This report defines active and passive solar energy systems, describes home uses for solar energy, and offers guidelines for choosing and installing a system. Much of the information is specific to the state of California. Uses for solar energy which are presented include passive space heating, passive cooling, active space heating, household water heating, and swimming pool heating. The following considerations in deciding whether to invest in a system are discussed: reducing the need for a system through energy conservation, determining cost effectiveness, financing the system, and claiming federal and California tax credits. Suggestions are offered for deciding whether to do it yourself or to have a contractor do the installation, for selecting a contractor, and for choosing a system. A list of sources of further information cites six energy information centers and four California energy utilities. Information in this report is current at the time of printing, August 1982, but is subject to change. (DC)