Solar power systems for home come in a wide variety of types and sizes.  One of the first things you’ll need to know is exactly how you’ll be using your free energy.  The PV cells of a solar array absorb the sun’s ultraviolet rays and convert that energy into electric current… but that doesn’t mean you can use it right away.  The ‘juice’ created by the photovoltaic process is direct current (DC) and needs to be changed to alternating current (AC) before it can be used for your household electric needs.  This requires the use of an inverter.  There are some uses for DC current within the household, but most solar power in homes consists of electricity that’s been already transformed into a more standard usable form.

The next thing to consider is how you’ll be gathering this free, clean, renewable energy from the sun!  When most people think of home solar heating panels they think of those great big monstrosities that used to clutter rooftops back in the 70’s and 80’s.  Those ugly eyesores did little to promote the industry, and if anything they hurt the image of solar energy for decades to come.  Luckily in today’s world, advances in PV cell technology have made it so that you can harness the sun’s rays in a multitude of new ways. 

Rooftop solar panels installation is much simpler, easier, and a LOT more attractive these days!  Panels are smaller and better looking, and they can be mounted flush to the roofline.  Solar shingles are another way to go… you can build entire home photovoltaic systems that look the same as asphalt shingles or ceramic glazed roofing.  By tiling the top of your home with thousands of these tiny cells, you can harness free green energy year-round.  These systems go up easily with just a few solar panel installation classes, and in a few days or even hours you can begin lowering your electric bills while making the planet a cleaner place to live.

Solar heaters for pools are another popular do it yourself project.  You can install a diy solar pool heater in just a matter of hours, saving you hundreds of dollars over the summer in pool heating costs.  Either the sun warms water in an insulated tank, or a vacuum tube system is utilized to make the most of the day’s UV rays.  Water tanks can also be used in the home – for showers, dishwashers, washing machines, or anywhere hot water is required.

You can even take solar energy classes that will instruct you on the guidelines of step by step solar system setup.  From determining the angle of installation to drilling the struts that will support the array, one of the best ways to learn is through watching home solar panel kit videos.  The visuals and knowledge obtained by learning from these videos will give you the confidence to begin solar panels installation on any scale project, small or large.   You don’t have to have previous experience with any type of green energy – the instructions are all that you need.

And when it comes to installation, usually only a few small tools are required: a laser level, a chalkline, a drill and a socket set.  In most cases connectors will snap together, but you may also need a soldering gun.  The hardware that comes with a home solar power kit is designed to attach to the backs of your PV panels and then be bolted or clamped right to the mounting struts.  In many cases these mounts will be adjustable so you can tilt them toward the sun no matter which month it is.  This allows you to maximize your solar exposure as the sun changes position (relative to your roof) throughout the year.

Thanks to technology, inventions help make life easier for us. It all started with the solar calculator. From there, people discovered that the sun can be used for regeneration – just like how Superman re-charges by flying to the sun whenever he is weakened by kryptonite.

One of the latest inventions concerning solar energy is the solar pool heater. Pushing the envelope further, solar home heating can also be done. This was basically inspired by the experience of getting burnt once your skin gets in contact with water (primarily from hose) that has been sitting out on the sun for too long. This is called passive solar water heating.

Before the beginning of the 21st century, states like Los Angeles and Florida have already taken advantage of passive solar hot water systems. There were a number of sytems using solar water heating that are located in the mentioned states’ roof tops.

Nowadays, the solar water heater is referred to as PSWH, Bread Box and Batch Heater. However, the technical term for this contraption is the Integrated Collector and Storage System or ICS for short.

Usually starting with 40 gallons of water in a lined tank made of glass, these systems come in the form of electric water heaters. With its temperature engine, the owner must only set it under the sun and it’s good to go. It is also painted black because studies show that dark colors attract heat more than light colors.

Make sure that the box had been well insulated in order to prevent the loss of energy. Also, the insulation amount is dependent on the climate. Ideally, the box has the measurements of either 2 X 4s or 2 X6s. Fiberglass insulation is also often installed. For aesthetic purposes, the owner may choose to have his box painted in such a way that would match it to the area where it is placed.

The size of the box must be large enough for the tank. It must also be big enough to get as much sun as it possibly can. If the glass capability is 1 sq ft. 2 ½ gallons is the ideal amount of water in it.

Both having an inlet and an outlet, the method on how you attach these makes the difference. Plumbing wise, the cold water inlet comes with a tube extending underneath the tank. The purpose is to bring the cold water to its designated area. Whereas the hot water outlet’s responsible to take the hottest water to the top of the tank.

If the system were to be installed on a roof, then it must be attached spread wide over the rafters which could later on be obstacles for the whole heating process. Make sure that your system gets sunshine in the morning and in the afternoon. Because if not, it only defeats the entire process of getting one.

In general, shorter plumbing is more efficient because it lessens the potential of freezing. The possibility of freezing 49 gallons of liquid is much less compared to longer plumbings. If the tank is installed next to the water heater, then the freezing potential is lessened but not entirely eradicated.

The plumbing between the PSWH and the water heater are both insulated and this is exposed on the exterior pipes. Therefore, it is best that you insulate your plumbing in the attic areas.

Here are the steps in installing your solar home water heater:
1. Supply cold water to the tank. The hot water outlet is already installed to the cold water inlet. The process involves the solar water getting into the water heater and on a level above the thermostat setting.

2. If you’re wondering which temperature to set your PSWH at, it really depends on a lot of factors: the ambiance of the air, the amount of sunshine obtained by the system, the usage of insulation, the supply water’s temperature and finally the demand of the hot water – both through the inlet and the outlet.

Ideally speaking, the water temperature can go beyond 180 degrees F. install a tempering valve. In that way, you will be able to control the temperature before it seeps through the faucet.

3. The demand of hot water depends on other attributes that can be answered by considering these questions. Are there shower aerators that are low-flowing? Is there a water heater blanket? Is the thermostat set at 120 degrees F? Do you use hot water often?

Just like any invention, the solar water home heater is a treat having in your household, just as long as you know how to properly use it.

Spring is in the air, and now would be a great time to think about ways to contribute to the environment. One way to do so, if you have an outdoor swimming pool, is to consider a solar pool heating system. Not only will it save you money, it will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The system is fairly simple to create. The pool provides the thermal storage, so there is no need to purchase anything for this particular aspect. And, the pump that is currently used to filter the water in the pool will also circulate the water through the solar collectors.

Pool Cover

A pool cover will drastically save on heating costs and cost, on average, around $120. Not only that, but this will also reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that are harmful to our environment. David Boehmer states, “…all other pool heating methods…should only be used in conjunction with a pool cover. Not to do so would be like running your house air conditioner during August with the doors and windows open. The system will still work, but the operating cost will be as much as three times higher.” Visit the United States Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy website to peruse estimates of how much it costs to heat a pool with and without a pool cover.

One of the reasons swimming pool covers are so effective is due to the loss of water incurred through evaporation. A pool cover alone can provide up to 50%-70% savings. There are various types of pool covers that you can consider in your purchasing decision. Bubble (or solar) covers are probably the least costly. Vinyl covers, however, are made of a thicker material and tend to have a longer life expectancy than bubble covers.

As stated, pool covers provide savings in your energy costs. However, they also have the following benefits:

* They conserve water by reducing the amount of make-up water needed by 30%-50%

* They reduce the pool’s chemical consumption by 35%-60%

* They reduce cleaning time by keeping dirt and other debris out of the pool

Solar Swimming Pool Heaters

A solar pool heater can significantly reduce the costs you acquire through heating your pool. Not only are they similar in price with other heating options, but they also have extremely low annual operating costs. When compared in many climates, they actually come out on top as being the most cost effective. These types of swimming pool heaters generally last longer than their gas and heat pump counterparts. With proper maintenance, they can last anywhere from ten to twenty years. Here is what is usually included in solar swimming pool heaters:

* A solar collector – the device through which pool water is circulated to be heated by the sun

* A filter – removes debris before water is pumped through the collector

* A pump – circulates water through the filter and collector and back to the pool

* A flow control valve – automatic or manual device that diverts pool water through the solar collector

The material that solar pool collectors are made of varies, and the specific type you will need is dependent on what climate you live in.

Solar energy is the most perspective source of energy of the future. It has so many advantages that it would be hard to describe them all. Here is tiny list of solar energy advantages that should help you to make right decision.

• Solar energy is a completely renewable resource. Sun will shine about 5 billion years and all this time we can get free power from it. Although it may disappear behind a clouds for few moments, but it will always come back in full force.
• Solar energy does not create pollution. This is the most important advantage that makes solar power so much more perspective than oil. While solar energy doesn’t harm ecology, oil burning releases harmful greenhouses gases into our precious air.
• Solar panels and solar lighting may seem quite expensive when you first purchase it, but you need to remember that that is onetime fee. Solar panels will last about 20 or even 30 years.
• You can use power of sun to heat water in your pool. Solar pool heater can extend your swimming pool season by few months.
• Solar powered panels and products are typically extremely easy to install. Wires, cords and power sources are not needed at all, making this an easy prospect to employ.
• Solar power technology is improving consistently over time, as people begin to understand all of the benefits offered by this incredible technology. As our oil reserves decline, it is important for us to turn to alternative sources of energy.
• Solar power can light your garden or backyard at night. Solar post lights can became solution for you if you don’t have access to electrical grid or if you want to make your house more eco-friendly and save electricity.

The main question you may ask yourself, “Should you go solar?” that depends on you. Global warming rising energy bills and energy dependence affects all of us. Everyone can become part of the solution. Solar energy is one of the best ways to help our environment and to save your many.

For more information about solar energy please visit http://www.mysolarpower.org

Swimming Pool Solar Heaters

f you are interested in learning exactly how to generate power and reduce your bill then this is the perfect resource for you! With the ever increasing costs of living, there is no better time than right now to stop throwing money out the window and start generating our own electricity.

“But I thought solar power was
expensive and complicated?”

When I first became interested in solar energy (many years ago), I thought I would never be able to afford the solar panels. I was astounded when I was given a quote of $28,000 for a simple installation. This prompted me to do some research into how the solar panels are created.

I discovered solar power can be very affordable
for the average person and it’s not complicated at all!

What if I told you that you can build your own solar panel or windmill for $200 or less!? It’s true! After extensive testing I have now made these plans available to everybody worldwide!

I have a great passion for the environment and I want as many people as possible to start generating their own electricity. My goal is to get your home running on free, renewable energy – Starting today…

After 15 years of industry experience I thought it was time to share the secrets of solar power. The biggest secret; It’s easy to make quality solar panels for a fraction of retail price! While I do have a lot of experience I realize that most people don’t know the first thing about making solar panels.

That’s why I have written my manual in simple, easy-to-read English, with clear illustrations that will guide you through the whole process. My manual was created with the complete novice in mind so I will basically hold your hand through the build and installation process.

After writing my manual I wanted to know if “the average person” could generate their own power simply by following my guide. I set out to find my test subjects who wanted to “go green” and found 11 people who knew nothing about generating power. I was very happy to see that all of my test subjects were able to generate enough electricity to power their household appliances!

The solar panels and wind generators that my test subjects created look amazing!

Remember, these members knew absolutely nothing about creating energy.
If they can create renewable energy, than anybody can!

Green power is heating up more and more. Especially solar power, quite literally in the case of solar thermal power. Nowadays, it’s not a question of if solar thermal can work for you. It’s more like, “What can solar thermal do for you?” And that is no small amount. Between PV and solar thermal, you can harness enough solar energy to fulfill all your home energy needs.

What is solar thermal?

As opposed to photovoltaics (PV), which converts sunlight directly into electricity, solar thermal collects the sun’s heat and uses it to address several needs around the home. Typically, solar collectors gather solar energy to heat water or some other heat transfer fluid. That harnessed heat is then used to heat the home’s water supply or to heat or cool the living space. Solar thermal power can also be used to create electricity, although this is more common on the larger, commercial scale.

What can solar thermal do for you?

Solar thermal power has four main uses for the average residential home. These can be used singularly or in conjunction to make your home more energy independent.

• Solar Water Heating is the most common, and easiest, solar thermal application. Solar hot water systems may be active or passive. Put simply, solar collectors heat water in a storage tank, which in turn flows to the house, providing hot water for the shower, bath, and sinks. Hot water systems are the most cost-effective type of solar system. A solar hot water system can save a family of four $300 per year, providing up to 80% of their water-heating needs.
• Solar Space Heating is more expensive than water heating, but nonetheless is a very real possibility for solar thermal systems. They are most cost-effective in cold, sunny climates where they can be used year-round and can provide 40-80% of your heating needs. Solar space heating can also be active or passive and can be air- or liquid-based. In solar thermal heating, air or some liquid (commonly water or anti-freeze) is heated and then transferred to the living space via a heat-transfer medium and pumps in an active system. Passive solar thermal heating is possible through a variety of building-integrated technologies.
• Solar Space Cooling is on the cutting edge of solar thermal technology. It is still quite rare for residential applications but is also quite possible. It works by using solar heat and either a desiccant or absorbent to extract the humidity (or the warm part) from air and direct the resulting dry, cool air into the home – proving, after all, that solar thermal power is cool!
• Solar Pool Heating is another great opportunity for you to use solar thermal power. From solar pool covers to active systems tied into your pump, solar pool heating can drastically lower the energy used to heat pools. Solar pool heaters may cost up to $4,000 but can pay for themselves in five years or less!

If you are like so many other people who have woken up to the concept of above ground swimming pools then there are a few things that you may want to consider before you get started shopping around. For one thing,  above ground swimming pools offer far more affordable options than a standard cement built in and you may want to consider them all prior to making your purchase.

A Complete Above Ground Pool Kit

To start with, the first decision you are going to have to make is whether to purchase your pool and all its components separately or combined in a package. As far as savings go, you are much better off with a package. However; if you plan on adding custom features such as a solar pool heater you may want to opt to make separate purchases.

You May Want a Smaller Pool for Young Kids

People often tend to assume that bigger is better when it comes to above ground swimming pools but this is far too often simply not the case. For instance, if your pool is primarily to be used by younger children you may want to consider a smaller pool with no deep end.

Smaller Above Ground Pools Are Cheaper to Accesorize

You will not only save money on the initial purchase of a smaller pool but because of its smaller size it will be far more affordable to accessorize. A complete, prefabricated, natural wood, wrap around deck will be cheaper to buy as will the smaller safety cover for the pool.

Kids do Require Safety Features

Also, with the savings you can bring a nice pool slide as well as a custom “coral reef” pool liner into the equation which the kids will love. With these savings on the entire project you can well afford the safety features you will need for smaller kids such as a deluxe retractable pool ladder and a fence.

Take a Look Through a Child’s Eyes

Then there are all the great pool toys that are now available to choose from. It is important to remember that kids have a completely different outlook on swimming pools that adults do. For kids above ground swimming pools are play areas and they often prefer a shallow pool that they can stand up in safely and comfortably.

A solar collector is a device which is essential to any solar heating system. It gathers the sun’s energy, converts it into heat, and then transfers the heat into water, air, or solar fluid. This device is mainly used in water heating systems, pool heaters, and space heating systems.

The amount of solar energy which strikes the earth’s surface in any given area depends on the location and weather conditions. But it averages out to around 1,000 watts per square meter, under good weather conditions, when the surface of the earth is perpendicular to the sun?s rays. To fully harness this energy, the solar collectors need to be positioned properly.

Types of Solar Collectors

There are three basic types of solar collectors.

The first type is the flat-plate collector. This is the most common type, and is used in homes for water and space heating systems. It usually consists of an insulated metal box, with a plastic or glass cover, and a dark absorber plate. It can be used to heat air or to heat liquid, at temperatures lower than 180 degrees Fahrenheit.

Then there?s the liquid flat-plate collector. It works by heating liquid as it flows through tubes that are adjacent to the absorber plate. The simplest liquid systems would use potable water which is heated as it passes through the collector and then flows back into the building. Some solar pool heaters use this type as well.

Finally, there is the air flat-plate collector, which is commonly used to heat air. In this case, the absorber plates can be made from either metal sheets, or from layers of screen. The air would be passed through the absorber by the use of a fan, or by natural convection. It should be noted that less heat is conducted by air than by water. This method is thus probably the least is least effective, amongst the different types of solar collectors.

Positioning

Solar collectors can be placed on the roof, but they must face the sun. If you?re in the southern hemisphere, it should be placed on a north-facing roof, while the opposite is true for those living in the northern hemisphere.

In a very sunny location, sunny, a 2 to 10 square-meter array might suffice to provide hot water for a standard-sized family home.

Due to the fact that space and water heating eats up most of the energy consumption of the household, utilizing a system such as this is an important factor in maintaining sustainable housing. Financially, if you are looking to invest in solar power for your home, the installation of a solar water heating system is usually the best way to start, as the investment-to-savings ratio is usually best with solar water heaters. This would of course have to be researched independently, for your living circumstances and location.

If you want to continue using you pool when the weather starts turning cold, you need some kind of pool heater. There are many types to choose from – electric, gas or solar pool heaters. Let’s discuss solar heaters for swimming pools in more details, to see if it will work for your pool.

Solar heater for swimming pools – how does it work?

Unlike other types of solar powered devices, solar pool heater works rather simple. Solar panels collect heat from the sun. They are typically installed on your roof or next to the pool. A pump forces water from your swimming pool through a filter that leads it into a solar collector. The water heats up in the collector then returns into the pool through the pump.

This won’t allow you to swim in January, of course. But it will make swimming comfortable when the weather just turned to be too cold for a comfortable swim. In climates with cold winter, installing a swimming pool heater can bring your swimming season up to five, six month a year, when without it you would only swim two or three month. Generally speaking, on a sunny day a solar heater can raise your pool water temperature by 7 to 10 degrees.

How big a heater is needed and how much will it cost?

The size of a swimming pool heater you need depends on the size of your pool and the climate in your aria. For bigger pools and colder places you need bigger solar heaters. The price of your heater is usually proportionate to its size. Heaters with 2′x20′ panels are the most popular. The price is about 150 dollars per panel. A set of two panels will keep an 18′-24′ pool warm. For bigger pools you will need more panels.

Installing your solar pool heater

Unlike solar water heaters, pool heaters are fairly easy to install. Every set should come with instructions. First you connect the panels to a pump. Than place the panels where the sun can heat them up. You can mount the panels to your roof or position them by the pool using frames available from the dealer. At first you will notice that the panels get very hot, but after a few minutes they will cool down.

Maintaining your solar heater for swimming pool

Your heater doesn’t actually require any maintenance. However it is important to keep balanced water chemistry. Also check the filter once in a while to assure that it is working properly.

Investing in a solar heater for swimming pool is a good idea. After you pay the initial cost, the heat will be free. Unlike other types of swimming pool heaters, solar heater will not increase your energy bill. And it will extend your swimming season, which can be very beneficial especially for your kids.