YES, WITH SOME EXCEPTIONS! Solar Panels: Are They Worth Your Time and Money?
Hi friends! On average, Phoenix sees 299 days of clear and sunny weather each year, which means solar energy is the clear energy solution for many Phoenix homeowners. But is solar worthwhile? According to Solar Reviews , the average cost to install solar panels in Phoenix is between $9,151 to $11,185. The average 25-year savings is $25,814–$31,550. The average payback period is typically between 7.1 to 8.7 years — and with a 25- or 50-year guarantee on many solar panel installations, good quality solar panels can be profitable for you and your family for decades to come. The most significant financial incentive to install solar panels in Phoenix, however, is the 22% federal tax credit you will receive, plus the Arizona solar tax credit, which is equal to 25% of the cost of a solar system, up to $1,000.
energy system or leasing it. However, a solar lease on a home for sale can make the home sale more difficult, since the buyer is usually concerned about qualifying to purchase the home and will then have to consider qualifying for the solar lease payment on top of the mortgage payment. If you are considering a solar lease, consider where you are saving money. When you add a solar lease payment to an electric bill, the benefiting party is the solar company charging interest on the system. Unfortunately, the savings are not as significant when leasing the system. By the end of a solar lease, you will often have the option to buy the antiquated solar equipment or give it back to the solar company. The main benefit of signing a solar lease is that you will not have to pay out of pocket for any maintenance issues, and repairs will be the solar company’s responsibility. If you do sign a solar lease, try to negotiate a lease
in which the payments are fixed and not increasing annually.
Dennis and I added a solar system to our home in 2008. Back then, the federal and state tax incentives were even higher for homeowners to install independent energy sources to their homes. Our roof was in great condition, we had no plans to move and we jumped on the opportunity. Our out-of- pocket cost (after all energy and tax credits) was $14,000. We live in a 3,800-square-foot home with a pool, and the solar system reduced our annual electric costs from $4,100 each year to $800 per year, saving us $3,300 annually over the last 14 years. That’s a total savings of $46,200 on a $14,000 investment! And we continue to save money today. Solar energy is a great example of why looking out for the future of the planet, as well as the future of your home, is the gift that keeps on giving.
There are two ways you can install solar energy into your home: purchasing a solar
–Lisa Jones
Xanthan Gum Is a Great Substitute Trying to Thicken Your Meals?
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Lower Blood Sugar In a 12-week study of men with diabetes and without diabetes, experts asked both groups to eat a muffin each day and then regularly tested their blood sugar. This showed that blood sugar was lower for men who had diabetes and ate a muffin using xanthan gum. Weight Loss Xanthan gum increases fullness by slowing down digestion — and it can make you feel fuller after eating because it’s a form of soluble fiber. Saliva Substitute For individuals who suffer from dry mouth, studies have shown that using xanthan gum can prevent dryness. You can use it in mouthwash and other products to combat the problem.
Have you ever made a smoothie or milkshake that was too watery for your liking? Trying to thicken your beverages can be difficult; luckily, xanthan gum is here to help. This additive is made from corn and is produced when bacteria ferment glucose, sucrose, or lactose. Xanthan gum is used as a thickener and stabilizer in all kinds of foods. Xanthan gum is a great product to have if you want to thicken one of your recipes and is also used for gluten-free baked goods. You can use it in salad dressings, soups, juices, sauces, and syrups. A little goes a long way when it comes to xanthan gum — all you need is about one-fourth of a teaspoon in your recipes. Along with its usefulness in the kitchen, there are also some health benefits to xanthan gum.
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Prevents Tooth Decay Several studies have shown that xanthan gum may help protect your teeth from cavities and demineralization. Relieves Constipation Being a soluble fiber, xanthan gum is an effective laxative as well.
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You do not want to consume too much xanthan gum; some of the side effects of taking more than 15 grams a day are intestinal gas and bloating. Xanthan gum is a great additive for beverages and other foods. If you are looking for a thicker consistency or want a gluten- free option, give xanthan gum a try! You can find xanthan gum at most supermarkets.
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Dennis & Lisa Jones
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