October 17, 2010

Honolulu, HI - October is National Energy Awareness Month, and people nationwide are doing things to make their homes more energy efficient. Installing photovoltaic (PV) panels is one important step homeowners can take to lower energy costs, reduce their impact on the environment, and help create a sustainable energy future for Hawaii.

Taking a few simple steps before making the investment, however, will ensure that you maximize your savings and have the peace of mind of knowing your system will be running smoothly for years to come.

• Do an inventory of your home. Are there other steps you can take to maximize your energy savings? Consider buying a solar water heater, Energy-Star appliances, compact florescent light (CFL) bulbs, and heat-reducing window shades or film. These steps can make a big difference by themselves, or in combination with a PV system.
  
  
• Learn about new technologies and incentives by attending an open house, seminar or workshop. The Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative is a great source of information on new technologies, energy policies and solar energy-related events.  Many companies, like American Electric, often hold open houses at customers’ homes so you can get all your questions answered by the pros.
  
  
• Do some research on companies before making a decision. The PV/Solar industry is booming right now and there are new companies launching every day, hoping to make a quick buck. Make sure the company you select will be around in the years to come to honor their warranty and service your PV/Solar system.
  
  
• Ask a potential PV installer the following questions: How long have they been in business? Can they show you customer referrals? How quickly will your project be scheduled and completed? Do they offer financing incentives?
  
  
• Finally, get your current electrical wiring thoroughly examined. Is it up to code? Have you added air conditioning or room extensions that might be stressing your system? PV systems are essentially mini power plants, so you want to be sure your existing wiring can handle the additional electrical load.  American Electric, for example, offers a special PV package that includes CurrentSAFE, a unique electrical hazard detection service. CurrentSAFE technicians utilize infrared and ultrasonic equipment to detect hidden weaknesses in your electrical system. They also provide advice on how to fix potential issues, such as a flickering light fixture, before they become hazardous. While most companies may suggest just changing the fixture, American Electric’s CurrentSAFE technicians go deeper, getting to the root cause of the problem.

Going solar is a great way to quickly reduce your home’s energy consumption and costs. Making sure it’s done right means fewer headaches and ongoing savings for years to come. “We’ve been in business for more than 65 years, and we’ve noticed the recent rapid growth in PV companies,” says Ray Hose’, president of American Electric. “Not all of them have the track record or expertise to ensure that your system is installed and maintained correctly. It’s a good idea to get to know the company you’re going to trust to install your system.” 

To learn more, call 440-5098 (toll free 877-440-5098), or visit American Electric’s website at www.AmericanElectricHomes.com. 

This article first appeared in the Honolulu Star-Advertiser's Hawaii RENOVATION, October 17, 2010.