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<title>Latest Articles by Burtonimus</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>Solar Power How To: On The Grid Or Off?</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/solar-power-how-to-on-the-grid-or-off.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/solar-power-how-to-on-the-grid-or-off.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 01 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ More and more homeowners are becoming interested in solar power systems because it's not only a way to save money but it is also helpful for the environment. That is a combination that is hard to beat. Like other things, solar how to power systems come with a glossary of terms all its own. That adds to the confusion of the homeowners contemplating this move.

A common question for homeowners with little solar power how to is whether or not they should be on the grid or off. It may be beneficial to begin with a basic definition; if the solar system is connected to the utility company it is on the grid. Similarly, if the solar power system is off the grid it is not connected to the utility company.

For the best efficiency it is suggested to have the solar power system connected to the utility grid. If it is off the grid the system must store energy through the use of batteries. Systems on the grid have the luxury of the utility company storing the energy. Just as with any other home the utility company will track the kilowatts used on an hourly basis.

On sunny days, solar how to systems will work very efficiently. During that time the systems produce more energy than is being used which means that the electric meter will actually run backwards thus building energy credits.

One of the wonderful things about solar power systems is that they do not have any moving parts so they work silently. As sunlight falls on the solar array DC electricity is generated. The inverter works to transform that electricity into AC electricity, which is what is used in homes.

Automatically and silently the electricity is fed into the electric meter and circuit breaker panel. From there the electricity will be used to power household lights and appliances or it will go to the grid, and sometimes a portion of the power will go to each.

Because the system relies on sunlight for power it does not work efficiently on cloudy days or after nightfall. The electricity output will be drastically reduced or even stopped during those periods. Additionally, during the winter when the days are shorter less electricity will be generated. But if the solar how to power system is connected to the grid power will be available at all times.

All solar power systems will save money on the utility bill but how much money will vary according to variations in the weather and the usage of electricity. Although homeowners may generate virtually all the energy needed to power their home it is unlikely that the utility bill will ever be completely eliminated. That is primarily because most utility companies charge at least a minimum payment for connection to the grid; this charge can be as low as $15 per month.

Being off grid means that the solar power system is not connected to the utility power grid at all. In that situation the energy produced is stored in batteries. In this case the homeowner does not pay a monthly utility bill. But being off the grid can be more expensive than being on it. A major expense will be the batteries needed to store the power in.
The batteries will need to be replaced from time to time so this is an on-going cost. Even so, there are various reasons that make this option attractive. Being free of the grid and utility companies provides a unique feeling of independence. For homeowners living in a remote area being off the grid may be the logical solution to meet the required power needs.

The decision to go with solar power is often an easy one to make but when it comes to the details homeowners with little solar power how to are often confused. Before making any decisions it is suggested that careful research be completed. This will ensure that the homeowner has a clear understanding of the options available as well as what will be the most efficient system for any specific home.

The popularity of solar power is destined to continue. As technology advances the initial cost involved may decline. Even with the high cost of the set up solar polar systems provide many advantages. ]]></description>
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<title>Solar How To: How Solar Power Works on a Small Scale</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-how-solar-power-works-on-a-small-scale.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-how-solar-power-works-on-a-small-scale.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Solar power isn't a newly created idea to help reduce CO2 emissions. The first solar power research began in the early 1950s. In the 1970s, President Carter started promoting a renewable energy source. The 1980s and 1990s saw several breakthroughs in solar energy production. Some predict that half of the world's households will rely in part on solar power by 2015.

Campgrounds and RV parking areas often supply electrical outlets for use by campers and travelers. A small, inexpensive solar panel can be built for about $300 and used as a mobile unit or attached to an RV. With the economic worries of 2007-2008 showing little chance for reprieve, those who enjoy camping and travel are seeking more dependable sources of power for electronic devices.

Solar power is quickly becoming a viable source of household electricity around the world. What began as an environmentally sound move by people who are concerned about the environment is becoming mainstream practice. Solar energy is the most talked-about alternative to fossil fuel. The sun produces more than 10,000 times the amount of power used in the world per year. The two types of solar power that are considered the most are solar electric and solar thermal.

Solar Thermal

The basic idea behind solar thermal is that the sun heats water that gets circulated through the home or office. The water helps maintain the temperature of the space. A glycol solution or water is circulated through heat exchangers. The sun heats the liquid and the exchangers help cycle the water through the home or office. Brick, stone, asphalt and concrete also hold a great amount of heat and release it slowly over time. Solar how to websites cover a wide range of information including solar thermal.

Solar Electric Power

Electricity is produced using power from the sun by using photovoltaic (PV) cells. A chemical reaction caused when the sun hits the PV cells creates electricity. The PV cells are made of smaller cells. In order to produce a useful amount of electricity, cells are combined to create solar panels. The combined amount of electricity produced by each cell produces a specific amount of electricity. The resulting electricity can be stored in batteries or used as it's produced.

PV cells produce solar panels. Using a single solar panel produces about 12 volts of direct current and may help reduce utility costs in a small way. Solar panels may be wired together to create a solar array. The more solar panels used per project, the more power will be stored or used. The amount and intensity of sunlight, cloud cover and other weather conditions may affect the amount of power produced by solar panels.

One of the most commonly asked questions is "What happens on cloudy days?" Cloudy days can indeed decrease the amount of power your solar panels produce. Because of this, it is highly recommended that your home remain connected to the company that provides electricity in your area. When your panels produce an excess of power, your utility bill will be reduced. When they do not produce enough power, you will still be covered by your local utility company.

Solar Powered Planet

The sun is about 93 million miles from Earth. Solar power and solar energy are not new concepts. Our planet has used solar energy since the beginning of time. Without solar energy, life on Earth would not exist. The absence of solar energy would mean no plants, heat, food or people. The creation of products and technologies to help mankind harness some of that power was inevitable. Solar energy may even help reduce or reverse the decline of natural resources caused by fossil fuels.

While it is true that present manufacturing of solar components uses fossil fuels, the day is quickly coming when fossil fuels will be removed from the equation. As it stands now, use of fossil fuels are helping produce products that emit no pollution. The manufacturing process will be redefined as time allows.

Is Solar Right for You?

Each person has to make that decision on their own. Do your research on solar. How would it affect your quality of life? How would it impact your finances? Does your current location receive enough sunlight to allow proper function of solar panels? These questions and many more will help you make the decision. In the meantime, many utility companies are researching solar and finding ways to implement it on a much broader scale. ]]></description>
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<title>Solar How To Power Systems: How To Determine The Proper Size</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-power-systems-how-to-determine-the-proper-size.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-power-systems-how-to-determine-the-proper-size.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 31 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ One of the most vital steps in the set up of a solar how to power system is determining the appropriate size of the required components. Many do-it-yourselfers have enough solar how to information to accomplish this task without any assistance. But for remote systems (systems completely off the utility grid) or critical applications extensive analysis is required and therefore the advice of a professional is suggested.

The sunlight levels received and the daily power consumptions are the two main considerations used in determining the needed size of a solar power unit. The best orientation to maximize the benefits for a solar how to system is at the true solar south.

This position can be easily be determined by dividing the span of time between the sunrise and sunset in half. The position of the sun at the resulting time is the true solar south.

The insulation is simply the sunlight intensity measured in equivalent full sun. This is equal to approximately 1000 watts per square meter at high noon in most locations. Two factors must be considered in determining insulation: the reflection due to a high in relationship to the solar array and the amount of the atmosphere that the light is traveling through.

In the United States the insulation measurement is highest during June to July and lowest during December and January. All measurements must be considered over a period of time and averaged in order to accurately determine the appropriate component sizes.

Any shade can drastically reduce the output of a solar how to system. Therefore it is always suggested that the units be completely free from shade or at a minimum the spot should be clear from about 10am to 2pm.

It is strongly recommended that the nominal DC voltage requirements be determined up front. This solar how to data will insure that the solar power system can efficiently meet the demands required of it. The information needed can be acquired by contacting your utility company and requesting the details of your power usage. Another option is to use a power meter which can accurately calculate all AC loads.

A major component in the solar power system is the battery. Battery sizes are measured in amp hours. In other words, amp hours are the measure of the battery capacity. This is actually a measurement of the amount of amps of flow or which can be provided over a one hour period. The nominal output of all lead-acid batteries is two volts.

Inverters, which convert DC to AC electricity, are rated according to the watts they can continuously power. Surge watts refer to how much power the inverter can support for a very brief period of time. This measurement is important because some actions require an amount of power that is much higher than the normal amount needed. This would include things such as starting a motor of some sort.

In order to determine the appropriate inverter size the wattage of the items that will potentially operate at the same time must be added. It is critical that this calculation be as accurate as possible. Because the inverter is responsible for the conversion from DC to AC electricity appropriate sizing is essential to achieving desired results.

Items that require 220 or 240 volts will require the installment of a step-up transformer or a stacked interface of two inverters. Transformers are used to increase or step up AC voltage.

If year-round reliability is to be achieved then calculations using the most extreme figures should be used to assess the solar array sizing. The array refers to the grouping of the photovoltaic modules that are connected together.

By gathering accurate information and making careful calculations up front the proper sizing of a solar how to power system can easily be assessed. Calculating the required output needed to power various items will help to determine the size of the specific components.

Determining the actual solar south will assist with the appropriate placement of the system. Keeping the panels clean is another consideration as well. If the panels are tilted at 45 degrees or more they are likely to receive an occasional cleaning from rain and wind. But if the panels are flat mounted over time dirt will accumulate.

By learning all the solar power how to tips and strategies homeowners can more easily get the exact result they are seeking. Through careful and precise planning their calculations will result in an efficient system that functions to provide the power needed. ]]></description>
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<title>Solar How To: Prepare Your Wallet for Solar Energy</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-prepare-your-wallet-for-solar-energy.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-prepare-your-wallet-for-solar-energy.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Let's talk solar! How the installation of solar power can improve your chances of selling your home is pretty impressive. "Reliability," "safety," "cost" and "environmentally sound;" are all words and phrases that are becoming mainstream in the real estate market. People are looking for homes and business ventures that are environmentally safe, reliable and cost effective.

Small solar power generators are becoming much more popular among homeowners who wish to simply lower their power bill. A one-time investment can decrease your electric bill by leaps and bounds. Even an extensive solar power system can pay for itself in a matter of five years. Solar water heaters have proven to be more effective and lower the costs of heating water. A small scale solar water heater costs $500 to $1500 on average, depending on size and required power. Some households have implemented solar power generators for specific rooms in their homes.

Some of the most horrendous natural disasters have left entire cities or multiple counties without power. Damages to electrical power plants and equipment often take days or weeks to repair. Power during the reparations is often intermittent or nonexistent. Solar powered generators or even solar powered homes and offices would drastically change the way natural disaster recovery is handled.

Solar power implementation takes on many different forms. Some rely on solar panels with large batteries, while others use solar shingles. Solar shingles have a slightly different appearance than traditional shingles but they are much more functional. They absorb the power of the sunlight and turn it into electricity for your entire home. Solar panels are the most widely used option. Panels may be attached to the home or office or as a detached, mobile unit.

Solar Mobility

Nature lovers and those who prefer remote locations benefit greatly from solar power generators. They have the option to live in or travel to very remote regions of the world but maintain electrical power by use of solar energy. Solar panels are becoming very popular on RVs, cabins, yachts and houseboats. People have more freedom to travel the open seas when they aren't overly worried about depleting their power source. Mobile solar generators are a great idea for hunters and campers who may be out in the wilderness for weeks at a time.

Many people who enjoy camping and the outdoors are implementing small, inexpensive solar power generators into their normal camping gear. A solar power generator will allow campers to cook, listen to the radio, watch television or even play games on their laptops while enjoying nature. A lot of campgrounds are also implementing wireless Internet capability to accommodate those who enjoy being online as much as they enjoy the great outdoors.

The benefits of solar power are nearly endless. Price fluctuations of electricity continue to plague millions of Americans per year. Solar energy is an easily renewable resource that doesn't emit the pollutants of fossil fuels. The price of setting up a full solar energy system in your home depends on several factors. The size and location of the home or office in question is a great place to begin.

Many natural disasters strike world-wide every year. Earthquakes, hurricanes and tornadoes cause more power outages than any other problems. If every home didn't rely on a power plant for all their electrical needs, recovery times after natural disasters could be cut tremendously. People wouldn't have to wait for weeks without power. Small solar power generators aren't so costly that they would over-burden the average homeowner.

Price of Implementing Solar

The cost doesn't have to hinder your decision to go solar. How do we come to that conclusion? Small solar power generators can cost as little as $300 to $400. A small generator could prevent you from losing valuable information on your computer in the case of a brownout or power flicker.

Complete solar implementation for a home could be as much as $40,000 or as inexpensive as $10,000 depending on the size of the home. To understand if this is a viable option for your home, RV or cabin, you could calculate the number of years you expect investment payback to take. Always weigh all options and research thoroughly before you begin the project. As an additional cost benefit, some areas offer solar rebate programs that will help offset the initial costs involved in going solar. ]]></description>
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<title>Solar How To: Inexpensive Solar Power Generators</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-inexpensive-solar-power-generators.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-inexpensive-solar-power-generators.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ When you're in the market for information on solar, how do you choose the best sources for building an inexpensive solar power generator? Information on going solar is available via several different venues. The Internet, books and videos can provide valuable information about going solar. How you choose to use the information is entirely at your discretion. Solar power is becoming more widely used as a home power source each year. With today's economic woes, creating an alternative solar power generator for your home could save a lot of money in the long run.

One of the most important questions people ask about solar: How do you know which information to trust? The answer to that question could be much simpler than you think! The "best" information is the information that best applies to your particular project. Information about how to create a mobile solar power generator wouldn't be helpful to people planning to fully implement solar power with their homes.

A personal solar generator for your home, cabin, apartment or RV could be a very valuable asset for people who often experience blackouts or brownouts. Even small power flickers can cause computer users to lose valuable time and information. People who work from home often use an uninterruptable power system (UPS) to protect their computers from immediately losing power in the event of a power outage. The use of a UPS is very comparable to the use of a solar power backup generator. Freelancers and contractors who travel a lot benefit greatly from small, inexpensive solar power generators.

Solar: How a Small Backup Generator Can Reduce Energy Costs

Small, homemade solar power backup generators can be made for under $400 and reliable for up to five consecutive hours of power. Some avid campers and nature lovers have made it a point to take their laptop and solar power generator on camping or fishing trips. They never have to worry about falling behind on work or the latest news while they're relaxing and enjoying nature.

Installing solar power in your home not only saves a lot of dollars on electricity per year, but your initial investment could also pay for itself within 1-3 years. Solar power also adds to the resale value of your home. Minor improvements to homes often create the biggest buzz and the greatest return on investment when the homeowner considers selling the home. A home that will save the new owner money on the electric bill and help the environment at the same time would be much more attractive to potential home buyers.

Farmers have learned to harness solar power for use on tobacco, wheat, corn and livestock farms. By use of solar powered lighting among other things, farmers have learned to solar power saves time and money. The initial investment is minimal when compared to the costs of setting up a full electrical system for various areas of their farms.

Utilization of solar power for farm use helps the environment just as much as it helps the farmer's bank account. Fossil fuels are used in the process of making solar components, but the products themselves emit no harmful pollutants into the surrounding environment. Informational websites and books can help you determine if solar energy is right for you.

Solar How to Websites and Books

Solar how to websites are very convenient sources of information. Another great resource for solar know-how is books. Several books from the Evil Genius series, McGraw Hill's DeMystified or even the Dummy series can help even the newest solar rookie understand the basics. When shopping for information or products, it's a great idea to take your reading materials with you. When approached by a store representative, ask specific questions regarding solar how to.

When searching the web for information on how to implement solar power, be very specific with your search words and use quotes where appropriate. Simply searching your favorite search engine for solar generator information will bring up a lot of useless information that doesn't apply to your particular project. Try using quotation marks when searching. Instead of just searching for solar power generator try "solar power generator" to target the phrase or any other phrase you're searching for.

Make the Best of Solar How to Information

Website, books and videos are great sources of information. Each resource can provide information on everything solar. How would you find the best prices for solar? How would you build your own solar generator? Knowledge is a great foundation for any project.

Solar power isn't rocket science, but the more you know, the better the end results will be. Before making the decision to fully integrate solar power, do your research. The more you understand, the more smoothly your project and transition will go. The Internet, videos and books are very valuable resources to help answer those questions and many, many more. ]]></description>
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<title>Solar How To: Discover the Benefits of Solar Energy</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-discover-the-benefits-of-solar-energy.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/solar-how-to-discover-the-benefits-of-solar-energy.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 30 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Many solar how to websites and books can be great sources of information on implementing solar power in your home. Search engines often require specific search words or phrases to help you find the particular information you're looking for. Always be specific in online searches. Solar energy is quickly becoming a popular way for people to control their finances and power their homes. One of the most cost effective and reliable sources of alternative power is solar.

How does solar benefit the population? Solar powered homes can actually reduce their utility costs to nearly nothing. Because of technological breakthroughs in solar energy, more companies are creating solar powered household appliances, such as washers and dryers. Solar panels are the most used, but another alternative is solar film for windows. Solar film on RV or yacht windows helps increase the amount of power transferred to the batteries.

Housing Associations

If you belong to a homeowner's association, check with the association before making any major changes to the appearance of your home. Some homeowner's associations have very strict guidelines for the homes in their jurisdiction. Alteration of a home usually has to be approved in advance. The same is true with building outdoor equipment. Housing associations often require explicit permission when building any type of outdoor structures, like a mobile solar panel.

Dependability

The photovoltaic (PV) cells used in creating solar energy were developed for use in space. PV cells power most of the satellites that orbit the earth, primarily because of their reliability. Maintenance is generally not required on the PV cells themselves, making them a very durable, reliable power source for an extended period of time. Most solar panels come with a minimum 25-year warranty.

Mobility

Solar power offers the ability to place appliances anywhere without being hindered by wires. Solar powered lights offer the freedom to place lights anywhere in your yard or on your patio without tripping on wires. Outdoor solar powered lights also usually have light sensors so they come on automatically when the sun goes down. Implementation of solar power on an RV or yacht could mean almost complete freedom from RV parks or marinas.

More Cost Effective

The cost per unit of solar energy is cheaper than the cost per unit from the power plant. The sun produces over 10,000 times more energy than the world uses per year. This free, renewable energy remains virtually untapped while we continue our dependence on fossil fuel. When your solar power source generates more power than your household is currently consuming, it will cause your utility meter to spin in reverse. You actually accrue credit at the same rate the company is charging you for electricity.

In addition to lowering your utility bill, rebates are available to help defer the costs of implementing a solar power system. Some rebates cover as much as 30 percent of the total cost of the system. An investment in a residential solar power system also makes the home owner eligible for a federal tax rebate of $2,000.

Less CO2 Pollution

Large amounts of CO2 are created by fossil fuels. CO2 is often considered the largest cause of global warming. The utilization of solar energy reduces our consumption of fossil fuels. Less dependence on fossil fuels would lead to fewer CO2 emissions and reduce the effect of global warming. A single 2.5 kilowatt solar generator reduces the amount of CO2 emissions by a tremendous amount. The affect is similar to planting an entire acre of trees. The amount of CO2 reduced is the same amount a passenger car driving almost 8,000 miles per year emits.

New Technological Breakthroughs

Every time a new technology is introduced, it is considered impractical or expensive. As that technology is introduced and accepted by the general populace, more people push for it. When more people push to see the technology become more prevalent and affordable, more financiers invest in it. Some of the most recent breakthroughs in solar power are solar powered washers, dryers and kitchen appliances. Solar power has the ability to change the shape of the future of the entire planet. The technological possibilities are nearly endless. ]]></description>
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<title>Solar How To: Build an Inexpensive Solar Power Generator</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/solar-how-to-build-an-inexpensive-solar-power-generator.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/solar-how-to-build-an-inexpensive-solar-power-generator.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 29 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Each year, more people make the transition to solar. How they do it has a lot to do with their initial investment. The higher the initial investment, the more extensive the transition to solar power will be. Many people are learning the art of creating their own solar generator for as little as $300. A very small generator such as this won't power an entire household, but it will power small appliances for approximately five consecutive hours. The small, inexpensive solar power generator outlined in this article is also great for camping, boating or powering electrical devices in your RV.

Obtaining solar power for your home, RV, cabin or apartment isn't as difficult as some may lead you to believe. In fact, a small solar panel can be made with commonly used items for around $200 to $300. This article outlines how to build a small, inexpensive solar generator for your home office, kitchen, cabin or high rise or anywhere else the power may go out.

10 Inexpensive Steps to Solar

1. Buy a small solar panel. This first step to solar freedom is probably one of the most expensive steps. It is also one of the most important. A 12 or 16 volt solar panel may be purchased at almost any RV supply reseller. These panels are usually about 8 inches by 24 inches.

2. Buy an adapter to go from your solar panel to your battery. Your solar panel includes a cable that can connect to a battery but will not likely include the adapter required for this project. This adapter should be an RA-2 female cigarette lighter adapter. The adapter is not included when you purchase the solar panel. The adapter should be under $10.

3. Buy a battery. Deep cycle batteries are best for continuous use. Car batteries are perfect for this. They're relatively inexpensive. Step two should only cost about $40 to $60.

4. Buy or acquire a box to protect fingers from the open terminals on the battery. A box also helps protect the battery from the elements if it is stored outdoors or under a shed. If the battery is going to be well-hidden this step may be skipped.

5. Go to your local auto parts store and buy a DC input and DC meter. To effectively use more than one appliance at a time, opt to spend a little more and buy a DC input with multiple plugs.

6. Buy a DC to AC inverter. This step is optional, but will allow you to run your normal AC powered appliances using your DC battery and solar generator. Purchasing an inverter will increase the overall cost of your solar generator by around $50 to $60.

7. Securely attach the DC input and DC meter to the top of the box. If you chose not to use a box, attach the input and meter securely to a nearby wall for stability.

8. Attach the meter to the battery terminals by using protective, insulated wire. Use all safety precautions and attach the negative terminal first. After releasing the negative wire, connect the positive in the same manner.

9. Using the same instructions, attach the DC inlet and the solar panel to the battery. Remember; always attach the negative, or black, wire first to reduce the risk of electric shock.

10. Close and secure the lid. Ensure the lid is securely closed to prevent the risk of electric shock. Small children are often curious about new things, and an open battery terminal is a very risky experiment for a child.

Optional Additions

An amp meter and pop-up circuit breaker may be used for extra protection. Panels without diodes should be used with charge controllers. Charge controllers, or charge regulators, regulate the voltage and current coming from solar panels to the battery. Solar panels used without charge controllers could damage the battery.

Congratulations! You've built your first solar generator. Your generator will run small appliances such as a radio or fan for about five continuous hours. To effectively run more appliances, simply add larger solar panels, batteries and inverters. Place the solar panel on an outside wall or roof in a place that receives five to eight hours of sunlight a day for optimum charge. Topping off a weak battery only takes one to three hours of sunlight. ]]></description>
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<title>Factors Affecting Your Solar Energy Output</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/factors-affecting-your-solar-energy-output.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/Home_Improvement/factors-affecting-your-solar-energy-output.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 25 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Many factors affect the energy output by your solar energy system. Some vary and some are fixed, but knowing what these factors are can help you combat them. There are also things you can do both before and after your system is installed to increase the efficiency of your solar energy system.

Maximal Output

The electrical output of solar panels is measured in watts. The amount of wattage produced by solar panels is what differentiates them from each other. There are several scenarios during which solar panels reach their maximum output. High noon is one of the main ones since it is during the hottest part of the day. When it is not raining or snowing and the skies are clear, solar panels are able to produce at maximum efficiency. Other conditions include the sun being perpendicular to Earth, solar panels being optimally tilted and the panels facing southward.

Weather Conditions

Weather conditions can majorly impact the energy output by your solar energy system. Clouds, rain, snow, fog, haze and smog can all reduce the amount of sunlight that reaches your solar panels. As a result, the power your solar energy system generates is greatly reduced. To combat this, make sure that your system includes a battery bank.

A battery bank can save excess energy produced on clear and sunny days. You will be thankful for this on days when your system is not producing much.

Time of Day

Solar energy is at its peak at high noon. Although your solar energy system will produce power in the morning and late afternoon, the majority of your system's output will be produced around noontime. Your system will be more efficient during the summer than it will be during the winter when the days are shorter. Once again, however, having a battery bank included in your solar energy system can help to combat this problem.

Proximity to the Equator

Your proximity to the equator affects the power generated by your system. Your solar panels will generate more electricity the closer you are to the equator.

Tilt Angle

The angle at which your solar panels are tilted has an impact on the amount of electricity generated by your solar energy system. The optimal tilt angle for your system is affected by several factors. Both your latitude and your personal power requirements determine at what angle your system needs to be tilted. Your solar energy system needs to include solar trackers to combat tilt angle problems. Solar trackers are controlled by a computer and let the solar panels follow the sun.

Shading

Your solar energy system needs to be installed in an open area unaffected by shade. If even a small section of the solar panels are shaded, the energy output will be reduced. This issue is why it is so popular to place solar panels on roofs. This method works only if you do not have any large trees or other structures that shade your roof.

Dirty Panels

Even when installed on your roof, solar panels can become dirty. Pollution, traffic dust and even bird droppings contribute to soiling the solar panels. When the panels are dirty, their efficiency is reduced. To combat this, be sure to have the panels cleaned regularly, whether you do it yourself or pay somebody else to do it.

You can help your solar energy system be more efficient by making sure it includes a control flow system. The control flow system reduces the volume of water that needs to be heated, thereby increasing the solar energy system efficiency.

Another way to increase the efficiency of your solar energy system is to install solar roof shingles instead of traditional solar panels. Since solar shingles cover the entire surface of your roof, problems such as the tilt angle can be done away with. You can also save money, as you will not need to install additional components like control flow systems to combat efficiency problems. ]]></description>
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<title>Solar How To: Converting an RV to Solar Power</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/RVs/solar-how-to-converting-an-rv-to-solar-power.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Automotive/RVs/solar-how-to-converting-an-rv-to-solar-power.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 25 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ There's never been a better time to convert to solar power. North Americans are only too aware of the ramifications of the continued use of non-renewable energy sources. Global warming and greenhouse gases are terms understood by even the youngest of citizens. The possible impact of ignoring the warnings could have devastating consequences for future generations. "Solar how to" is on the minds of many social and environmentally-conscious individuals.

Environmental concerns extend beyond the front door. RV travelers have become increasingly aware of the benefits of converting to solar power. Many have become traveling ambassadors for the cause. They stand to set a new trend when it comes to relying less on hydro-electric energy and more upon natural sunlight when traveling.

* The number one reason that RV vacationers are reluctant to go solar is the notion of cost.

* The second is the perceived hassle involved. Both of these may be misconceptions. RV owners may find on closer review that the cost is not as great as believed. The long term savings will likely far outweigh the initial cost of conversion. Plus, the greater travel options may decrease the hassle involved in RV traveling.

Solar power is energy generated from the sun. Solar how-to for RV's involves the placement of solar panels atop the roof of the vehicle. The panels reflect the sun's rays and help convert it into energy. This energy can produce heat, electricity and even cooling.

The benefits of converting an RV to solar power are tremendous. Just a few of them include:

* Less reliance upon access to an electrical outlet. One of the first things RV travelers look at when planning a trip itinerary is electrical accessibility. Many campgrounds have limited numbers of sites with electricity. This can sometimes make it challenging to find a convenient travel route. Conversion to solar power eliminates the need to plan travel around electrical access. Solar power opens up more campground options. It also makes outback RV travel a possibility.

* RV solar systems can be tailored to fit needs. Power needs differ according to RV size, number of appliances, etc. Some travelers may wish to simply run an engine battery on solar power. Others may decide to convert all parts of the vehicle, including hot water heaters and kitchen appliances to solar energy. All of these needs can be accommodated by installing the right kinds and number of solar panels.

* Solar systems can be expanded as needs change. RV owners may want to start by converting batter power to solar energy. As other appliances are added or switched over, more or larger solar panels can be added to accommodate the expansion.

* Cost savings. Total savings will depend upon the extent to which an RV is used. Frequent travelers stand to save the most money in the long run. Travelers who spend weeks or months traveling each year stand to save thousands of dollars. The savings realized are twofold. First, reliance upon outside energy sources is reduced. Plus, the need to pay extra for campsites with electrical outlets is eliminated.

Almost any and every make and model of RV can be converted to solar energy. The age of the RV doesn't matter. However, newer vehicles may be more easily converted than older models. The type of conversion kit needed will depend upon the size of the RV. The number of appliances and the size of the battery will also play a critical role.

Solar how to kits for RV's are available where RV's are sold. Kits are also available online. It's important to determine exactly what your particular needs are before you purchase a solar power kit. It's important to have your solar kit installed by a professional unless you have experience in this area. Incorrect installation may reduce performance level or cause malfunction within your RV. ]]></description>
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<item>
<title>Make The Right Choice With Solar Energy Technologies</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Home/make-the-right-choice-with-solar-energy-technologies.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Home/make-the-right-choice-with-solar-energy-technologies.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sat, 25 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ There are many different solar energy technologies available on the market today. It is a good idea to learn about what is out there, whether you choose to use a contractor for installation or not. In addition, you can save some money if you already have an idea of what you want. Contractors can concentrate on installation and you will not have to pay them to spend time determining what to install.

The first thing you will need to do is decide if you want to go all the way solar or not. There are systems available to convert your entire house to solar energy. There are also different technologies that you can use to convert only certain things. Either way you choose, you will still be able to save money and the environment at the same time.

Solar Panels

Traditional solar panels are mounted on small stands and then placed either on your roof or in your yard. There are other necessary components that depend on what type of system you choose.

Solar Powered Shingles and Tiles

Solar powered shingles and tiles are an aesthetically pleasing alternative to regular, bulky solar panels. Instead of having multiple solar panels attached to your roof, you just re-roof your house. These shingles have a photovoltaic substance spread on top of them that allows for the collection of solar energy. Added benefits of using solar shingles are that they blend in very well and will not reduce the value of your house.

Solar Powered Batteries

Solar powered batteries are a wonderful invention. It is inevitable that your solar electric system will generate more power than you need. When solar powered batteries are included in your setup, you can store the excess power to be used later. You will be thankful for that on rainy days when your system is not generating power.

Solar Heater

You can use a solar space heating system to heat the air in your home. It can be implemented in one of two ways. A passive heating system uses features such as south-facing windows and heat-absorbing floor and wall material to collect heat during the day and release it at night. An active heating system uses solar collectors, fans or pumps to distribute the heat. In addition, a storage system is needed to hold heat for cloudy or rainy days.

Solar Water Heater

Installing a solar water heater is a good option for those who don't want to go completely solar, or who just can't afford to do so. There are only two parts to this: a solar collector and a storage tank. The solar collector uses sunlight to heat the water, which is then held in a storage tank.

Solar Pool Heating

You can also use the power of solar energy to heat your swimming pool or hot tub. The basic principle is similar to that of the solar water heater. Your pool filtration system will pump the pool water through a solar collector. The heated water is then pumped right back into the pool. The one drawback to this type of heating system is that the solar collector is usually quite large. It needs to be 50 to 100% of the pool surface area.

Solar Lighting

Depending upon where you live, you have probably seen stores such as Wal-Mart using solar lighting systems. The system used for a single home is not as large, although the basic principle is the same. Most solar lighting systems are actually hybrids. Hybrid solar lighting systems combine solar energy with regular electricity, all funneled into hybrid light fixtures. The amount of regular electricity used is dependent upon available sunlight.

Trombe Wall

A trombe wall is glazed on the outside with a heat conducting substance. These walls transfer heat into your house to warm it up and out of your house to cool it down.

Solar Sunroom

The solar sunroom will always be positioned on the south-facing side of your home. The walls are made of extremely large glass panes that collect solar energy. The energy collected can either be funneled into the house or stored for later use. ]]></description>
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