How to Make a Solar Panel for Use In RV or Home   by Michelle O'Connor

 

How to Make a Solar Panel for Use In RV or Home

Article By Michelle O'Connor, Solar Battery Chargers

Solar panels produce electricity by using selective wavelengths of light. All they need is direct sunlight and low temperature to work optimally. There are kits and methods available for you to build your own solar panels. A homemade solar panel is an effective way to produce your own power and save on future power bills - for RV or home!

 

Build Your Own Solar Panel

You may use a solar panel kit to build your own solar panel. All the components required for setting up your solar panel are made available in most kits. These components are: solar cells, soldering iron, solder, flux, and tabbing. Kits include detailed instructions on how to make a solar panel. Constructing a solar panel at home does not require expertise. You may simply follow the step-by-step instructions available with the kit. A homemade solar panel is a big money saver.

The main advantage of building and installing a solar panel is that it is eco-friendly. Other forms of electricity emit certain harmful elements that contribute to smog, and other pollution, while solar power is free from such hazardous emissions.

You save money when you use solar power, especially when you build your own solar panel from a solar kit. There are no more electricity bills to pay! The initial installation cost is quickly recovered. If required, you may add more solar panels to generate more electricity. Most systems come with back-up batteries to provide electricity at night, or when it is cloudy.

The energy law passed by the US government in August 2005 allows a tax credit of 30 percent of the solar panel system's cost with a maximum of $2,000.

Types of Solar Energy Panels

There are two basic types of solar panels. Normal panels use solar energy to heat water for basic needs at home, or even for pools. The absorber converts the radiation from the sun into heat. The second type of solar panel, known as photovoltaic panels, converts light into electricity. These panels are normally installed on the roof. The electricity produced by these panels is directed to a battery, which serves as the electricity storage device. The battery can then supply all the electricity that your household needs.

Your homemade solar panel is made from a collection of solar cells. Each solar cell produces a small amount of electricity, but collectively they produce enough electricity to fulfill your household power needs. It is important for the panels to keep facing the sun to receive direct sunrays.

You can choose from a number of tracking solar mounts available. The single-axis tracker is fixed at a vertical angle. The angle is manually maneuvered to follow the path of the sun, which is based on seasonal changes. For summer, the rule of thumb is to set the panels at your latitude minus 15, and for winter, you may set the panels at your latitude plus 15. The dual-axis tracker adjusts the vertical angle automatically.

Your unique needs and requirements will dictate what type of solar panel is right for you. If making your own panel is not for you, keep your eye out for solar panel sales, you can often find great deals on these energy saving items if you time it right.
 

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