Solar Panels - Important Benefits of a DIY Solar Water Heater
March 6, 2010 | Leave a Comment
Even if you are a novice with do-it-yourself projects, the Do-it-yourself solar water heater is still an excellent venture for you to do. There are different levels of difficulty that can be built, based on which kind of project you are undertaking. Regardless of your degree of expertise, you will be able to find a suitable project that is suitable for both your requirements as well as your degree of experience.
There are different options for DIY solar water heaters and the simplest among these are batch water heaters. They are designed to ensure that the parts you need can be found at your community hardware store. The various options include varying designs that can be adapted to suit your particular requirements or individual style.
The batch water heater utilizes a water tank that’s positioned where it’ll heat the power utilizing the sun’s energy. This is then attached to your home’s plumbing system. You need the sun’s heating of the water to be as effective as it can be, and you may need to get slightly innovative to complete this.
The first thing would be to have your water tank painted a black matte color. Because black absorbs lights, this helps the tank to absorb as well as hold as much heat as possible. Beyond this you will need to take stock of what is accessible to you and get creative. Many people encase the batch water heater inside a basic glass box. This generates an insulated area close to the water heater which will additionally help to hold the heat in.
Many people get even more innovative. Several DIY solar water heaters integrate portable mirrors located smartly around the water tank. The suns rays then hit these mirrors and are reflected onto the system, increasing the surface area that will be heated. These mirrored systems are the most effective types since the largest surface area is utilized, assisting the tank to make probably the most use of the sun’s rays.
However, if you reside in cold climates you should understand that the batch water heater may not be a great choice for you. If you come across long stretches of below freezing temperatures then you’ll definitely need to avoid the batch system. Chilly places and freezing temperatures can cause batch heaters to break. Batch heaters in colder climates should be drained during the winter to protect them.
As a result, if you reside in a cooler climate you should look into one of the other several choices accessible for Do-it-yourself solar water heaters. One particular option is a closed loop system. Using a closed loop system water is in continuous movement, certainly not having the chance to freeze and cause damage. However, closed loop systems are more technical and need greater plumbing expertise which means you should only try it when you have lots of DIY experience.
The fantastic thing about this type of system is that they can reduce your energy cost and reduce your carbon footprint so they are great for the environment. Most DIY solar water heaters could be built for under $1200, and therefore it won’t take very long before your investment pays for itself and you’ll have fun constructing this new, money-saving system.
Looking to find the best deal on solar power, then visit Nathan Henry’s site on how to choose the best solar panels for your needs.
Solar Power Tracking Systems
February 14, 2010 | Leave a Comment
Tracking systems are designed to orient your solar panels toward the Sun. They will add an extra level of performance to your solar power system, for a little bit of expense and complexity.
As the Sun tracks its course through the seasons, the best solar panel operating angle will change. The more directly the solar panels can face the Sun, then the more beam radiation they will receive. Tracking systems, by adjusting this operating angle, help maximize this beam radiation received.
There is the potential for large gains when one uses a solar power tracking system. As an example we studied the solar energy tables for the State of Colorado and found that ~45% additional energy can be obtained when using tracking during the summer months. This increase remains a firm 25% during the spring, and drops to around 15% during winter months. These numbers are maximums and will depend on the tracking system in use.
The most cost effective tracking for solar panels is a manually adjustable one axis system. The adjustability is on the horizontal axis, so the solar panels can rotate toward the southern horizon. By making seasonal adjustments to our solar panels we increased our performance by 20% in the summer and winter months.
Automatic (active) one axis tracking systems are also available. They are self-adjusting units that rotate daily with the arc of the Sun. Performance gains are 40% or more in the summer months, which commands serious consideration. There is the added complexity of the electronic and mechanical control mechanisms, but this cost can be offset by their superior performance.
The most advanced solar power tracking is a two axis system with electronic controls. These systems can rotate on both their horizontal and vertical axes, for maximum flexibility. Two axis systems are the most accurate for tracking the Sun, for the added cost and complexity.
Two axis systems are commonly used with concentrating solar collector designs. These types of collectors, like a magnifying glass, focus the rays of the Sun. Systems with these installations require the highest possible operating temperatures. Examples include thermal power stations, stirling engines, and pebble bed transfer systems.
When it comes to using solar panels to generate electricity, a two axis system is not the way to go. They will yield a very modest 5% gain over an actively tracking one axis system. For the cost and simplicity, we recommend a manually adjustable or actively tracking one axis system.
The primary applications for solar power are with generating heat and electricity. A solar power tracking system is useful in either case. The more energy we receive, the more heat and electricity we can manufacture. It’s that simple.
If you desire an extra level of performance with your solar panels, a one axis tracking system is recommended. A manually adjustable system, such as Rotek, is a low cost solution and will provide modest gains. An actively controlled tracking system at moderate cost will provide very good gains. You will have to make a compromise between the upfront costs and desired performance when making this decision.
Walter Hull is a recognized expert in solar energy power systems. For a limited time you can get his free checklist to solar energy from your own yard.
Save Money - Learn How To Make A Solar Panel
February 13, 2010 | Leave a Comment
Over the last decade there has been a continuous rise in the number of households that are choosing to use solar power for a percentage of their electricity requirements. There are many reasons for this trend but the main factor is due to money. Every year our utility bills cost a lot more than the previous years. By switching to alternative energy, financial savings can be made. Then there is also the environmental aspect. Today there is no need for us to be adding to climate change through the use of fossil fuel energy sources. If you want to try out solar energy but are worried about the upfront cost, then you can learn how to make a solar panel by yourself.
If you were to buy a new solar panel you may have to spend a few thousand dollars. Though in the long run you will recoup this money from what you will save on energy bills, it can be difficult for many families to find the funds for the investment.
Instead, if you buy all the individual pieces and carry out the assembly yourself it may only cost as little as $200. This is why learning how to make your own photovoltaic panel is such a good option for many people wanting to save money.
Before you think about putting the parts together you will need to gather the hardware. Photovoltaic cells are essential; they will do the work of converting the sunlight into electricity. In principle it is similar to the method in which a green plant uses the sun’s rays to create energy.
The photovoltaic cells available today use a lot more efficient technology than the types used even a few years back. There are continuous advancements and developments in the field of solar technology, so it will only become more efficient.
As well as the cells you will also want to pick up a soldering iron, copper wire, wooden boards, and some glass panels. You will also have to buy a couple of 24volt or 12volt batteries to store the electricity that you produce. The dimensions of the solar panel will depend upon how much energy you want to harness.
If you want solar panels for your home, save money and learn how to build a solar panel.
Thermal Collectors and Thermal Solar Power Systems
February 12, 2010 | Leave a Comment
There is a category of solar power designs which generate heat directly from the Sun. They are called thermal solar power systems, and are a reliable and inexpensive way to make your life more self sustainable for years to come.
The field of thermal solar power is large, and ranges from a simple system to heat your water tank, up to full fledged steam power facilities in use today. With a little thought, one can imagine a wide variety of applications for thermal solar technologies.
For most folks, thermal solar power will be limited to heating up a hot water tank, or storing heat for the workshop or house. These systems are inexpensive to incorporate, especially when designing a new home.
Pebble bed heat exchangers are another application for thermal solar power. They are like the thermodynamic equivalent of a water tank. They give us a nice reservoir with which to store and distribute excess energy.
These pebble bed heat exchangers can be designed into your floors, walls, workshops, or other places around the home. They can be used for household heating, greenhouses, saunas, and as air driers for clothes. We had one design whereby a user wanted to heat up a nesting area in their chicken coupe!
The typical operating temperature for most thermal solar power systems will be between 100F and 180F. In good solar climates these temperatures can be easily achieved with popular off the shelf equipment. With more specialized equipment we can go in excess of 250F, and with high performance industrial equipment over 700 degrees is possible. These high performance systems are usually for making steam, but incorporating them into other processes is also possible.
The solar collector is the most important component to a thermal solar power installation. A few different types include flat plate absorbers, evacuated tube absorbers, and parabolic trough concentrators. Their main purpose is to absorb solar radiation and generate heat for the system. With a good sized solar collector system, significant heat can be generated and distributed to multiple locations.
The solar collector will transfer heat to a circulating fluid, whose flow is driven by a small pump. Depending on the system design temperature and operating environment, this fluid may be water, glycol, or oil. The circulating fluid is like the life blood of thermal solar power system by moving the energy to all the users.
Anyone interested in energy independence and self-sustainability should thoroughly investigate thermal solar energy. Most systems are fairly simple and rank very well in affordability. If you live in a climate with a good reputation for Sun, then there is a pretty good chance you could be using a thermal solar power system of some form.
Thermal power systems are typically less expensive than solar power electricity, and can create household hot water and heat reliably. With the addition of pebble bed storage and higher operating temperatures, then the amount of potential uses suddenly becomes many. With the markets of sustainability re-growing their roots we expect to see a variety of new designs and installations in years to come.
Walter Hull is a recognized expert in solar energy power systems. For a short time you can get his free checklist to solar energy from your own yard.
Solar Panel Mounting Systems
February 11, 2010 | Leave a Comment
After you purchase your solar panels, you will be faced with some decisions about their installation. How will your solar panels be mounted? What parts will you need? If you are like me, then no matter which direction you choose the system should be reliable and secure.
A popular method is to mount one’s solar panels on top of their roof. It is a simple and convenient solution, and so most folks attach their solar panels this way. Most often these mounting parts can be purchased right off the shelf.
We would like to point out a couple issues with mounting solar panels on the roof, however. They are things to keep in mind for folks who live in northern climates, or who desire more optimal performance.
The first issue is the snow. When snow builds up on your solar panels, this will drastically reduce your electricity. And if your solar panels are on the roof, then cleaning them can be a little tricky.
In the mountains of Washington and Colorado, we have been working on a solution. We are designers and craftsman who desire convenience and performance with our own home based solar power systems. And like everyone else, we don’t want to spend an arm and a leg. We call this solution the Rotek system.
In a Rotek installation, the solar panels are mounted on a ground based structure instead of the roof. This provides the clearances for adjustability, so that we can rotate the solar panels in any way. With this in place we can make seasonal adjustments to match the Sun.
The true advantage of this can be tapped during the Winter months. The solar panels can be steeply pitched or angled toward the ground, a negative tilt, so the snow cannot build on the photovoltaic surface. This rotational capability is also good for polishing the glass and general maintenance.
Whether for one snow storm or for a period of weeks, as long as there is snow on the ground you can leave your solar panels at negative tilt. As we have all witnessed, snow pack is highly reflective. Your system will continue to receive lots of beam radiation despite this abnormal tracking angle.
A second important consideration with solar panels is heat. Roof top structures will accumulate heat, and so roof mounted photovoltaics will tend to run warm. This is a disadvantage, at higher operating temperatures solar panels create less electricity. The ideal environment for a solar panel is something cool.
The Rotek system has the added benefit of running cool, because fresh air will circulate on the backside of the solar panels. The advantages with heat reduction are double. There will be an increase in electrical performance, and a general reduction in wear and tear from maintaining lower temperature.
Sooner or later the time will come to install your solar panels. The roof installed units will make a lot of sense, but those who want improved performance and adjustability should consider other options. The Rotek system is one such option, easy to install and simple to use without the extravagant cost.
Walter Hull is a mechanical engineer with expertise in solar power systems. For a short time you can get his free checklist to solar power from your own yard.
Power From The Sun - Free Solar Energy
February 9, 2010 | Leave a Comment
The Sun is like a giant power station, making solar energy for us each and every day. Without this daily dose of solar power, Earth would not be even close to the same. Literally the difference would be like night and day.
This solar energy arrives to Earth as electromagnetic radiation, where it is absorbed and utilized in the biosphere in numerous ways. The Sun and solar energy it emits is arguably the most essential element to our existence.
This electromagnetic radiation, also referred to as light waves, includes an entire spectrum of different wavelengths. X-rays are some of the shortest light waves, where as radio waves are some of the longest. Solar energy falls in between, composed mostly of infrared waves, waves (colors) visible to the human eye, and ultraviolet waves. Life on Earth has heavily adapted toward these wavelengths that we receive.
Solar energy plays a primary role in all biological and thermal interactions on the Earth. With the presence of carbon dioxide, water, and solar energy, plants are able to produce energy through a process called Photosynthesis.
Solar energy is also the primary element that forms weather patterns. The Sun warms the surface of the earth, whereby wind patterns develop. Solar energy is absorbed in the oceans, and this helps form the currents. Evaporation caused by solar energy is what fundamentally leads to clouds and thunderstorms.
The mountains, plains, oceans, and lakes, they too absorb solar energy and convert it to heat. Gradually everything becomes warm and wind patterns develop. Glaciers melt and create rivers. Rain storms distribute water, fill up aquifers, and sustain forests and plant growth. Ocean currents are set in motion.
Imagine if the Sun suddenly burned out, which scientists predict will happen someday. It is a reminder of the delicate balance to our existence, that Mother Nature will always hold the trump card to human prosperity. We should offer thanks for each and every day that we are blessed with the Sun.
Thinking about it like that, we should probably all wake in the Morning and give thanks to the Sun. It is the single item in our existence we take most for granted. What if the Sun disappeared for one day? Just think of the mayhem and chaos this would create. And think of all the solar energy that would be lost all over the world.
So if theres one thing for sure, its that solar energy is here to stay. We are solar energy, its the reason we can see, and reason we can eat. It is embedded in virtually everything that surrounds us. When the Sun goes, we will go with it.
The time has come now to discuss solar energy in different terms. Mankind has become clever these past few generations, and developed new methods to harness this energy. We now have ways to convert solar energy directly into electricity. And weve developed several new inventions for absorbing solar energy and making high temperature heat.
How practical is current technology for providing power to our homes? How much money will it cost, and how much will we save in the long run? What kind of new solar energy technologies are in development? We started out asking these same questions ourselves, and we are here as professionals from the Energy industry to present a few honest answers straight from the energy specialists.
To find out how to use solar energy as a budget source of electricity for your home get Walter Hull’s report on simple solar power from your land.
The Price Of Solar Panels Is Dropping
February 8, 2010 | Leave a Comment
New research on the life expectancy of this new kind of renewable energy has helped decrease the cost of solar panels. It was once estimated that solar panels would last only about 20 years, but it has now been proven that models can last up to 30 years. This makes it a more appealing investment for homeowners who were hesitant because of the short life expectancy.
Environmentally friendly institutes are even going as far as cheering on institutions of finance to make available the funding for purchasing and installing solar panels. Homeowners should have the option of installing this renewable energy because in a few years time they will eventually pay themselves off.
Governments across the globe including Europe and China have been listening to these environmentalists and have been offering incentive packages for the installation of solar panels. This has increased the demand and lowered the prices of solar panels. The US and India are expected to implement similar incentive plans for their citizens as well. This will push demand even further, and prices even lower.
This type of renewable energy usually pays for itself, as mentioned above, because the main costs are actually buying the panels and installation. After that, you do not have to pay for your energy source, unlike regular electricity.
There are optimistic goals set out in the renewable energy industry. Some experts in the field are setting their expectations as high as having half of Europe dependent on solar energy in comparison to electricity grids as soon as 2020. Not only that, but with increased demand and usage it will make solar energy as cheap as buying it from an electricity grid.
Increase demand for renewable energy is growing around the globe. This means that the solar panel industry will boom, creating more profits for the companies involved, allowing them to cut costs even further.
By learning how to build a solar panel, you can save money and even build a pool solar panel.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
February 7, 2010 | Leave a Comment
If we are serious about decreasing environmental pollution, then solar energy should be a part of the equation it isn’t a part of the problem, so it must be part of the solution. It’s recognized as an “alternative energy source”, as it isn’t widely used as a main source of power for very many people. It’s expensive to produce solar panels, and in today’s world, calculators and lawn decor are two of the most popular solar powered gadgets used by the mainstream. So, the burning question that could maybe help solve our planet’s current dilemma is, how do solar panels work? How does a panel harness the sun’s energy and turn it into electricity?
The basic answer is that certain materials are used to harness the sun’s energy and convert it into electricity which can be used to power our electronic devices. But it’s a bit more complex.
In today’s world, we’re using a growing technology called photovoltaic (PV) electricity. Special materials are used to turn the sun’s energy into electricity and it can be used immediately or stored in DC batteries.
Photovoltaic technology includes the use of specific materials that have been recently developed. These materials discharge electrons when persuaded and influenced by solar power. This creates a voltage potential as well as electricity flow. A photovoltaic panel is also called a ‘direct energy conversion device’ since all of these effects are taking place on an atomic level minus any moving parts.
Photovoltaic panels used to be restricted to space age technology. Satellites and space stations used them for their reliable and continuous conversion of solar power. Outer space has an advantage when it comes to solar energy since the sun’s radiation is, at the very least, 50% stronger out there than here on Earth.
A good candidate for solar energy is someone living a mile or more from an electrical grid since it’s a lot more costly to install power transmission cables than it is to install a solar panel kit. If this is you, then maybe it’s time to consider solar energy as your main power source.
Still, how do solar panels work? Understanding solar energy can help answer this question. Solar energy’s made up of two kinds of radiation, and the most desirable for solar panels is called “beam radiation”. This is what we feel when soaking up sun rays on the beach in June, when there’s not a cloud in the sky. Clear days are the best for collecting beam radiation, but the solar panel needs to be placed strategically to gather the most direct sun rays possible if you want to get the most from your solar panel.
The other kind of radiation is “diffuse radiation”. This radiation is strewn all over the place (as its name suggests). On a cloudy day, it’s the primary radiation source for a solar panel. It’s the same thing if you’re relaxing under a shade tree diffuse radiation is what you’re going to get. Unfortunately diffuse radiation isn’t very strong and relying on it alone for solar energy isn’t practical.
For solar panels to work efficiently, a sunny location is mandatory. Beam radiation is the most effective since it’s the strongest. Most of Western America qualifies as a good locale for beam radiation those states are good candidates for the use of solar energy, but northern climates and coastal states are usually quite cloud-laden and sadly, not worthy of 100% solar-reliance.
Solar panels can be set-up to meet your specific needs. 12 volt, 24 volt, and 48 volt DC systems are the most common. The life expectancy of 12 volt solar panels is well over 20 years and they fall in the range of 12-14% efficiency.
One reason that solar power is still considered an “alternative energy source” is due to the high cost of production. The silicon semi-conductor materials are costly, but new materials are being experimented with and they’re geared towards lowering the price of producing solar panels. This would make solar power more accessible to the “average Joe”, and in turn helping save our atmosphere.
It’s unfortunate that solar energy is still considered “alternative energy”, but that’s all changing. If you’re considering a conversion to solar power then there are specific considerations to be made upon deciding, but it’s definitely a step in the right direction for our planet. The benefits outweigh the cost as far as our environment is concerned, especially the long term effects. Energy independence is a common goal for all, and if you just want to consider solar energy as a back up plan, then the decision is practically already made for you. Why not? The environment will benefit greatly once solar panels become financially available to all.
For a free report on how solar panels work get more information here.
Solar Panels On Homes - A Good Or Bad Idea?
February 7, 2010 | Leave a Comment
People need to seriously consider alternative energy such as solar panels for homes. The world is facing a serious crisis in regards to energy. Solar energy is popular and the most talked about, cost effective alternative. Solar panels can be installed on a new or older home.
One can also make their own solar panels. This is far more cost effective. You will also be protecting the environment and help to alleviate the world energy crises by making the switch to solar. Solar energy is a renewable energy source which is obtained from the sun. This means that solar energy is abundant. As long as the sun exists, it will continue to exist.
Solar energy will create lighting within and without the home as well as warm the swimming pool and heat your water. It will allow pone to cook during the day as solar energy is converted into thermal energy and does not pollute the air or give off green house gasses like fossil fuels do.
When you have solar panels installed, one will always have solar energy even during a power failure. These solar panels do not affect ones health and they are not governed by political factors or capitalistic individuals, and are environmentally friendly. There are many gadgets as well as calculators, watches and computers that run on solar power as well.
Solar panels will save a homeowner an incredible amount and will also alleviate the dependency on gas as well as electricity generated from dirtier methods. Solar panels contain battery cells which will store excess energy for later usage. Usually these solar panels are placed on the roof of your home.
Specified outlets globally stock solar panels for homes and should you require further information you can go online and view all the options. If you truly want to make a difference on the planet, consider installing solar panels. They will not only save you money but can also increase the value of your property.
Home solar panel kits can give you everything you need to make solar panels for electricity generation.
Photovoltaic Solar Energy
February 6, 2010 | Leave a Comment
One of the more significant emerging technologies with solar energy has been photovoltaic (PV) electricity. Photovoltaics use special materials to convert solar energy directly into electricity. This electricity can be used immediately or stored in a bank of DC batteries.
How photovoltaic panels convert solar energy is a subject of advanced physics. In simple terms we can say they take advantage of new age materials and a phenomenon called the photoelectric effect. Solar energy on the atomic level displaces electrons, which in turn creates the flow of electricity.
Photovoltaics were originally developed as part of the space industry. The long life of the panels combined with no moving parts made them ideal for space bound equipment. Solar energy is much stronger outside the Earth’s atmosphere which also helps.
Within the last couple of decades photovoltaic panels have established mass production. They are often used for remote locations, residential homes, and sometimes small business. Remote locations are particularly good candidates for converting solar energy, as the cost of a photovoltaic array can be comparable or less than the cost to run power transmission cables to the site. If you are more than mile from the established Electrical Grid, and have a good amount of solar energy, then a photovoltaic array is worth consideration.
There are two types of radiation that are important and contribute to solar energy. The first is beam radiation, which are the direct rays of the Sun. Beam radiation is the strong warm rays we feel on a clear sunny day.
The second type of radiation is diffuse radiation. Diffuse radiation is scattered radiation, and is what we experience on a fully cloudy day. Diffuse radiation is not very strong, but still contributes to the total overall solar energy.
To utilize photovoltaic panels one should be in a location with a good amount of Sun. There are quite a few States in the Western U.S. that fit this criterion. The more beam radiation a location receives the better, as this can easily double the total amount of solar energy.
Photovoltaic panels can be connected in series or parallel to meet your solar energy needs. 12 volt, 24 volt, and 48 volt DC systems are common. Most PV panels fall in the range of 12 to 14% efficiency, and have lifetime expectancies of well over 20 years.
Ultra high purity silicone semi-conductor materials are involved in the modern construction of photovoltaic panels. Due to this, photovoltaics can be an expensive option for using solar energy. New materials are under development, however, and are aimed at lower the manufacturing cost. Cadmium Telluride based solar panels are one such technology. The price of solar panels is expected to fall in coming years if these new materials proceed.
If you are thinking about installing a photovoltaic system, then a quick analysis of your weather patterns and local Utility rates will help the cause. If considering a remote installation or emergency reserve backup system, then this decision could come easy. Regardless of your choice, photovoltaics are an interesting topic of discussion in the realm of self sustaining solutions pushing us toward energy independence.
Walter Hull is a recognized expert in solar energy power systems. For a limited time you can get his free checklist to solar energy from your own yard.