Is DIY Home Solar Power Right For You?
February 15th, 2009
With increased awareness of global warming and rising energy prices, many of us realise the benefits of alternative energy sources. The cost of solar panels can be quite high (even with Government rebates), which makes DIY home solar power a very attractive option.
The advantages of DIY home solar power
If you have a sense of adventure, you want to do your bit to save the environment or even just to save some money, DIY home solar power makes a lot of sense.
Solar power is freely available, and can be converted into electricity that can power your home. Solar kits can be quite efficient. The amount of electricity generated will depend on a combination of factors – the number of solar panels used, the wattage of the panels, and the amount of sunlight the panels receive.
DIY home solar power is almost maintenance free after installation. Manufacturers state the average lifespan of the solar panels is over thirty years. DIY home solar power is also silent and emission free. Remember that you must take into account your initial investment versus the amount of time taken to recoup your investment.
You must also factor in the location for your DIY home solar power system. You will need a large enough area that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day. If you are considering using your roof, what is the pitch (angle) of the roof, and are you comfortable walking on the roof? You may want to hire a contractor to install the system for you.
What types of DIY Home Solar Power are available?
Stand-Alone Home Power
Your stand alone solar power generator can supply some or all of your electricity. This does not have to be connected to the grid, and is a great solution for those living in remote areas.
DIY Hybrid Home Solar Power
By connecting your solar panels to the mains electricity grid, you have the best of both worlds. When you are generating a surplus of electricity, you will create a credit with your power company (you can actually watch the meter run backwards!). In times of lower production, for example a cloudy day, you can draw power using your credit.
What DIY Home Solar Power options are available?
Ready made kits are available from your local solar supplier or on the Internet. Many people have chosen DIY home solar power kits because all the necessary parts are in the kit, and they are easy to install. You may want to customize your set-up once you gain more knowledge of how solar power works.
Many people are building their DIY home solar power set-ups using a guide book, sourcing readily available parts locally or from eBay. I have reviewed an ebook recently that shows you how to build you solar panels in a weekend for less than $200 using this approach.
So why not make your own DIY Home Solar Power system? It’s a great way to contribute to saving the planet, and saving money at the same time!
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- DIY home solar power – an attractive alternative?
- Are Diy Solar Power Kits Right For You?
- Solar power : Is it really possible for your home
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Tags: Solar Power