How Do Solar Panels Work?
There are generally two kinds of solar panels. One kind makes electricity, the other kind generates heat. You also need be aware of the difference between the two as they are not interchangable That aside, both will be of benefit to you if you are contemplating saving on energy bills.
The Different Solar Panels Explained
A solar thermal collector uses the sun’s energy to heat water and even other fluids, such as oil. They typically have plastic tubing, hoses or coils in the panel. The liquid goes through the coils and is heated by the sun. These kinds of panels are ideal for heating swimming pools, spas, hot tubs and hot water for homes and businesses. They can also heat building interiors by using baseboard heating units and hot water flooring systems. Although no additional heating fuels are needed once these are installed, they will usually require some kind of electric pump to circulate the fluids.
Solar photovoltaic cells help generate DC (direct current) electricity. Most typically, they use semi-conductor material (silicon) in the panel, which interacts with sunlight to create electricity. That electricity can be used to power household and electrical appliances, or even the whole house if the system is big enough. The panels can only generate electricity when they are receiving direct sunlight.
Solar Panels: Use To Make Domestic Energy
In order to use a solar power system at night or during overcast days, the electricity must be held in a battery storage system. You can use the less expensive lead-acid batteries (like the kind your car uses), but keep in mind that they require distilled water to maintain their charge. Some batteries are more expensive, but they have certain advantages. Sealed AGM (absorbent glass mat) batteries will retain their charge without any maintenence. Freeze-resistant gel batteries are ideal for colder climates.
For both the thermal collector and the photovoltaic systems, glass panels are used to encase their collection systems, and both require direct sunlight to function. The panels are best placed in a location that faces south and allows maximum exposure to sunlight during the entire day. Solar panels can be used in any location to utilize the sun’s energy, but they won’t work as well in regions that typically have a lot of cloudy days during the year.
Even in the sunniest regions, it’s a good idea to have a backup generator for either system. You can even go that extra mile and make your own biodiesel if you decide to include a generator with your system And the generators can be used if your battery storage becomes depleted, or whenever there is an unexpected stretch of overcast days.
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