Will Solar Panels Work On My House?
If you've been wondering whether or not you can install solar panels on your house, there are several factors to consider. Things like the direction that your roof faces and the placement of trees in your yard can make a difference. You will also need to know whether or not you want your electrical system tied to the local utility grid.
Here are some things to consider. Many states provide rebates and incentives for installing solar energy. These incentives can help offset the cost or cover it completely. If, however, you want to make solar panels that are not connected to the grid, say for a cabin or if you live in a remote area. In anycase a lot of preplanning and research will help you save money and time.
Grid Tied vs. Non Grid Tied Systems
The most important issue is whether your system will be grid tied or off grid. Grid tied means that your electric system will be hooked up to the local electric utility company. You solar panels will generate electricity that can run your appliances as long as the sun is shining on your solar panels. At night and during weather when the sun isn't out, your appliances will run on utility company electricity.
An off grid system runs independently and is not hooked up to a utility company. They are more common in rural areas where utility poles are distant and hookups are extremely expensive. Off grid systems use batteries (similar to car batteries) to store excess electricity, and usually have back up generators for emergency situations. Appliances run off the solar panels during the day, and the batteries or generator during the night or during inclement weather.
Planning & Research Saves Money
For both grid tied and off grid systems, the roof pitch, direction it faces, and nearby objects that cast shade are all factors affecting where you can place solar panels. They need access to direct sunlight for as much of the day as possible for optimal efficiency. Large trees that shade the roof as well as taller buildings that might block the sun need to be taken into consideration. Since each house has a different combination of these factors, each house must be individually evaluated. Accurate measurements and surveys, as well as a site inspection by a knowledgeable installer will produce the necessary information for the best solar panel configuration for your house.
Related topics about solar panels and renewable energy
wind turbines and birds
At first glance wind energy generated from turbines seems like a great renewable energy source, but you might think twice about it if you were a bird in Californina. That's because one of the oldest wind farms – the Altamont Pass California wind turbines are responsible for killing thousands of birds each year.
how much solar energy will my house need
If you are thinking about installing a residential solar energy system in your home, you will need to know your current energy consumption. Usually, you can get this information from your local utility company. Using this as a basis, you will be able to design your solar energy system to fit the needs of your house.
introduction to residential wind turbine
With the rapidly growing need and demand for renewable energy sources, there are a number of residential options that you can use to get in on the act. One of these is the residential wind turbine which might be something that you haven't thought about. These turbines are typically located on top of a tower usually at a high point in your property.
