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Solar Panels: Heating or Electric!

Filed Under Business 

There are two basic types of solar panels. One type makes electricity, the other kind generates heat. They cannot be used in the same way, so you need to understand the difference. That aside, both will be of benefit to you if you are contemplating saving on energy bills.

The Different Solar Panels Revisited

Solar thermal collectors use the sun’s energy to heat water and other fluids, like oil. They typically use plastic tubing, hoses or coils in the panel. The liquid runs through the coils and is heated by the sun. These types of solar panels are great for heating pools, hot tubs, spas and water for homes and businesses. They can also heat building interiors by using baseboard heating units and hot water flooring systems. Once they are installed, there is usually no need for additional heating fuels. However, the systems usually require some kind of electric pump to circulate the fluids.

Another kind of solar panel uses solar photovoltaic cells to produce DC (direct current) electricity. The panels normally contain a semi-conductor material (silicon) which interacts with sunlight to create electricity. The electricity can then be used to run computers and appliances, or the whole house, if you build the system big enough. The electricity is only generated from the panels in daytime when they are receiving direct sunlight.

Solar Panels: Use To Make Domestic Power

In order to use a photovoltaic system at night or during cloudy days, the electricity has to be held in a battery storage system. You can use less expensive lead-acid batteries (like you car uses), but it will be necessary to ensure that they are filled with distilled water in order to maintain their charge. Some batteries are more expensive, but they have particular advantages. Sealed AGM (absorbent glass mat) batteries don’t need maintenance to retain their charge. Freeze-resistant gel batteries are best 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 situated in a location that faces south and provides optimal access to sunlight during the entire day. Solar panels can be used in almost any geographical location, but they will not function as well in regions that experience a high number of cloudy periods throughout the year.

It’s prudent to have a back-up supply in place even if you live in a sunny climate. You can even go that extra mile and make your own biodiesel if you decide to include a generator with your system And you’ll be glad you have one if your battery storage fails or there is a long period of overcast weather.

Take On the Energy Crises By Making Your Own Domestic Power: Find Out Here

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