Home Solar System – Useful Hints
You can expect additional solar cost when you pick wrong components or do wrong installation. Here are some tips to help you set up your home solar system properly:
- Understand your solar plan. What do you want the solar power generator to be? What is your preference: On-grid, Off-grid or Hybrid? On-grid or grid-tied means you have the solar kits integrated with the power grid of the utility company. In United States you can get credit from the utility company for the electricity pumped into the grid (net metering). Going off-grid is another choice if you live in a location with no power lines available. Hybrid means you combine the home solar system with another source of electricity such as gas generator or wind turbines.
- Solar batteries are needed especially for off-grid system. There are three different types of them, choose one that meets your needs and budget. Some of them need routine maintenance so do understand the procedure correctly.
Solar batteries can be connected together in either series or parallel wiring. If you connect two batteries of the same spec in series you will double the output voltage but the current will remain the same. Connecting the batteries above in parallel will double the output current but the voltage shall remain the same.
- What solar inverter is applicable to your grid option? There are some types available. Normally on-grid solar inverter doesn’t use batteries so they are cheaper than other types. If you experience blackouts frequently you may consider buying solar inverter that can serve both on-grid and off-grid application. In this case you can have the home solar system equipped with batteries.
- Electric solar panels are the electricity generator. Whenever possible you have to mount them facing south for maximum sun exposure. Never place them horizontally; they should be slant-mounted to prevent water accumulation on the glass pane. Although the panels are sealed you have to make sure there is no water entry from broken seals or cracked glass pane. Water entry is known to be the most culprits for panel’s failures.
- Solar charge controller or regulator is connected to the batteries. Some batteries need extra precautions during charging therefore find a regulator that can protect the batteries from overcharging. Overcharging will result in ruining the batteries or shortening their lifespan.
There are experienced companies that can help you deciding what set up will best suit your home solar system requirements. Contact them if you are in doubt.
To Your Solar Success
the SolarCost Admin
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