Home Solar Power Systems

How Home Solar Power Systems Work

Home solar power systems work by converting sunlight into electricity through the use of solar panels. On days with a more intense sun, more electricity is produced through home solar power systems. For an average home about ten watts per square foot will be gathered per day, but this can also vary depending on the size of the solar panels that are being used. At first home solar power systems are more expensive than utilities since you will have to pay off the cost of the equipment and installation. But in the long run home solar power systems are quite cost effective. Some choose to install home solar power systems because they are environmentally friendly while others choose them because of the lower monthly utility bills.

How It Works

Home solar power systems consist of five main segments. The first of these is solar panels which are normally placed on the roof of your property, but they can also be placed in other areas that receive direct sunlight. The solar panels are the segment of the home solar power systems that convert sunlight into DC power. Next is the power converter which converts the DC power into AC power, this is the same power that you get from the national grid and what most household electronics run on.

The third element is the electric panel which brings the power from the inverter to the electrical service panel or breaker box. From here the power will be distributed to various electrical points in the house. Fourth is the electric utility meter which handles the excess power and causes your electric meter to run backwards to give you additional credit with the utility company. Finally there is the utility grid which will supply you with central electricity during the night when your energy needs exceed your solar energy system.

When it comes to the utility grid there are two types of systems, the off grid system and the grid tied or net metering system. The first is the off grid system which is not hooked up to an electric utility system, meaning there is no power lines running to the house. These systems require a battery system for back up power during the night. During the day excess electricity is stored in the battery to give you the energy you need during the night. Another component of the off grid system is the generator which can be used when the battery power drains down during the times when there is no sun for days.

With the grid tied or net metering system there are power lines connected to the electric utility system and it acts as a large battery array. The electric meter will spin backwards during the day when the sun is out, then at night or during periods of energy need the meter will spin forwards. You will need to talk with a utility company about these systems since the rules and regulations will vary depending on the company.

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