A Quick Guide For Homeowners
When you are looking for an eco-friendly way to power your home or your place of business, fewer options are more suitable than solar panels.
Solar panels are extremely popular as a source of renewable energy. Why? Because they can convert sunlight into electricity through the use of photovoltaic cells.
However, while panels are a popular option for most homeowners, they can be a somewhat daunting prospect to invest in. After all, how many people know the ins and outs of how solar panels will actually power their homes?
Fret no more, as in this guide, you will be guided through a jargon-free, step-by-step process of how solar panels will power your home.
The Cells in Solar Panels
These cells are made of semiconductor material, such as silicon, that absorbs photons (light particles) and releases electrons, creating a flow of electricity. When several PV cells are connected together, they form a solar panel. Solar panel installation services will ensure that the number of cells that you have on any installed solar panel will be sufficient for the power output of your home.
Absorbing Photons
The process of converting sunlight into electricity starts with the absorption of photons by the photovoltaic cells. These photons come from the sun and are absorbed by the semiconductor material in the cells. When the photons are absorbed, they release electrons from the atoms in the material. These electrons are then collected by metal contacts on the cells, creating a flow of electricity.
The Current
The electricity that is created by the process is in the form of DC (direct current). This means that the electrons flow in one direction only. However, most homes and businesses use AC (alternating current) electricity, where the electrons flow back and forth. To use the electricity that is created by the solar panels, an inverter is needed to convert it into AC electricity. The inverter takes the DC electricity that is made by the solar panels and converts it into AC electricity. It is AC electricity that can be used to light up your home.
What To Consider
One of the core things that homeowners need to consider with solar panels is the amount of sunlight that the panels receive. As you may have guessed, they work best when they are in direct sunlight for the majority of the day. Even if it is cloudy, the panels still need to be in the ideal position for maximum UV exposure.
Keep Them Cool
However, keeping them in direct sunlight can cause issues too! The panels are most effective when they are kept cool. This is because the process of converting sunlight into electricity generates heat, which can reduce the efficiency of the cells. In order to keep solar panels cool, they are often mounted on racks that allow air to circulate underneath them.
Angles Matter
The efficiency of your solar panels will also be affected by the angle at which they are mounted. The panels work better when they are mounted at an angle, as that enables them to receive the maximum amount of sunlight. So, be sure to hire a professional solar panel installer, as they will be able to help determine the right location and angle successfully.