How does solar power work? In just one hour, the sun delivers more energy to our planet than the entire population uses in a year. We are just beginning to scratch the surface of solar power potential. As solar panels pop up across the US, more and more people are wondering how they work. Will installing panels on your home save you money? Or benefit the environment? The simple answer to both questions is yes. But let’s slow down a bit and first look at the basic process of creating solar energy. In a Nutshell: How Does Solar Power Work The answer to the question "How does solar power work?" begins with solar panels. Most solar panels are made of two layers of silicon. One layer has silicon plus a material that will create a negative charge, and the other layer has silicon plus a material that will create a positive charge. When the silicon layers are activated by sunlight, the opposing charges in the layers form an electric field. The collected energy is a direct … [Read more...] about How Does Solar Power Work?
Home Maintenance Tips for Spring and Summer
Here's you list of home maintenance tips for spring and summer to get your home and homestead looking sharp. Winter weather can be harsh on your house. The good thing about warmer months is that you get to take care of your home while enjoying the sun. So, now is the time to prevent unexpected problems and do home maintenance. Follow our list of home maintenance tips – spring and summer edition – to get the most out of this season. Home Maintenance Tips: Check The AC Unit Ideally, you should check your AC unit monthly and replace air filters at least once every three months. Dirty air filters can only cause you harm. The unit has to work harder, and it can lead to increased energy bills and potentially damage your equipment. Also, make sure the insulation of your home is installed and functioning properly. You don’t want the warm air or cool air to escape through windows and roof. If you’re not sure what type of insulation fits your needs, check insulation4less to … [Read more...] about Home Maintenance Tips for Spring and Summer
2020 Green Thumb Awards Honor New Plants and Garden Products
The winners of the 2020 Green Thumb Awards have been announced, and a total of six new plants and products have taken home the “green” trophy. Here are this year’s winners: Clematis ‘Lady Kyoko’ from Spring Hill Nurseries European Beech InstantHedge from InstantHedge KangaRhu Rhubarb from Gurneys Seed Treasure Island Sweet Potatoes from Concept Plants Garden Tutor Online Course and Kit from Botaniworld Vertex Wall Trellis from Gardener’s Supply Company The DGA Green Thumb Awards are presented by the Direct Gardening Association (DirectGardeningAssociation.com), a trade group of companies that sell gardening plants and products through catalogs and websites. Winners of the 2020 Green Thumb Awards were chosen by independent judges. 2020 Green Thumb Award Winners: Ornamental Plants and Seeds Division Clematis ‘Lady Kyoko’ (Clematis x ‘Lady Kyoko’) Spring Hill Nurseries Clematis ‘Lady Kyoko’ is a variety that … [Read more...] about 2020 Green Thumb Awards Honor New Plants and Garden Products