The Efficiency Of Residential Solar Power
A residential solar power system allows you to produce your own electricity and, for the most part, is designed to be linked up to the existing utility service. This system consists of solar PV panel modules, easy wiring that is virtually plug and play, special mounting kits and more. Many companies sell these solar kits, which can be self-installed or put into place by a professional but you should always ensure the system is code compliant with your current electrical needs.
What To Expect
There are two basic types of residential solar power systems that you can consider based on your particular budget and power savings needs. First there is a system that provides power to your home during the daylight hours but will not provide it in the event of a power outage, even when it is still daylight and sunny outside.
Another type of residential solar power system for the home involves the powering of your home during critical daylight hours in addition to providing a battery back-up that kicks in during outages as well as when critical power loads need to be met. Of the two main systems, this one will be more expensive but definitely the more desirable of the two.
Erasing The Confusion
Some people get confused and think a residential solar power system also produces hot water but this not accurate. The solar panels used in home systems convert the sun's rays into an electric current to provide power for electrical devices like lights, the refrigerator, television and more. In order to achieve solar heating for showers, baths and such, you would need special thermal panels which contain tubes that allow water to circulate and achieve warmth from the sun's energy before being funneled into the home.
A residential solar power system looks different from a solar thermal system and they are also installed in a different place. The solar PV panels that provide electricity are generally rather thin, up to two inches thick whereas the thermal panels that heat water have to be thicker in order to house the water pipes that need heating.
Is Solar Right For My Home?
Most homes can handle residential solar power systems because they are constructed to work with most traditional roofs. As long as your roof as about 120 square feet, you can get a small residential solar power system with larger ones requiring more square footage. The only requirement is direct sunlight for the solar panels to harness the maximum amount of energy possible to be converted into electrical current for your home.
