subject: How making use of old solar cells to produce solar panels can significantly reduce your setup cost [print this page] How making use of old solar cells to produce solar panels can significantly reduce your setup cost
There are possible ways of saving while going green such as opting for utilized solar panels, though this choice does come with the caveat of being willing to roll up your sleeves. Your greatest decision to decrease the cost is to hire a professional, at the very least for the installation.
Nevertheless, expertise is not a requirement when buying used solar panels, however it helps to have a guideline when deciding on such a purchase. Be conscious that technology improves over time and solar panel use is fairly new. Actually, several of the older panels are still in use these days. The very first factor you'll notice is that older panels tend to be larger than newer panels when comparing wattage, but if you have the available space, it'll be a lower option for going green.
Be sure not to ignore obvious damage, such as cracked glass, and missing or broken connections. Only you are able to determine your level of skill, and if you are willing to attempt repairs like soldering them you should be able to repair broken connections utilizing a soldering iron with 2% silver.
The most telling aspect is the output measurement that you receive from your digital meter; make sure to measure in full sunlight. To test used solar panels, measure across the plus and minus terminals of each panel. Soon after setting your meter to measure DC voltage, a 12 volt panel ought to show about 21 volts in full sunlight. Be mindful that a battery is still necessary to have the ability to store the solar energy and that will slightly increase the initial price.
Over the extended haul, though, maintaining a solar panel is as easy as wiping down the panels every two weeks to eliminate debris and there is a bit of additional work needed in maintaining the battery. Before final installation, verify that no shadows are cast over the panels and that the unit faces south with the right tilt angle.
One other aspect of a growing field of technology is that demand drives the repair and maintenance business that goes with the technology. Becoming a handy man does really turn out to be essential based on where you are located.
Keep in mind to investigate the tax subsidies offered by state and federal government for extra savings for your principal residence that might contribute as much as 30% of the cost. Check together with your personal tax representative before buying for a realistic expectation of how much you will have to pay out of pocket, and whether your state provides extra reimbursement.
