Due to the rise in pollution and global warming, there has been resurgence in looking to mother earth for energy that is safe and clean. These past years, solar power as an alternative source of electrical power has become more and more popular. If you are one of the people who are considering shifting to solar power systems to provide the electrical power your house needs, below are answers to some of the frequently asked questions that will help you arrive at a decision.
1. What is a residential power system?
A residential power system allows you to generate electrical power at your home through the use of solar panels.
2. How does a solar power system work?
A solar power system requires solar panels to be installed on your roof. These solar panels convert sunlight into electrical power which you can use to power certain appliances in your home.
3. Will a solar power system work at night and on cloudy days?
Solar power systems work on adequate direct sunlight, thus, you may need to stay connected to your electric company for electricity you can use at night. On the other hand, the system may still produce electricity on cloudy days but what is produced might be less than that which is produced under full sun.
4. Will a solar power system work on my home?
Solar power systems can work on most homes, as long as they are located in a place where there is an adequate amount of direct sunlight. There must be a sunny patch on your roof that is approximately 120 square feet (11 square meters) for small solar power systems, and as much as 1,000 square feet (93 square meters) for large solar power systems. Trees and structures that put most of your roof under the shade will reduce the efficiency of your system. Ideally, the part of your roof that faces south is the best site for the solar panels. However, solar panels may also be installed on areas facing west or east and will still be able to produce adequate power.
5. How many panels will I need for my house?
To determine how many solar panels your house needs, you have to consider elements such as your average daily electrical usage, climate in your area, angle of your roof and shading problems. Multiplying your average daily electrical consumption in kilowatt-hours by 0.25 will result in the approximate size of solar array that you need to meet your household's electrical demand.
6. How much will installing a solar power system cost?
Solar power systems can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $40,000. This is a sizable amount for an initial investment. However, note that some states in the United States have rebate and incentive programs that offer homeowners and small businesses a reimbursement of as much as 50% of initial costs.
7. How long does a solar power system last?
Solar power systems are highly durable, owing mostly to the fact that that they hardly have any moving parts at all. Most of the components can continue working very well for many years while the batteries will only need to be replaced every five to 10 years. Maintenance cost is also very low.
These are only some of the questions you might want answered if you are thinking of shifting to a solar power system for your home. We hope that it will help you decide on an electrical source that best meets your household's needs.
Alex Harvey is dedicated to helping YOU save money on your power bill. Visit his Earth 4 Energy website right now to see the best course on the net to utilize wind and solar power. Go there now --> http://www.getearth4energy.com
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