subject: Solar Science How It Works, And What It Can Do For Your Home [print this page] Solar power is rapidly becoming a major problem solver for homeowners. As electricity prices rise, and the controversy about pollution from electricity generation rages, many people want better options. Solar power systems are perfect for cutting power costs, as well as providing a lot of power for many things around the home or property. The more you know about how solar power works, the more uses youll see for it in your home.
Solar power basics- Solar cells and solar panels
Solar cells are also known as photovoltaic cells. These cells convert sunlight into energy using semiconductors to create electricity. The levels of efficiency in conversion have been steadily increasing, and from humble beginnings are now at a stage where theyre viable sources of large amounts of power.
Solar panels are arrays of solar cells. They come in various forms, and can be hooked up to any type of electrical system quite easily. Theyre even put on car roofs and cars covered in solar panels have traveled from the north to the south of Australia powered by nothing but sunlight.
Assessing what solar power can do for your home
When looking at home solar power, the first thing youll notice is how much you can achieve using solar in so many different ways.
The options are practically endless:
* General home power systems
* Outdoor lighting
* Hot water
* Outdoor power
* Remote and rural locations
* Standalone systems
* Battery charging
These are extremely adaptable systems, and theyre also comparatively cheap, relative to the costs of mains power and connections. If youre in a situation where you may need expensive infrastructure for power, solar makes a lot of sense.
Hooking up a solar system- Easy, and plenty of support when you need it
Connecting a solar panel system is so easy most people can do it with any small system. Larger systems like home power systems need a professional touch, though, in most cases. Hooking up to the home wiring system requires a licensed tradesperson and making sure all the connections are right for the job.
Important note: In older houses, wiring can be a bit iffy, so a check of those systems prior to installation is also a good idea. You need to be sure theyre hooked in to good, modern systems for best performance, and the old wiring should be looked at anyway for safety reasons.
People in the solar industry will be happy to advise and make suggestions about the best solar power systems for your needs like the right solar panels for your home and how to go about your solar panel installation. They can also give you support when you need help or need information about your system.
Solar science is likely to become one of the biggest assets to home owners in the 21st century. Having your own standalone power source is like having extra insurance when you need it.
