thereafter it has to be placed in the water for 15 seconds and the pump will spray water. If it doesn’t, repeat this entire process. Even if it doesn’t work after this, the company is to be consulted.

The product comes with a 30-day refund policy and a 1-year product replacement service. It is currently priced at around $28.00. Wouldn’t you like to go through the experiences of its customers before you finalize your choice?

 

 

The utilities of a mini fridge are enormous – they look more aesthetic, take up less space, can be fitted in patios to provide with all the ice you need for your parties and is just what you need for the hassle-free hospitality of your sudden guests! And if the thought of electricity consumption is a bother, why not give solar power a chance?

How does a mini fridge consume less electricity?

If you are in the habit of opening your fridge very often, you will lose more cold air when you open a regular fridge than a mini fridge. This is so because your mini fridge being mini has a lesser capacity and thus holds less air as compared to the regular fridge.

What is the power consumption of a mini refrigerator?

The power consumption of a small fridge depends on the features, size and manufacturer essentially. But you should also consider the age of the unit. The temperature at which you set the item is important too. As for the features, whether it is the manual defrost type or the auto-defrost kind counts. Also it is always preferable to keep your mini fridge away from any clutter or heat sources otherwise it will spend more energy to keep its contents cool.

If the size of the unit ranges from 1.7 to 4.4 cubic feet and the model has an Energy star rating, it will consume 239.42 kWh every year at the maximum if it is of the manual defrost kind; but if it’s of the partial automatic defrost version, with the same features, it will consume 318.4 kWh yearly.

If you want to calculate the power consumption of your mini fridge, look for the nameplate ratings which are usually found on the inside of the fridge. If it says 4.5A current and 115V (or VAC), then multiply these two quantities and the product, i.e. 517.5W, is the power demand of the appliance.

How many solar panels does your mini fridge need?

Refrigerators do require a lot of power, but with mini fridges and solar power all that is taken care off. The power need depends on quite a lot of factors. The lifestyle of a family is a controlling factor. The amount of food you keep in your fridge, the age of your appliance and the duration for which you keep it open, largely controls the power consumption of your mini fridge. The place you keep your mini fridge is important. It should be far away from sunlight or other heat sources like ovens. The fridge should be kept ¾ full so that it does not have to work extra to keep the empty space cool. Avoid keeping your fridge doors open for long and only place your food inside it once the food has attained room temperature or is cool. It is better to place the fridge in the open than in a cupboard.

The climatic condition of your locality has a say in the amount of energy generated in the solar panels. Though the amount of solar energy produced by a solar panel is highly variable, a singular, extremely efficient solar panel produces 265 watts of solar power on an average. That means the same panel will produce roughly 30 kWh of power every month.

Now that you know the amount of power your mini fridge requires and the amount of solar power an efficient solar panel can generate on an average, you can fairly well calculate the number of solar panels that you would need to power your mini fridge.

But always take into account some wastage that is so common with electrical appliances. A professional solar installer may help you with the calculations to arrive at a more accurate data.

What are the things needed to set up the solar powered mini fridge?

The solar power set up for a mini fridge would require quite a few devices in addition to the solar panels. Firstly you would need batteries which would store the solar power so that you can use it on cloudy days or during nighttime. The next device is the charge controller that will make the flow of current from the panels to the battery smooth and will also protect the batteries from sudden power fluctuations. As a consequence, the batteries receive proper current and voltage. Also, an inverter is needed to change the direct current (DC) power of the battery to the alternating current (AC) power for use of the mini fridge.

You may require certain approvals and certifications typical of your area to satisfy the power utility mandate and electrical code requirements of that place.

What are the specifications of the batteries and the inverter?

A common solar battery for a certain amount of amp-hours usually provides 12 volts of electrical energy. A battery is normally rated taking into account a 20-hour cycle. This means that theoretically one 160 amp-hour battery would provide 8 amps every hour for 20 hours.

Inverters which convert DC battery power to AC power for the usage of the appliances are never 100% efficient. Power is lost during conversions and this power loss can escalate to 50%. So while purchasing an inverter, take note of its efficiency rating. This measure should also be taken into account while deciding the power requirement of your mini fridge.

With so much of information regarding running a mini fridge on solar power at your fingertips, why not learn something about the best solar fridge?

Dometic CFX 40W 12v Electric Powered Portable Cooler, Fridge Freezer

This solar fridge option from the house of Dometic is highly flexible and can refrigerate or freeze upto -7oF (-22oC). There is no need for ice, except making ice for drinks. It is extremely durable coming with reinforced corners, a robust lid lining, stainless steel hinges and a strong closing mechanism enabling it to endure huge loads. The durability does not come in the way of its mobility since this model is extremely lightweight. The power consumption is very low. It uses DC or AC and is thus perfect for solar setups or any other off-grid applications. The energy consumption (DC@5/32oC) is 0.665kWh per day.

The cooling temperature in the compartment may be monitored and controlled by the WiFi app (except the CFX28 and CFX65D). It comes with a 2 year warranty and 3 stage battery protection. The fridge has an outstanding cooling performance even at very ambient temperatures and using minimal power. This model is equally efficient both in freezing and refrigeration. It can operate on 120V AC or 12/24V DC and the appliance comes with both the requisite AC and DC cords. It is perfect for solar operation, operates with minimal noise and comes with digital temperature display and energy-efficient LED interior light. The drain plug makes cleaning easy and the USB port is perfect for charging small electronic devices or smartphones. The cooling compartment is equipped with wire basket that is removable. The memory is able to maintain the preset temperatures even when the system is put off.

At the time of writing, the product was priced around $800.00. Want to check the current price or the customer reviews before you make your final choice?

 

Installing solar panels in your home to become energy efficient and cut down on carbon footprint is a good idea. But the entire process is indeed complicated. And with the endless installation companies offering their services, choosing the one that will meet your requirements perfectly is no mean task. But the follow-up here will probably help you to choose and make your task convenient.

Make a list of solar providers of your area

Right at the onset, you need to make a list of solar providers serving your area and note the particulars of each of these companies. The easiest way to do this is to put up a Google search and suffix the same with the name of your state or city. The list of companies should be exhaustive, including national, local and small ones.

Make your choice – small local company Vs national company?

Before you choose, let’s find out the merits and demerits of each.

The local companies know about the climate of your area, rebates of the state and permits better and work quickly as they deal with a lesser number of customers and within a specified zone. This makes your process of installation smoother and faster. The time factor is very important as it is very much linked with the federal tax credit.

National or larger businesses, on the other hand, will offer more inclusive warranties being better established. Further, they usually come up with more offers for maintenance services and payment modes.

There is no thumb rule here; just find out which one suits your needs better and keep a note.

Know More about the companies – their credentials

Now it’s time you start finding more about the companies. Experience is the keyword here. So your search should concentrate on the number of years it is doing business, the total number of panels it has installed over these years and the kind of surfaces it has worked on with aplomb. You can collect all these data from the website of the companies wherein you may also find the certifications. And if you don’t find any on their site, call them to know about their credentials.

When it comes to credentials, a state license is a must. But the ultimate seal is when the company possesses a NABCEP’s (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) Solar PV Installation Professional Certification. NABCEP certification ensures that the company has achieved the epitome of success in sales and installation and its employees are not only highly qualified but also have undergone an all-embracing training.

Why reviews are important?

Why isn’t certification everything? Why do we need to look for customer reviews? Because this is where you get to see the customer’s point of view. The entire process of solar installation is quite complicated and you need the help of the company almost at every step, right from the size of the solar array to permits applications for state and federal tax credits.

And where do you get these reviews? You may search on sites like Better Business Bureau or Yelp and if no reviews are found therein just call the company for a few references and have a talk with them. Also, you may get leads from friends or neighbors. Once through this process, you will know the ones who would stand by you in the years to come.

Know about the design and brand of the Solar Panel

The installation company must explain the various brands of panels they will use and the merits and demerits of each and the brands should complement your exact needs.

Of the two varieties of solar panels available, the monocrystalline silicon (Si) variety is more efficient, expensive and difficult to manufacture than the polycrystalline (poly-Si) ones. But the efficiency gap is reducing with the improvement in technology.

Ensure company have the necessary insurance and licenses

The company should have general liability insurance and requisite business licenses like electrician, general or home performance or home improvement contracting.

Know the financing options

Each company will have its own financing options, right from taking loan to paying in cash or leasing or signing power purchase agreement (PPA) and should be able to explain each to make your choice easier. A company might offer all of these or a combination of some. If you know the finance option you want to go for choosing those companies which offer it. But if you are not sure about your own choices, it is better to select those companies which offer many finance options.

Is the company willing to visit your home?

This is very important because only when they visit your home, you can get information on topics like – whether solar panels would be apt for your home, how you can save energy and make your home energy efficient, the pricing and much more. In one word, they will be able to customize the installation according to your home and requirement assessing your property, current energy usage, and future needs.

What should be the ideal period of warranty?

The period of warranty should normally hover around something like 20 years. Many companies also offer one to ten years workmanship warranty. Solar equipment has additional warranties and other components like the inverter also have warranties. Check these out before entering into any agreement.

How about the quotation?

With all these data at your fingertip, it is time you narrow down your search to four or five companies. Now you can ask for a custom quote from each of them. At this juncture, they would usually visit your home and you get the chance to clear off any doubts you have pertaining to the number of panels required, handling of state and city permits, the procedure to be followed, other extra costs and warranty. Once you are done with the talking and gone through the quotes scrupulously (it should be all-inclusive), I believe you will know which company to go for.

But be careful in case some company is trying to hurry the deal or offering abnormal discounts. These are sale tactics that would cost you dear in the long run!

 

With the abundance of sunlight, utilizing it optimally not only reduces carbon footprint but it also does away with the worry of dwindling natural resources like coal and petroleum. Installation of solar panels is bound to satiate your energy requirements and cut down your energy costs. It can indeed prove to be a good investment.

But before you go ahead with the installation, find out the suitability of your rooftop for this purpose. Here are 7 questions you need to answer before deciding to install solar panels on your roof.

1. What Is The Style of Your Roof?

The ideal shape of the roof for installation of solar panels is rectangular. But finding an exact rectangular roof is next to impossible. Structures like chimneys, turrets, dormers, and skylights are commonplace on most rooftops.
But you need not worry about this too much as the companies involved in the installation process are professional and equipped enough to deal with these impediments. Not only these obstructions, they know how to move drain pipes to facilitate the panels.

2. What Is The Slope of the Roof?

This is again a very important criterion and here the installer may provide you with the necessary guidance. A flat arrangement has the demerit of slow precipitation run-off, that is, precipitation in any form will not flow off easily and this, in turn, will reduce the efficiency of the solar panels.

On the other hand, if you set it too steep, the panels would receive much less sunlight and thereby decreased energy production. The optimal slope is a twenty or thirty-degree tilt but at times this angle becomes steeper if you live north.

3. What Is The Roof Direction?

There is a general rule that states that the solar panels should face the direction the earth’s equator is in. This means that the houses in the Northern Hemisphere should have their panels facing south and vice versa. Even south-east or south-west will do fine for the houses in the northern half of the globe.

You may also opt for east or west-facing panels; while one will work better in the first part of the day the second will work well for during the second half. Just be careful to do away with all sorts of obstruction in this kind of arrangement.

4. What Is The Size of the Roof?

The larger the size of the rooftop the better. Over here, the surface area of the rooftop counts. To get an idea, 100 square feet of rooftop will yield 1 kW solar power. Sheds and garages may also be utilized for installing solar panels depending upon amount of sun rays they receive and their sturdiness to hold such installations.

5. What Is the Material of the Roof?

When it comes to type of material, the best-suited for solar panels is asphalt shingles. Also, rooftops made of materials like clay tiles, rubber, standing seam, and corrugated metal are suited for solar installation. Any kind of durable and strong material if used for rooftops is ideal for setting up panels.

But if your roof is made of wood shingles or clay, installation is a tough task as these materials, being brittle, are not able to endure the huge load of the installation. But, then, don’t lose heart! The professionals just know the type of equipment elements and mounting machinery to use to install solar panels on such rooftops.

6. How Much Sun Exposure Does the Roof Gets?

According to me, since we are discussing solar power, this criterion is possibly the most important one. The more sunlight your roof gets the better would be the energy production. It would be perfect if your entire roof receives direct sunlight from nine in the morning to three in the afternoon and that too throughout the year. You may consult insolation maps available at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory to get an idea of the amount of sunlight received by your locality.

You must also be careful regarding obstructions that might hinder sunlight from reaching your rooftop. These barriers might be chimneys or tall, neighboring buildings or trees. These hindrances will lessen energy production. Also, the length and duration of shadows are bigger during winter. Just to make sure about the amount of sun exposure your rooftop is to receive during winter, you may take the guidance of an acclaimed solar installation company.

7. What is the Condition of the Roof?

Before you start with any sort of installation, find out the condition of your rooftop. If it is in need of repair just at this moment or will require the same in the next few years, go for the repair and get the work done before starting the installation.

This is because most of these installations come with warranties for many years and they usually stand the test of time. And you would not like to pull down these installations just for the repair work of your roof as the companies will charge you every time they set-up and bring-down. So only if you feel your roof is going to stand strong for another fifteen years, go ahead with the installation of the solar panels.

Home Regulations

If such is the case that your home is governed by any homeowners association (HOA), you will probably have to abide by the rules and regulations set by them as they are the ones instrumental in planning the outer structure of the homes in your neighborhood. So pore through the regulations of the HOA and then decide for yourself.

You will be in a similar soup if you are staying in a rented house. You will need to get the consent of your landlord before you can go ahead with your plan of solar panel installation.