Choosing the right size depends on the level of energy independence that a renewable energy owner wants. It may simply boil down to what you can afford. These levels range from 100 percent or completely off the grid (the most costly), to a simple energy backup for emergencies.

100% energy independence or completely off the grid: this requires a huge investment in terms of generation and storage. In addition, it may require other power sources such as fossil fuels or wind generators.

High energy independence: This requires a solar system with enough batteries to last a few days or even through the winter. PV systems are sized to enable the owner to have surplus energy to store during summer and be self-sufficient through winter without relying too much on the grid. The customer will still rely on the grid for backup just in case there are prolonged days of bad weather.

Summertime independence: Customer installs just enough panels and storage capacity to get through a normal summer day but will have to draw power from the grid during the winter.

Peak time independence: Battery size should be large enough to supply power during peak times when electricity rates are highest.

Reduced reliance on the grid during peak times: Some customers cannot afford to install enough storage to cover their entire peak time usage. In such a case, some will install a system that will enable them to at least reduce part of their grid usage during these times.

Emergency power backup: This requires smaller energy storage, enough to cover a short power outage. Some customers use this together with fuel generators. Battery storage is only required for the short duration from the time grid power goes out, to when the alternative power becomes available.

Even though a solar energy system is a great investment that reduces your electricity bills, it is not possible to completely get off the grid without investing in large storage systems. However, adding modest battery storage to a grid connected to solar systems is a better way of increasing your independence from the grid without spending too much.

Most marketers have online tools that can help you get the right size battery based on various factors. However, it is advisable to consult professionals for the best advice.

Customers with solar systems are increasingly adding battery storage to reduce their electricity costs or become independent from the grid. With better technology and prices getting lower every day, battery storage is becoming an appealing component to many solar power system owners.

This type of storage allows the customer to charge their batteries during the day and then discharge them when there is no generation. This permits homeowners and businesses to have a backup power source and save on electricity bills. In addition, you can sail through cloudy periods or other times when power generation is low.

Almost 2/3rd of Americans decorate there home with some sort of electric lights during the holiday season.  Over half require the use of some sort of extension cord and or power splitter during there holiday lighting decoration process.  The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Reports that Christmas tree fires alone cause on average an estimated $16.2 million in direct property damage, 16 injuries, and 6 deaths every year.  This statistic does not include injures or deaths due to outdoor lighting electric shock or fall injuries such as ladder work.

Whether you have a spacious and expansive wraparound porch or a cozy stoop to welcome you inside, the front porch is the perfect place to establish a mood that flows throughout the home. Today I’ve rounded up a unique collection of front porch decorating ideas that celebrate the beauty of Spring with bright colors and endless charm.

Springtime is all about freshness and a world ablaze with color. This bright DIY welcome mat filters out both the dirt and the troubles of your day.

I’m a big fan of coming up with Etsy.)

Unique ways to display a bounty of your Spring flowers abound in these fresh front porch planter ideas that are anything but predictable.

via submersible LED tape lights to your water feature.

As you welcome your friends and family into your home this year, there are many ways to welcome Spring too. Small touches and pops of color are simple ways to turn your front porch into a bright and cheerful space to invite guests into the home.

These days’ computers exist in our homes within one form or another. These machines are quite valuable and expensive, and damaging them is not a good feeling. As computers run on electricity, improper use and function can result in electrical related damage. Keep these following simple tips in mind when working with your computers.

We have previously talked about the proper use of extension cords in the past, but this is especially applicable for computers. Extension cords are not meant to be a permanent solution when it comes to placing your computer away from an electrical socket. An extension cord can hinder surge protection and make the computer vulnerable to shocks that can damage the computer hardware.

If you have a computer, laptop, or monitor, the power cord likely has three prongs. These are not suggestions. Too many times people will try to fit these cords into two-prong sockets. The button prong that only appears on some cords is actually the grounding cable. This protects us from electrical currents that can spread to the metal casing surrounding the computer. If the grounding prong is not connected properly, you are risking a chance of serious electric shock.

Electricity powers computer hardware, but too much of it can damage the components. With a GCFI outlet you add another layer of protection to your devices. If there is an electrical storm or problem with your home electrical system and a surge occurs, you can rest assured that it will not reach your devices.

If you have an office setup that includes a monitor, computer, and printer a surge protector is highly recommended. The surge protector will shut off when a surge is detected and protect the electrical devices. Make sure that you know the load that the electrical devices have and check that both your electrical circuit and surge protector are rated for that load. If not, you will find the surge protector or breaker tripping constantly.

If you are setting up an office with computer hardware and electrical equipment, or require GCFI outlets in your home, contact your local Expert Electric. We can help to review your setup and provide you with solutions to keep you and your hardware safe.