How To Find The Right Niche With Video Marketing

How To Find The Right Niche With  Video Marketing

One great choice for the promotion of your company is video marketing. But to utilize this marketing method effectively, you must have the proper knowledge. This article has helpful tips to boost your income and business using video marketing.

It is a good way to find out what customers want from you. Ask customers to email you with questions about what you offer, or questions about industry topics, and answer the questions you like best in a weekly video. You can even reward people for asking good questions by offering them a free product or a discount.

Focus on a certain topic and choose a descriptive title filled with keywords. More viewers will be interested in your videos if the titles make sense and attract their attention. They will be more likely to watch. A creative title can really help to drive viewers to your site.

Make sure you understand that making your videos is only half the battle. You have to also promote your videos. Proper marketing efforts create a ten-fold increase in how many clicks you get. Good videos are important, but so is good marketing.

One of the most popular reasons for browsing the Internet is to locate information on how to accomplish one task or another. When creating tutorial videos, those interested in your topic find your videos. Once they see you're an expert, they'll want to see what else you have to offer.

Encourage others involved with the business to participate in your video marketing. Your video spokesperson must speak clearly, project a trustworthy air and be at ease in front of the camera. Do not shy away from using multiple personalities in videos.

When you produce a video, always ask your viewers to do something. This is a "call-to-action" tactic. As an example, if you'd like your viewers to subscribe to a newsletter, request that they click a link provided in the description of the video. The easier it is for people to sign up, the faster your mailing list will grow.

Fresh content is important. Boring content will only drive away customers and hurt your business. Let your viewers wait a while so that they're anxious to see the things you came up with. Keep your content fresh and interesting, and this will keep your viewers coming back.

Don't skip over the video content analytics. You can tell so many different things from the statistics that are provided. Tap into the well of unknown customers by using the information provided by this data.

You should also put a greeting in your video. Start by saying who you are, your company, and what your video will be about. To finish, say the company name again and craft calls to action so that viewers will go to your site and make a purchase.

It has already been mentioned that video marketing is a wonderful way to help get your business off the ground. You have to know how to really make the most out of this technique in order to reap the benefits. By using the tips you learned in this article, you can greatly increase your ability to succeed with this technique.

Easy But Effective Tricks To Video Marketing Success

Easy But Effective Tricks To Video Marketing Success

A very effective method of promoting your business and increasing your profit margins is video marketing. You need to have great information on strategies before trying to use video marketing yourself. This article has plenty of smart tips for video marketing, so that you can make the most of this fantastic method.

Don't be intimidated by the concept of video marketing. All you need is a tripod and quality camera to make videos yourself. There are several things you can do on video including product demonstrations and talking about how the product in question is made.

Your campaign will be more successful if you make more videos. You need to produce new videos constantly so that you give your customers the content they expect. Also, this helps you speak about topics viewers may want to know more about.

The content of your video plays an essential role in its success. You can make great videos without a top-quality camera. People will watch and share a video as long as the content is excellent. Still, you want to buy the best camera you can afford.

YouTube should not be ignored. Many times videos begin here. You can have your videos somewhere for free. YouTube is viewed by more people than most other websites, it has the third highest viewership of any website. YouTube is the most trafficked site for videos, and the second most for searches. Don't underestimate it!

Create videos to demonstrate different features and uses for your products. You will help your existing customers use their product more efficiently and show potential customers what your products look like and what they can do.

Your content needs to be interesting. It should be entertaining and/or newsworthy. A video hosting site can increase viewers for your video, but an uninteresting video will defeat the purpose. Everyone is looking for useful information, not a simple commercial. The more interesting and engaging your videos, the more likely you will be to see sustained growth and increases in traffic.

If you need to go to some kind of public event for your business, take along a camera. You might get some great footage from a expert in the area, or you can just show cool innovations that you see there. You need to make sure your public talks are recorded, too.

Do not try to do it all yourself. It is challenging to find new approaches and ideas for consistent video marketing. Getting input from other people is a great way to come up with new and useful ideas. Try to ask for ideas often to help you stay on top.

You should use video marketing in order to give your customers a look into your world. Show your individuality by showing what goes on behind the scenes, or share how your products are made with your customers. This will provide everyone with a more personable side to your business.

Video marketing can be of great benefit to you. Take full advantage of the tips that have been laid out for you here. Why start video marketing tomorrow when you can start today?

Perfect Coffee Tips For The Perfect Brew

Perfect Coffee Tips For The Perfect Brew

Whether you like it strong or prefer it mild, there is no substitute for a great cup of coffee. Keep reading if you are interested in learning everything there is to know about coffee. You'll find excellent coffee tips here.

If you love coffee but are considered about your weight, then add some Stevia in your coffee rather than sugar or creams. Stevia is all natural and sweetens better than sugar without the glucose. You can find this at the grocery store.

When you are making a coffee pot, wait until the last minute to grind your beans. Coffee beans begins losing its flavor as soon as it is ground. Grinding your coffee beans in advance will result in weaker-tasting coffee.

Be careful about the type of water you utilize when preparing your coffee. Coffee made with terrible tasting water is not going to taste right itself. You will want to brew with water that has minerals in it instead of distilled water. If you do not use water with a mineral count, you may not like the taste.

Putting food and drinks in the freezer makes them keep longer, but there's a limit to this. For coffee, three months is about the longest it can stay frozen. Beyond that point, the quality and flavor of the coffee will slowly deteriorate.

A coffee grinder goes a long way toward making a great cup of coffee. When you grind your coffee beans right before you brew, it will help retain the flavorful oils that result in a fresher tasting cup. Generally, grinders will allow you to pre-select how coarse you want your beans ground. If you do not want to buy an additional product, simply search for coffee makers that have grinders.

Certain coffee blends depend on the origin of the bean. Try out different brands for a while to find one that you love. Price should not influence your decision since you might get more energy from a certain blend and not need to drink as much coffee as you would with a weaker blend.

For the best tasting coffee possible, use freshly roasted beans. Always look at the expiration and roast dates of whole beans that you buy. It's best to buy coffee beans from specialty stores or coffee shops instead of your grocery market.

You can froth milk to put in your coffee without spending tons on a special appliance. Heat your milk in microwaves to achieve this affect. Whisk the milk by turning the whisk between your palms vigorously. Continue whisking until the milk is frothy. Avoid skim and 1 percent milk for the best foam.

Do you find it hard to brew a rich cup of coffee, like what you can get at a coffee shop? You might need to use more coffee. Most specialty houses use 6 ounces of water for every 2 tablespoons of coffee. Experiment with ratios and quantities until you find the perfect flavor and keep in mind that you might have to adapt the ratio to the blend you are using.

Now that you have learned so much about coffee, it is time to use those skills. Begin your day with some strong coffee or finish it with milder flavors. No matter what, you're now equipped with the information you need to start enjoying your coffee.

Ready To Ditch The Chemicals And Added Sugar In Store-Bought Juice Yet? Read Here!

Ready To Ditch The Chemicals And Added Sugar In Store-Bought Juice Yet? Read Here!

Consider juicing for a vitamin-packed nutritional boost to your active lifestyle. This article contains everything you need to know before you start juicing.

If you are going to make your own apple juice, be sure to pick out the ripest and sweetest apples possible. Apples with bruises or blemishes are fine, but cut these parts out before juicing. Apples like Fuji, Rome, Gala, and Red Delicious are sweet tasting and make for great juices.

Drink your juice slowly to fully enjoy its flavor. Pay attention to all the different flavors by drinking juices slowly. Let saliva mix with your juice in order to begin digestion.

If your children do not like to eat vegetables because of their look or taste, try juicing them. A lot of children do not like vegetables. Juicing fruit and vegetables in one drink will give you children a tasty, nutritional option.

It is helpful to store your juicer on the kitchen counter or anywhere in plain sight. This ensures it's available and ready to go at all times. Juicing will not become a daily habit if you do not have access to your juicer easily.

Before you begin juicing, do research on the fruits and vegetables you are going to use. There are a lot of variances in the nutrients that are found in each of the fruits and veggies. Try getting the most of your juice by blending a variety of nutrients together. You will provide yourself with the nutrients you need while also creating new, possibly tasty, blends.

Coffee filters can be used to reduce the amount of pulp that gets into the juice you make. Only use a filter, of course, if you find the pulp unpleasant and would prefer it not be in your juice. Try pouring the juice through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter. This should remove the majority of the pulp.

Don't buy a juicer that is hard to get apart for cleaning. If your juicer is time consuming to assemble and clean, you are less likely to use it on a regular basis. If you do not clean the juice immediately after each use, the pulp may dry out and become difficult to clean.

To fight against any type of bladder or urinary tract problem, you should mix up some cranberries into any juice recipe you're drinking. When you experience problems, use them immediately.

Pay attention to the cues your body will provide you regarding what you drink. Many people have trouble with some juices and can react badly. If a certain juice causes you to feel queasy or have any stomach churning, look at its ingredients to figure out if anything is rarely eaten or new in the ingredients. Then next time you make the same juice, put in a little less of the new ingredient to let your body get accustomed to it.

Get all the daily nutrition you need, plus some, without having to sacrifice time. You can create great tasting juices that give you all of the nutrients of servings of fruits and vegetables without having to eat them.

By using the information in this article, you can become one of the many people who enjoy juices on a daily basis.

Excellent Source Of Great Tips To Help With Video Marketing

Excellent Source Of Great Tips To Help With Video Marketing

You will be able to grow your online business greatly. The key to success with video marketing is proper research. This article will provide you with helpful video marketing tips you can use to make your business and income flourish.

If you make more videos, the better it is for you. Posting new videos all the time will draw people to your site to see what new stuff you put up. This will help to draw in different types of viewers, thus giving your business much more exposure.

You can't possibly think that customers are going to watch lengthy videos and stay interested. When showing your viewers how a particular product works, then you can use up to the twenty-minute allotted time to showcase all the features. But, if you plan to just talk with viewers about a promotional sale or provide new information, your video ought not be longer than 10 minutes.

Omit any information that is off-topic or not important. It is easy to veer off topic when you have not prepared properly. Write down what your video will contain and stick to it. Being focused is going to help you have video marketing success.

Write a script for the intro and outro for your video. To start, you should identify yourself and your company, and the purpose of the video. At the end, go over your company's name again with any call to action you have to get your viewer to your website or to where they can buy the product.

Make use of marketing videos as a way to teach customers about your specific business. Video taping the effort that goes into making your products will give consumers a behind-the-scenes look at your operations that they'll appreciate. People will appreciate the intimate look into your business.

Make video responses to frequently asked questions. Sometimes webmasters will make a separate FAQ page on their website. Another alternative is to produce a video that answers these questions. By doing this, your customers don't have to read over your website if they don't want to. They can choose the learning method they desire.

You should always tell your customers how to find you on social media in your videos. A YouTube user who finds your videos might not know about your brand and will appreciate being told that you have a blog or a website with more information. Share your information across multiple sites for increased traffic. You can boost traffic and grow profits by linking social media sites and video sites.

It is better to have shorter length videos. Do not let your videos go longer than 3 minutes, because otherwise you might start losing viewers along the way. In some instances, it is acceptable to extend the duration to around five minutes. Anything longer than that should be reconsidered. Try to engage your viewer by making your video short and to the point.

It has already been mentioned that video marketing is a wonderful way to help get your business off the ground. Nonetheless, if you don't know the right way to make the best use of this technique well, it will not be helpful to your business. Make use of what you've learned here to find great success.

Advice For Creating A Solid Video Marketing Campaign

Advice For Creating A Solid Video Marketing Campaign

You've probably heard of video marketing, but you may not know what it is. Basically, it's using videos online to market a product or a service. It is a great way to get your products out there. The article that you're about to read is going to go over the basics.

Video marketing allows you to stay in better touch with your targeted customer base. Have customers supply you with questions to answer in a weekly video. You should try giving away some freebees to customers that ask questions.

Do not spend a lot of money on video production for marketing content. You won't get a lot of views just because you spent a lot of money producing something. Some of Dell's best promotions have been made by ordinary employees.

You do not necessarily need strong production values in order to have an effective video. Professional gear isn't required if the picture is in focus and properly balanced. You do not even need a really fancy script or excessive levels of confidence. Relax, turn towards the camera and talk naturally. You may not even have to do that. You can also use pictures or PowerPoint slides if you do not want to appear in your videos.

Make interesting content. Business videos can be interesting, fun, or newsworthy. Uploading your videos to YouTube will lead to increases in traffic, but only if the videos are worthwhile. People need videos that contain substance, nobody enjoys watching long commercials. Interesting videos ensure increased traffic numbers.

Always include a question in each video. This is better known as the "call to action". For instance, if you would like viewers to subscribe to your newsletter, guide them to a link you've given them in the description of the video. You just have to make the process easy for them.

Everyone is looking for honesty. The topic of your video should be something that holds your interest and believe can last. Being natural or authentic can help viewers enjoy the videos and keep coming back for more from you.

You can employ video marketing to make your business successful. Show how the product is made or the service is done. Your customers will enjoy this personal little glimpse into your business.

Use videos for promoting your websites or social media. Someone that comes across your Youtube videos might not know that you are on Facebook, too. Draw attention to your other campaigns so customers can subscribe to the campaign that is adapted to their needs and habits. When you link your social media to your videos, traffic will increase to both.

Buy a tripod if don't already have one. Videos that look shaky are only appropriate for horror films or films of an avant garde nature. However, for the purposes of marketing, keep your shots steady and smooth. It takes only a matter of seconds for your viewer to determine the value of your clip.

Video marketing can be a great and easy way to increase your audience. When you take this article's advice, you'll find that you can attract more people to your business. Use these ideas when you are going to make a video for marketing.

Coffee Advice That Everyone Needs To Hear

Coffee Advice That Everyone Needs To Hear

It can be very difficult to brew your own coffee but it will be worth it. If you want the perfect cup of coffee but have no idea how to get there, the task may very well seem impossible. You need a grinder, coffee machine, a good pot, etc. Use the tips in this article to help you figure out how to get the best cup of coffee every day.

After purchasing coffee beans, wait until you're ready to brew a pot of coffee before you grind them. The coffee can have a reduction in flavor once this process begins. By grinding your coffee well ahead of time, you will find yourself drinking weaker and less flavorful coffee.

Try spicing up coffee for your guests by getting creative. If so, explore the possibilities of adding a personal touch to your drinks. You just need a little time to start achieving floral and heart designs that will delight guests. Mix melted chocolate and milk so you can practice when you make coffee.

Does your coffee taste the way you want it to? It can taste better if you preheat the machine and only add water. Once you heat up the water, start over with your coffee grounds. This method is an excellent way of maintaining your machine.

If you purchase coffee beans, do not store them in their original packaging if it has been opened. Instead, put them in an airtight container. You will be able to use them over a longer period of time this way.

A wide range of coffees are now available. Some people prefer the full flavor of dark roast, and others prefer a flavor that is mild and smooth. Some like flavored coffees, and some coffees are quite sweet. Or, you can change the flavor through creamers and other additions.

If you need to cut back on sugar in your diet, you can use other sweeteners. There are artificial sweeteners but you can also go natural and use agave nectar. Stevia and Splenda also work well to sweeten coffee.

If you are after that perfect cup of coffee, you owe it to yourself to buy a French press. French presses squeeze out the oils that flavor coffee. Traditional coffee makers tend to prevent such wonderfully-flavored oils from reaching the cup.

Buying a cup of joe from a coffeeshop might seem expensive, but it's an occasional luxury. You can choose from a variety of flavors and toppings, such as whipped cream or chocolate.

The taste of your coffee is dependent of the origin of the beans. Experiment with many blends and brands to become a true aficionado. Price should not influence your decision since you might get more energy from a certain blend and not need to drink as much coffee as you would with a weaker blend.

It should be enjoyable to make coffee. However, the process to make coffee can be grueling. The equipment you need could make the process more complicated. But, there is no need for it to be this way. Take the ideas here and use them to enjoy your coffee routine.

International Calling cards

Incase of connections issues Please contact the customer services number written on your card.

If in case the access numbers are busy, we suggest you to hang up and try again after a few moments. If there are any problems on the connection or credit on the PIN, please do not hesitate to call any of the customer service numbers.When you call the customer services number, you will be asked for the PIN number too.

For all connection problems, please call the customer care
number immediately.

We are resellers to end user customers. For this reason, if you have any problem with a phone card / calling card, you must contact Customer Service Department of each card.  Ideally this should be done immediately, or at worse case within 48 hours of the fault being discovered. Generally, unless otherwise stated, cards are non-refundable and expire 3 months(7 days for £1 cards) from date of first use or on the expiration date printed on the card, whichever occurs first. No refund or replacement is provided for lost, stolen or expired cards or unauthorized use

Thanks

property lost

property lost

We are not responsible for property lost or  stolen here.

Please take care of your personal property and take it with you when you leave the premises.

Thanks

Beautiful Essaouira, Morocco

Essaouira, Morocco Beach 

My favorite beach destination 

Essaouira, Morocco

Turkish Red Lentil Soup

Turkish Red Lentil Soup 

Ingredients:
· Red Lentils washed – 2 cups
· Large Onion – 1
· Carrot – 1
· Tomato Paste – 1 dessert spoon
· Cumin – 1 teaspoon
· Praprika – 1 teaspoon
· Red Pepper Flakes – 1/2 teaspoon
· Beef Stock or Veg Stock Cube – 1
· Mint dried – 1 to 2 teaspoons
· Thyme Kekik – 1 to 2 teaspoons
· Salt and Pepper – Season for Taste
· Water – 1 to 1/2 litres
· Olive Oil or your preferred oil – 1 desert spoon
Instructions:
Start by heating oil
Add chopped Onions and Carrot and cook until soft.
Add  the Cumin, Paprika and Red pepper flakes  mix into your onion and carrot mix. Then add in your red lentils and mix together.
Allow lentils to cook for a few  minutes.
Add your choice of stock
Pour your water over your mixture.  Then add in your tomato paste and mix through.  Allow your soup to come to the boil allow to boil for 3 to 5 minutes then reduce to simmer.  Simmer for about 30 mins or until your lentils have turned to a pulp (mushy).
 Then add in your mint and thyme (you can use oregano if you prefer).  Then season to taste.
Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and mint on top with some nice crusty bread.

CURRICULUM VITAE Sample

sample political science CV (resume)

CURRICULUM VITAE

Personal details:

Name:                            Said said Al Bargash

Mail Address:                   1 new road , Tuareg Desert, 57326

Phone:                             075488887651

Email:                              xxxx@saidsaid.com

Sex:                                Male

Marital Status:                  Married

Date of Birth:                    01/01/1949

Language Acquaintance:    Arabic and English

Education:

1996-2001: Msc Political Science (GPA 3.72/4)

                 Academic of Higher Studies, Tripoli Libya

1990- 1994: Bsc Political Science (C Grade)

                  Alfath University, Tripoli Libya

Work Experience:

Sept 2001- July 2006: senior Lecturer, Naser Nations University (Tarhona, Libya) and Al-fateh University (Tripoli- Libya)

Sept 1995- Sept 1996: Demonstrator in Department Of Political Science, Naser Nations University (Tarhona- Libya)

Research Experience:

Msc thesis entitled The Arabic National Security

Supervising Students in their Graduation Seminars & Researches

Writing some articles in the journal of Al-fateh University

Skills:

Proven ability to work under pressure

Ability to work well independently and as part of a team

Good experience in private commercial business

Interests:

Sports, mainly watching and playing football

Travelling

Reading

To participate in the scientific and academic activities, along with working in the political and diplomatic institutions         

Naro Moru River Lodge

Alliance Naro Moru River Lodge

Set in the shadow of Mt. Kenya, the Alliance Naro Moru River Lodge is an exquisite study of greenery and tranquility. Imagine waking up in the morning to the beautiful sight of the snow-capped peaks of Mt Kenya, stepping out of your cozy cabin with a crackling fire in the fireplace, taking a deep breath of the crisp mountain air and going for a walk along the Naro Moru river. Sounds like your dream vacation? It is!

Located on the outskirts of the Naro Moru township, the Alliance Naro Moru River Lodge is an ideal getaway for couples and families as well as for those who want to take a relaxing break from the punishing pace of everyday life. Also, if you’re in Kenya to climb Mt. Kenya, then you’re in the right place. Spend a night at the lodge, acclimatize yourself and enjoy your last night in comfort before you undertake the grueling journey to the peaks of the mountain! 

Ryanair flight cost gone wrong

Ryanair flight cost gone wrong

So a while back as i was booking a flight from East Midlands to Lodz, Poland i got a shock when the total cost of the flight came to over £3000 

The outgoing Journey for two was £137.34 and the return was £91.98 but Ryanair website added it up to £3496.32!!!

Luckily i noticed before i even attempted to pay...

check it out yourself

have experienced similar website Glitches before?

potato and chick peas samosa

SHINGARA (potato and chick peas samosa)
All purpose flour – 2 cups
Oil – 4 tablespoons
Salt – to taste
1/2 tsp kalonji/onion seeds
Water – 1/2 cup 

Put the flour and salt in a bowl and 1/2 tsp kalonji seeds(black seeds) and Mix well.
Add oil and rub with your finger till the oil is incorporated with the flour until you get an crumbly texture.
Then slowly add water and knead into smooth dough. Do not add all the water at a time.
Apply some oil on the dough ball and cover it. Keep it side for 15 minutes 

For the filling:
1/2 can chick peas
4 medium potatoes cubes
2 medium onions chopped thinly
1 bay leaf
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp panch puran powder or you can use the whole. If you don't have panch puran use curry powder.
1/2 tsp kalongi seeds
1 1/2 tsp salt 
2 chopped chilli
1/2 cup chopped coriander 
1/2 cup oil for cooking.

Heat the oil and add the kalongi seeds
Add the onions and fry for 3 mins.
Add the bay leaf, panch puran, turmeric and salt. 
Stir for 2 mins on high 
Add the potatoes and stir on high for five mins.
Add the chick peas and stir for another two minutes. 
Cover and cook on slow until the potatoes are mushy soft.
Add the chopped chilli and coriander stir and take of heat and leave to cool down completely before filling.

Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. 
Roll it out gently in to circle about 6 inch in diameter. (Do not use any dry flour. If dough is sticking the use some oil.)
Cut in half, Now apply some water on the straight edge and make a cone shape by joining the edge slightly overlapping. 
Press on the joint and make it sealed.
Fill in the stuffing and apply some water on the outer edge and seal it properly. 
heat the oil for deep frying on medium heat.
Fry samosa till golden on medium so it cooks properly 
drain them out on to kitchen tissue to absorb excess oil.
Serve hot with your favourite sauce.

Polish Homemade Salads 

1. BEETS SALAD:

beets, onion

Cooked beets and onions. Perfect addition to dishes such as roast pork or beef

roulade with gravy.

2. HOME-MADE SALAD:

Red cabbage, carrot, leek, apple, mayonnaise

Perfect for meat dishes prepared during grilling. Excellent for roulades in the

company od yeast dumplings.       

3. CELERY SALAD:

celery, raisins, cream

Celery and raisins, it's something for food gourmets. Perfect with poultry and fishes.

4. FAMILY SALAD:

White cabbage, carrot, leek, corn, parsley, dressing

Salad for every kind of dishes. The combination of parsley and corn to everyone's

liking.  

5. TOSIA SALAD:

White cabbage, corn, paprika, leek, cucumber, apple, dill, dressing.

White cabbage, paprika, cucumber and other vegetables combined with dressing

makes a perfect addition to every dish.

6. SPRING SALAD:

White cabbage, carrot, leek, dill, dressing

Fresh vegetables with addition of dill. Perfect for pork loin or poultry fillet. Excellent

for hamburgers, casserole or tortillas.

7. LEEK MADNESS SALAD:

white cabbage, leek, dressing

Cabbage and leek with excellent dressing. Little spicy and perfect for every dish 

Advice For Creating A Solid Video Marketing Campaign

Advice For Creating A Solid Video Marketing Campaign

You've probably heard of video marketing, but you may not know what it is. Basically, it's using videos online to market a product or a service. It is a great way to get your products out there. The article that you're about to read is going to go over the basics.

Video marketing allows you to stay in better touch with your targeted customer base. Have customers supply you with questions to answer in a weekly video. You should try giving away some freebies to customers that ask questions.

Do not spend a lot of money on video production for marketing content. You won't get a lot of views just because you spent a lot of money producing something. Some of Dell's best promotions have been made by ordinary employees.

You do not necessarily need strong production values in order to have an effective video. Professional gear isn't required if the picture is in focus and properly balanced. You do not even need a really fancy script or excessive levels of confidence. Relax, turn towards the camera and talk naturally. You may not even have to do that. You can also use pictures or PowerPoint slides if you do not want to appear in your videos.

Make interesting content. Business videos can be interesting, fun, or newsworthy. Uploading your videos to YouTube will lead to increases in traffic, but only if the videos are worthwhile. People need videos that contain substance, nobody enjoys watching long commercials. Interesting videos ensure increased traffic numbers.

Always include a question in each video. This is better known as the "call to action". For instance, if you would like viewers to subscribe to your newsletter, guide them to a link you've given them in the description of the video. You just have to make the process easy for them.

Everyone is looking for honesty. The topic of your video should be something that holds your interest and believe can last. Being natural or authentic can help viewers enjoy the videos and keep coming back for more from you.

You can employ video marketing to make your business successful. Show how the product is made or the service is done. Your customers will enjoy this personal little glimpse into your business.

Use videos for promoting your websites or social media. Someone that comes across your YouTube videos might not know that you are on Facebook, too. Draw attention to your other campaigns so customers can subscribe to the campaign that is adapted to their needs and habits. When you link your social media to your videos, traffic will increase to both.

Buy a tripod if don't already have one. Videos that look shaky are only appropriate for horror films or films of an avant garde nature. However, for the purposes of marketing, keep your shots steady and smooth. It takes only a matter of seconds for your viewer to determine the value of your clip.

Video marketing can be a great and easy way to increase your audience. When you take this article's advice, you'll find that you can attract more people to your business. Use these ideas when you are going to make a video for marketing.

Solar Power Lights

Solar Power Lights - 3 Best Ways to Use Solar Power Lighting at Home

With ever increasing energy costs and concerns about the environmental damage to the atmosphere due to the use of fossil fuels, more people are looking for an alternative energy source to power their homes. One such low cost and green alternative is to use solar power lights.

Most of us think of using solar power to supply the inside of our homes with electricity, but solar power energy is just as beneficial outside our homes as inside. Lighting is one area that consumes a lot of energy.

Here are 3 best ways to use solar power lighting at home.

Solar indoor lighting is a great solution to a variety of applications. Indoor solar lighting has many benefits. It is easy to install and requires very little maintenance. As long as you have a good location for the solar panel to be mounted to your roof, solar lighting in your home will soon start to save you money.

Installing solar powered lighting in your home is not just a good investment in energy-efficient lighting, but also an investment in the environment.

Using solar lighting outdoors has many advantages over conventional lighting for several reasons. Because there is no wiring involved, solar lights can be placed anywhere, so long as they have access to sunlight to charge during the day. This makes them ideal for use all around the outside of your home.

One important use for solar lighting is security and safety. Have you ever come home late and not been able to see your front path? Or not be able find the lock to put your key in? Solar powered flood lights not only provide you with a safe route in and around your garden, but offer a security system to deter intruders. They can reduce the risk of falls by lighting stairways, walkways, dark areas and pools. They are also a means of lighting sheds, garages or other out buildings that may not have a conventional power supply.

Outdoor solar lights, as their name implies, use the sun as their power source. During the day solar panels collect energy from the sun and charge the rechargeable batteries included with each outdoor light. At night, these lights will turn on automatically to provide light. On a full charge, these solar lights can run for 8 or more hours. When the sun rises, Solar powered lights will automatically turn off. This means when you come home in the dark, your lights will already be on for you and turned off by daylight.

Another excellent use of solar power lighting is landscape lighting for your garden. Garden lights can transform your garden and highlight particular features, such as trees, ponds and arches. Most solar lights sold today provide brighter white light through using the powerful technology of light-emitting diodes or LEDs. Outdoor solar lighting is very versatile and can be used anywhere outside.

Decorative lights for your garden come in many different styles, colors and designs. As there is no wiring, you are only limited by your imagination and the cost.

The problem with traditional lighting is that once you have spent time with all the wiring, you can not alter it around or add to it easily. You also have the problem of tripping over it or cutting through wires with the lawn mower. Not to mention wild animals that always seem to find your carefully hidden wires.

With solar power lights you are in control: you are free to add more lights whenever you like or move your existing ones to new locations on a whim. You can create ambiance late in the evening around your pool or patio area. Evening entertaining takes on a whole new light with solar lighting.

So, whether you choose solar power lighting for inside your home or for security and safety, or landscape lighting, it will provide you with an economical and environmentally friendly way to light your home.

Solar Panels for Homes

Solar Panels for Homes

Solar panels for homes have gradually become more efficient and less expensive to install, particularly if you install them yourself. Many new homes are being built with solar panels on the roof that are less obvious than their predecessors. Today's solar panels can convert more energy and take up less space, making them much smaller and more unobtrusive.

The benefits of solar power energy in terms of lower energy bills and a cleaner environment are attracting more and more people to think about installing their own renewable source of electricity.

Solar panels for homes are also known as photovoltaic, or PV systems. They work by converting sunlight into electrical energy. Each solar panel is composed of a group of solar cells made of a semi-conductive material. This is usually crystalline silicon, which absorbs sunlight very efficiently.

The solar panels are made up in layers. Most of these panels have a protective layer at the top, a few layers of conductive cells, and a bottom layer of polymer backing.

Solar power panels can produce enough electricity in ideal conditions, to meet the requirements of an average home. They can heat the water, power the lights and appliances and heat your home. As well as power air conditioners to keep it cool.

How effective your home solar panel is depends on your location. Solar power panels for residential use are placed on whichever side of your house gets the most exposure to the sun. However, if your home does not get an average of 6 hours steady sunlight, you may not be able to produce sufficient power for all your needs.

Most homes opt for a grid-interconnected system. This allows you to be connected to the conventional grid to draw power from when you have a short fall. On the other hand if you manage to produce an excess of power, you can sell this back to your energy company in the form of credits.

Most of the work of installing a solar panel on your home is preparation. In most cases you will need to obtain building permits. If you do decide to be grid-interconnected, you will need to contact your energy company.

Once having decided to install a home solar panel, you have two choices. Do you fit it yourself or have a professional installer? Choosing to fit your solar panel yourself will certainly save on the cost. There are now many good DIY kits, manuals and self help DVDs on the market or Internet. All the materials required to build your own home solar panel are more readily available and Solar panel prices have started to come down.

One disadvantage of installing a solar panel yourself is that it leaves little room for error. If not properly installed, you run the risk of damage to your roof and fire if not electrically connected properly.

If however, you prefer to have a professional installer, there are now many companies experienced in this field. The advantage of having it installed for you are that you get the complete package from design to maintenance, with little involvement from you.

There are many advantages to investing in solar panels for home use. The obvious cost savings and environmental factors are only two. It has been shown that having solar powered energy in your home can actually increase it's value. This could make the initial outlay well worthwhile. And once installed you will no longer need to rely entirely on conventional electrical sources again.

Will Dry Brushing Your Skin Remove Cellulite?

Will Dry Brushing Your Skin Remove Cellulite?

The more important question we should be asking is if you want to spend your time brushing your skin daily for months and seeing minimal results. Dry brushing has barely any effects on cellulite. Any visible change is very minimal and lasts for a day or two, if even that.

Before we go into the theory behind dry brushing, we must understand what cellulite is. It is fat. Nothing more than normal, plain ‘ol fat! This is the same fat that is found on any other part of your body. Cellulite is NOT a unique type of fat.

The only reason it appears different is due to the fact that the fat appears in clumps and in parts of your body where the skin is thinner and less porous. This is usually the skin on your thighs and butt. The difference is only in appearance. The fat is the same.

Most women experience having cellulite. That’s because most women do not do resistance training on their legs, thighs and butt. These areas are not toned, low on lean muscle and store fat easily. Even slim women store fat in these areas. The only way to remove the fat is with a healthy diet and exercise.

Can you brush fat away?

No! It’s ridiculous that people make claims that brushing your skin will remove cellulite.

The theory behind brushing is that brushing your skin will aid the lymph system to remove toxins from the body. A better way to do this will be a hard 20 minute cardio workout that leaves you gasping.

There is no evidence to show that removing toxins will remove cellulite. It is true that fat cells contain toxins but the best way to clear these toxins will be to adopt a clean, healthy diet and use exercise to burn off these fat stores. You cannot brush toxins away.

Even the websites or sources promoting dry brushing will advise you to adopt a healthy diet and exercise and brush your body daily for 6 days a week. You have to follow up this brushing habit for at least a month before you see any visible change. Even then, most people report no change at all.

A few women have reported minor changes but the cellulite returned within a day. The fact is the cellulite never left. It was there all along. Maybe the constant brushing made the skin swell up with blood and caused the skin to tighten. When the skin tightens, the fat is pushed below. Miraculously the cellulite seems to have ‘disappeared’. Once the swelling subsides, the cellulite returns to its dimply glory.

Dry brushing has its place in your routine. It should be something you do if you have the time. The most effective way to get rid of cellulite is to eat right and exercise hard. Dry brushing can complement this by energizing the skin and improving the skin moisture. The minimal toxin removing benefits will improve your health too.

Dry brushing is not a solution to cellulite. It’s just one of those extras you do to make you feel better psychologically. Once your diet and exercise regimen is in place, then you may go ahead and do the dry brushing if it makes you feel happy.

Residential Solar Power - Your Own Renewable Energy Source

Residential Solar Power - Your Own Renewable Energy Source

Residential solar power is the most common alternative energy that people make use of today to free themselves from the expensive energy sources being provided by private energy companies. With these ever increasing energy prices and the effect of carbon emissions on the environment, having your own renewable energy source is looking more and more attractive.

Although the initial outlay of a residential solar power system may be high, in the long term they can save you a great deal of money. Many home owners enjoy the independence they gain and the knowledge that their actions are helping the environment. A renewable energy home solar power system can be used to supply some or all of your home's electricity needs. Some home owners, especially in remote or isolated areas, use home solar power systems in place of electricity supplied to them from power companies.

As most appliances in our homes are reliant on electricity, it can be very useful to find out how to make your own residential solar power system, from which you can get most of your energy needs.

There are ways to help you make it a do-it-yourself project, where you can find cheap solar cells and make your own power source. Most the materials are available in your local shops, but nowadays they are even easier to find - and are even cheaper - online. This can keep down the installation costs too.

Most parts can be sourced on the Internet, including the solar panels, charge controller, power inverter, and batteries. You may also find solar panel kits if you are trying to keep the cost down. If you feel confident to have a go yourself, a good manual is essential - also available from many online sources.

Residential solar powered systems are fairly easy to maintain. Since most are positioned on the roof, about the only occasional maintenance that may be required would be to remove dirt and leaves once in a while, so that your system can continue to work at maximum efficiency.

Residential solar power systems are generally expected to last for a minimum of about 30 years. They are also silent to run and, of course, emission free, since they function by means of sunlight.

The two main types of residential solar power systems are either stand-alone systems, which are not wired to an electric grid, or a grid-tie system, which is connected to the electric grid as well. This latter system allows you to use electricity from the grid when your system falls short of power and also allows you to sell off any excess power you produce back to your utility company by means of credits. These two options make it easier to consider where to put your system.

The main component used in a home residential solar power system is the photovoltaic cells. These are electrically connected in a series arrangement to make sufficient electricity to be used to power your home appliances, heat your water, or to be stored in batteries. The photovoltaic cells will need to be bought for your system. The solar panels, on the other hand, can be built using widely available materials.

There are many significant advantages to a home residential solar power system, such as saving money and helping the environment. Solar power in recent years has made great strides forward, which means it is becoming more affordable for everyone. Gas and oil prices continue to rise, so turning to residential solar power is now a viable alternative.

Building your own residential solar power system can be challenging, so thorough research is needed to help you accomplish your project. However, the end result is well worth it, knowing you have your own green, renewable energy source independent of energy companies and doing your bit for the planet Earth at the same time.

Your Solar Electric System and The Utility Grid

Your Solar Electric System and The Utility Grid

As more and more people are becoming aware of the need to find natural ways to generate power, solar generated power has gained in popularity due to it's ability to be environmentally friendly and an excellent source of renewable energy. Solar electric heating systems are an obvious choice for those who are looking for an alternative source of electricity.

Solar electric systems generate electricity silently and without any moving parts. Sunlight is collected in the solar panels to generate DC electricity. That DC electricity is converted into  AC electricity for residential use by the inverter. The AC electricity is fed into your electric meter and circuit breaker panel. The electricity then goes either to your appliances and lights, or is fed back into the grid, or both.

There are two types of solar electric systems: off-grid and grid- interconnected. Off-grid solar electric systems have no connection to the electricity utility grid and use batteries to power your home when conditions are not favourable for the solar systems alone, for example, on a cloudy day or during adverse weather conditions.

Grid-interconnected systems connect the solar electric system to the utility grid. This means that when there is not sufficient sunlight to power your home, electricity is drawn from the grid. When a surplus of solar energy is produced, the power is fed back into the utility grid to be used by other customers.

Grid-interconnected systems are less complex, they tend to be easier to install and less expensive because they do not need batteries. Off-grid solar heating systems are often used where there is no existing electrical service and by those who wish to have complete independence from the grid.

One of the drawbacks of off-grid systems is the inefficiencies of charging and discharging the batteries. They tend to be less efficient than grid-interconnected systems.

Being connected to the utility grid is also more efficient  because off-grid systems must store the energy, as in the
batteries. If you are connected to the grid the utility company stores the energy for you. The utility company keeps track of the energy you use on an hourly basis. On a sunny day you can produce more energy than you are using, so can build up credits. Ideally, the aim of your solar electric system is to produce as much power over the year as you use or more to build up credits.

At night or during cloudy weather, the solar electric system's output is reduced or even stopped. Your home will then gets it's electricity from the utility grid. As you are always connected to the grid you will have as much power as you need, when you need it, regardless of how much energy your system has managed to produce. If your system produces an excess of energy your meter will spin backwards, counting down your energy bill.

Depending on your energy company, special metering and billing arrangements can help you take advantage of higher daytime rates, allowing you to sell power at a high rate and buy it back at night at a lower rate. This can not only save you money but reduce the size of your solar electric system.

The advantages of installing a solar electric system are many - from  money saving, environmental factors and independence. However, before you buy a grid-connected system, make sure you choose a good installer, one who has experience in this field and one who is familiar with your utility company's regulations and interconnection requirements. Your installer should be able to provide everything you need in order to run your system.

Swimming Pool Solar Heating to Save Energy Bills

Swimming Pool Solar Heating to Save Energy Bills

If you own a swimming pool, you will probably be looking for ways to extend the season to continue to use your pool for as much of the year as possible. But with growing concerns about costs and the environment, people are looking for ways to reduce their spending, particularly when it comes to energy bills. For this reason, many owners of in-ground or above-ground swimming pools are looking for an alternative source of energy to heat their pools. Swimming pool solar heating systems are fast becoming a cheap, and a green alternative to traditional forms of pool heating.

A solar swimming pool heating system can easily heat your pool to your required temperature while helping you save money on your energy bill. A solar pool heater is powered from the sun and once installed is almost maintenance free - and costs nothing to run.

Although some solar pool heaters work differently, most cycle the cold water from your pool through solar panels. These panels capture energy from the sun and use this free energy to warm the water before cycling it back into your swimming pool, ready for use. A solar pool heating system can significantly lengthen the season for using your pool.

Another type of swimming pool solar heating system is a solar pool blanket. A solar pool blanket is one of the more widely used pool heating systems. In-ground solar pool blankets are covered with thousands of tiny sealed air pockets which act as insulators as well as heat transmitters. They capture heat from the sun and transfer it into the pool water, raising the temperature by up to 10 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. At the same time , the special design of the pool blankets reduce evaporation, thereby preventing water and heat loss.  Pool blankets are available in a variety of thickness and size to suit most pools.

For those with an above-ground pool, you can still have  a solar heater. An above-ground pool can have  a 'roof top' cover. This type of cover sits on the roof of your home while collecting energy. This has the advantage of being unobtrusive.

Another type of solar powered pool heater is a dome. These are usually made up of vinyl and aluminum. They provide a complete enclosure to your pool, preventing heat loss and also helping keep your pool clean. Pool domes are easy to put up and take down and require very little work once installed.

Solar sun rings are another form of solar pool heating. These are made up of two layers of UV resistant vinyl. The top clear layer holds insulating air and also serves to focus sunlight on the bottom blue layer. This blue layer absorbs about half of the sunlight, converting it into heat energy. Several of these rings are used together and sit on the surface of the swimming pool. This creates an insulating blanket to cover 70 to 80 percent of the pool's surface. They are highly efficient and easier to handle than the solar blankets.

In addition to the above, you can also use solar pills. These go in your pump basket and release a swimmer-friendly compound which spreads across the surface of the water, forming an invisible shield which inhibits heat evaporation. Solar pills work for 24 hours per day and last for up to 30 days. Although solar pills are very convenient, they are only about 60 percent as effective as solar blankets.

With so many different types of pool solar heating systems, it is easy to find one that suits both your pool and your pocket. Once having chosen your solar heater you can start harnessing the sun's free energy quickly and easily, saving you significant amounts on your energy bills. You can enjoy an extended swimming season  knowing that heating your pool with solar energy is not harming the environment as well as saving money.

Solar Panel Installation

Solar Panel Installation 

When deciding to install a solar power system, one of the main considerations is cost. Not only do you have to think about the actual cost of the materials, but the cost of the installation as well, which can add a huge amount to your bill.

Fortunately, there is good news for those who feel confident to have a go themselves. There is now much information on the net, good manuals and DIY kits. Increased availability of solar heating system materials and lowering costs have made solar panel installation a project that can be done yourself.

Many companies are now competing in the solar panel parts market. It looks like the DIY market is getting cheaper and growing faster as the technology becomes much more accessible.

Constructing your own solar panel costs much less because you will not have to pay for professional solar panel installation. You will, however, have to get instructional materials that will teach you how to get your solar panel system assembled and running. These are readily available on the net, book store or through DVDs. Many people have successfully built their own solar panels using such resources and greatly reduced their electricity consumption and bills. There are some highly recommended guides that provide easy-to-follow instructions.

Once having built your solar panel, you will probably want to install it yourself too. This is because installing the photovoltaic cells is quite a manageable task and the materials are readily available.

The majority of work when installing your own solar panel on your home is preparation. You will need to obtain building permits in many cases. You will also need to research where to place your solar panels for maximum efficiency. A solar survey expert could do this for you. You also need to decide if you wish to be grid-tied. If so you need to contact your energy company.

Being grid-tied can be highly beneficial, as it means you can use the grid as a back up supply if your solar system does not produce enough electricity. This can happen on cloudy days or in higher than average use. It also means you can sell back any excess energy to your supplier in the form of credits.

If you don't feel confident enough to install your own solar panel, there are now many commercial solar panel installers that can fit solar panels to your roof. The advantages to having a professional install your solar panels is that you get the complete package. They will quote you a price before they begin work so you know exactly what you are getting in to.

Your installer will take care of everything from design to maintenance. Your involvement is minimal, but this comes at a price. Despite the competition in the market between companies, few solar panel installers are willing to lower their prices due to overheads.

Unlike the DIY market, prices remain high and unlikely to come down for some time. You should be able to find an installer in your area, but recommendation is always preferable. Look out for solar panels on neighborhood roofs and ask the owners about their experiences.

The main reason for DIY solar panel installation is cost and although it can be very successfully done, it leaves very little room for errors. You can damage your home, especially the roof if your panels are not properly installed. There is also the risk of fire and explosions from wiring and battery banks.

So unless you feel completely confident about installing your solar panels it may be best to seek expert advice. In any event, the final connections to your meter should always be carried out by a professionally qualified electrician.

Solar Hot Water Heating Systems

Solar Hot Water Heating Systems

As people become aware of the necessity to become more environmentally friendly, they are turning to natural sources of energy for everyday use. A solar hot water heating system is one way that is environmentally friendly, and could save you money on your energy bills and in some cases even make you money by selling back excess energy to your supplier.

When selecting a solar hot water heating system, there are several factors that need to be considered. These include; system design, geographic location, collector direction and collector size. These will determine the amount of energy that can be provided for domestic hot water heating. Most solar hot water heating systems have a back-up water heater such as electricity or gas.

Solar hot water heating systems are made up of insulated storage tanks to store the hot water and solar panels called collectors. A collector is fixed to the roof of a house or building or on a wall facing the sun. This will heat the water using solar energy.

The collectors accumulate the heat from the sun and use this heat to warm water, which in turn is stored in the hot water cylinder. Solar storage tanks have an additional outlet connected to and from the collector.

There are two types of solar heating systems: active, which have circulating pumps and controls, and passive which don't. In two-tank systems, the solar water heater preheats water before it enters the conventional water heater. In one-tank systems, the back-up heater is combined with the solar storage in one tank. The running water can be pumped through the heating system as an active system or can be driven by normal convection as in a passive system.

There are three types of solar collectors that are used for residential, domestic applications. These are; Flat- plate collectors, integral collector-storage systems and evacuated-tube solar collectors.

Flat-plate collectors work by absorbing the solar radiation into glazed flat plates. These are made of a weatherproofed outer metallic box covered with a glass or plastic sheet on top. Inside the water is carried through dark, flat metallic absorber sheets that are partly coated with built in channels or riser tubes and are connected to copper pipes. The absorber absorbs the solar radiation and transmits the heat to the flowing water.

Integral collector-storage systems include one or more black tanks or tubes in a weatherproofed, glazed black box. Initially cold water passes through the solar collector, which preheats the water. The water then flows into the standard backup water heater, thus offering a reliable source of hot water. These heaters should be installed during mild-freeze climates only, as the outdoor pipes may possibly freeze in severe cold weather conditions.

Evacuated tube collectors are made up of a pair of transparent borosillicate glass tubes. These are evacuated to provide insulation. Each tube contains a glass outer tube and metal absorber tube attached to a fin. The coating of the fin absorbs solar energy while preventing heat loss. These types of collectors are mainly used for commercial use in the US.

Solar hot water heating systems almost always require a backup system for cloudy days or to cover increased demand. Conventional storage water heaters usually provide backup and may be part of the solar power package. The proper installation of solar water heaters is vital. So it is important to do some research on the factors already mentioned. You should also investigate local codes, covenants and regulations regarding the installation of solar heating systems. And screen your chosen contractor carefully to make sure they have the right experience for the job.

Solar Heating Systems Guide

Solar Heating Systems Guide

There are several reasons why you may want to install your own solar heating system.

Perhaps it is cost that attracts you? As energy prices continue to rise, harnessing power for free from the sun has a huge appeal.

Perhaps it is your environmental concerns that attract you to a solar heating system? A solar heating system emits no harmful CO2 into the atmosphere and is a renewable source of energy.

Or perhaps you just want to be independent from the energy companies? Not having to rely on outside influences for your energy, or worry about power failure, is very reassuring.

All the above are the main reasons for wanting to install your own solar heating system, which will have a significant positive effect on your pocket, the environment and the security of knowing you will have power when you want it. So where do you start once you have made the decision to go solar?

Firstly, it is a good idea to sit down and work out how much you spend on energy and how many people will be using it. This will help you to choose the right system for your home. Decide what methods you would like to take advantage of from solar energy.

You need to consider your location as well as which way the house faces. As most solar heating panels fit on the roof they need to be positioned facing maximum sunlight. Consider, too, the number of appliances you want to power. Once you have done this it is time to do some research to find the solar heating system that fits your needs and your budget. You can find information from some of the excellent, and inexpensive manuals available online to help you decide.

Secondly, once you have done this, your next step is to select the solar heating system suitable for your home. There are two main ways to harness solar power for domestic use. Solar heating modules that provide active water heating, and photovoltaic modules that actually generate electricity.

Solar water heating is the cheaper and more limited system.There are several different methods, but basically the solar panels fitted on your roof retain heat from the sun and transfer it to a fluid. A storage tank stores the hot water that is heated during the day. These systems are obviously reliant on the amount of sunlight the solar panels receive. So you may wish to continue to be grid-interconnected. This means that in times of inclement weather or above average use, you have the back up of taking power from the grid. This has an added bonus, that if you produce more power than you use, it can be sold back to the grid as credits.

Solar photovoltaic cells on your roof use sunlight to generate electricity. The electricity is collected and converted from DC to AC and then carried into your home electricity system. The photovoltaic modules come in different forms, shapes, and colors, and can even be made to look like tiles.  These are connected in a series arrangement to make sufficient electricity to be used to power your home, heat your water or be stored in batteries for later use.

Whichever system you choose it is worth contacting your local authority to check on planning permissions etc and check if there are any government incentives for green energy projects.

If you are trying to keep the cost down, you might attempt installing a solar heating system yourself. There are various DIY kits and manuals available. However, you will need some DIY skills, and the final connections to your home systems should not be attempted if you are not a qualified electrician. If you are not sure you can install the system safely, it is always best to seek a professional - and may even save you money in the long run.

Pros and Cons of Solar Energy

When thinking about installing solar energy systems the pros on the surface certainly look like they outweigh the cons. The advantages of having an alternative energy source that is cheap, renewable and green, seems too good to be true. But while solar energy is considered to be environmentally friendly, it still comes with some disadvantages. Here are some of the pros and the cons of solar energy to help you make an informed decision.

Let's start with the pros.

Solar energy is a renewable and never-ending source of energy. Solar power is not location specific, unlike certain other forms of energy. A solar energy system can be fitted as easily in the city or remote part of the country, at sea or up a mountain and is available to everyone.

If you live in an area that gets the sun and  can fit a solar panel, you can have solar energy. If you live in a remote area where there are no power-lines, gas or electric supply, solar energy can be the perfect solution. Solar energy is a great alternative because it provides you with everything to power your home, hot water, powering appliances, lights and heating.

The burning of fossil fuels results in the release of harmful gasses and other by-products, many of which result in the depletion of the ozone layer. They also cause other damage to the environment and often cause health problems. With solar energy however, no harmful gases or by-products are released and so it causes zero pollution and is totally clean and an excellent alternative energy source. To produce electricity with solar energy you only need the sun's rays. There is no use of these harmful fossil fuels.

Another big advantage of solar energy is the cost. Solar energy is far less expensive than more traditional grid-based electric heating. Other than the one-off cost of buying the solar panels and connection materials, solar energy is completely free for the rest of it's life. And since most solar energy systems last for an average of 30 years, that can result in a very big saving on your future energy bills.

For those who opt for a grid-interconnected system, they may well find that they make a profit by selling back excess power to the grid. Solar energy systems require very little maintenance, unlike conventional heating systems, which is likely to be another saving on your household bills.

If this all sounds too good to be true, let's take a look at some of the cons.

The main disadvantage of solar power is the initial cost. Solar panels are comparatively quite expensive mainly due to the cost of materials and the complexity of the technology and design involved. This is what usually puts people off installing solar energy.

Professional solar energy installers have not brought down their costs due to overheads, and the medium range forecast is that equipment costs are more likely to rise over the next few years than to fall.

Another disadvantage is that although you can install solar energy in most places, you are reliant on the sun's rays to power the system. If you are situated where there is not much sun light then this could be a problem. In other areas, the sun's rays are almost always covered by clouds, making solar energy collectors less effective.

Lastly, the sun only shines during the day. Therefore if you need to use a lot of electricity or hot water at night, it can be a problem. To get round this you will need to be connected to the grid as a back up. Or you can store the power in batteries for later use. So if you were thinking about being totally independent from an energy supplier, you might be disappointed.

Though there are some cons to installing solar energy in your home, the pros for most people would certainly seem to outweigh them. Although solar energy is not yet a substantial source of energy at present, it certainly looks like it could be for the future.

With the likelihood of the cost of solar panels rising over the next few years, the time to make the switch is unlikely to be better than now. Of course you should weigh up the pros and cons of solar energy for yourself, but if you want to get the best prices, don't wait too long to decide.

Home Solar Power Systems - 3 Benefits For You

Home Solar Power Systems - 3 Benefits For You

The benefits of installing a home solar power system are becoming more and more obvious as energy costs continue to rise, and environmental concerns increase. Whether you are concerned about the initial cost of materials and installation, or the reliability of a home solar power system, it is well worth doing some research to find some surprising benefits to a green and renewable source of energy. Here I have outlined 3 benefits of a home solar power system.

Firstly, there is the cost factor. Although many people are put off buying their own solar power system due to the initial costs involved, it is worth doing the math and working out how much your energy bills are per year and how long it would take you to recoup this initial outlay.

Grid-interconnected systems work by buying any excess power you produce back from you. So not only would you save money on your energy bills, but you could end up making money from your system too! When you generate a surplus of power, your meter turns backwards, earning you credits.

Many people find they can quite easily fulfil their entire energy needs from a home solar power system. So it doesn't take long until the cost of the solar panels and other parts such as the inverter are paid for. There is also strong evidence that installing a home solar power system can increase the value of your property when you come to sell.

Secondly, having your own reliable source of power can be very reassuring. With a recession this is particularly good as you will know that whatever your financial circumstances, your energy bills will not be a burden. Also you will never be affected by power cuts, faults or weather problems that may cause damage to power supplies.

Solar power is a consistent source of energy that will ensure you have electricity to heat your water and home, and power your appliances regardless of what happens to your utility company. It can give you a sense of independence and control over your energy consumption. When you have your own home solar power system you lessen your dependence on both centralized and foreign sources of energy.

Thirdly, and perhaps in the long term the most important, is the benefit to the environment, which in turn has a direct impact on us all. The burning of fossil fuels is a leading cause of global warming and air pollution. Solar energy reduces the amount of fossil fuel that is burned, thus reducing the pollutants and CO2 that gets into the atmosphere.

Home Solar power systems can help us do our bit towards saving natural resources and reducing the carbon emissions. Because solar power is greenenergy, a renewable energy source, it is clean and free and does not pollute.

Therefore, a home solar energy system is not only one of the best ways to make a real contribution to sustainability, but financially it can be of real and significant benefit to you. You will also have the reassurance of your own independent power supply.