How Does The Different Components Of A DIY Photovoltaic Solar Powered System Perform Togther?
Did you know that there are 10 various parts that are required to make a complete solar powered system for your home? Of course you don’t have to use all them. You can pick and choose depending on what type of system you want to end up with.
Don’t feel to intimidate by the options or complexity of the different systems it is really very simple. For example, we talk about having a diesel generator as a back-up system, but you don’t to have to start off with one, and you can add it at a later date if you think it is necessary.
Solar Cells
These solar panels face the sun and convert the suns energy into power. Unfortunately, they produce DC power, so we have to change this to AC power. It doesn’t matter how many solar cells or solar panels you connect together. Really, you want to connect as many as possible. Follow this link find out more about how to build a solar panel.
You connect all the panels together so they are inline. A bit like having a string of fairy lights, and the light bulbs are the solar panels. That is why you can have as many panels as you like and the more you have the electricity you generate.
DC Disconnect
As the electricity flows from your panels, the first component it hits is the DC disconnect. This is a vital piece of kit as it switches off the electricity generated by your solar panels. This now allows to carryout maintenance on any other part of your system.
Battery Charge Controller
If you have a battery backup or a battery bank then a charge controller is a must have piece of equipment. This prevents your batteries from becoming over charged, which can damage them.
Battery
Learn about the various types of batteries that are available. You want to use deep cycle batteries like the ones they use in forklift trucks. Do not use car batteries.
Keep the batteries warm, that way they work better. If you don’t have room in the house for them, make them a shelter outside, never leave them exposed. A battery box is also a good investment, they keep your batteries at a good temperature and also protect them from accidental damage.
System Metering
A system meter is very useful for telling you how much electricity you are using and how much power is left in your batteries. You don’t want to work blind, they don’t cost very much are really worth their weight in gold.
Main Supply DC Disconnect
The main DC disconnect is used to turn off the power from your battery. It is placed in-between your battery bank and your inverter. This turns off the power from your batteries, which then allows you to undertake any preventative maintenance.
Alternating Current (AC) Direct Current (DC) Inverter
Batteries and solar panels output a direct current. The problem is, many if not all your electrical gadgets in the home use an alternating current. So the inverter converts the DC into an AC current so everything works as it should.
Petrol Generator
There are various types of electric generators to choose from. You will want one of these if you are not connected to the national grid. A backup generator does not only secure your energy supply should something go wrong, it can also recharge your batteries during cloudy days or at night.
AC (Alternating Current) Breaker Panel
If you have a utility supplier, you will have a AC breaker panel. This is where the electricity from the national grid enters your home. Every house has one of these; however, you are not allowed to touch it. Which means, when you are ready, arrange for them to connect your solar energy system to the grid.
Whatever you do, do not wire it up yourself. You can get into a lot of trouble, and it isn’t worth the hassle. The utility company will find out in the end..
KW per Hour Meter
All homes which are on-grid are fitted with a kilo watt hour meter. This what the electricity company uses to record how much electricity you have used.
Video on Different Aspects Of Building Your Own Solar Panel
Learning to build a solar panel is the first step. The second step is to design a system that will work in your home. Check out build a solar panel and get full instructions on how to put it all together.
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