Alternative Energy

Do not think that you have to install an entire home solar power system to enjoy the benefits of solar power. In truth, one of the most cost-effective uses of solar power is a solar heater, and one of the most useful applications of solar energy is for RVs. And, perhaps, one of the most common and easiest applications of the sun for power is a battery charger. So, how do these different applications of solar energy work? It’s likely not as technical as you think!

Solar Pool Heaters

The majority of solar pool heaters work in this way: a pump pumps water from the pool, through a filter to remove any debris, and then up through solar collectors. The solar collectors are the heart of the system; they are what heat the water. They can be placed up on the roof or elsewhere where they will receive the most sunlight.

When the sun is not out — or, rather, when the water in the solar collectors is cooler or about the same temperature as the pool water — a control valve directs the water directly back into the pool instead of up through the collector. And, in fact, during the hottest months of the summer, the solar heater can actually be used to cool the pool. It does so by running the water through the collector at night, and then returning the cooled water to the pool.

Many people choose solar pool heaters to extend their swimming season by weeks or even months. Also, they are oft preferred over regular pool heaters which can really use a ton of energy and run up the utility bills — of course, you can use a solar heater in conjunction with a conventional pool heater for the most heating options.

They are one of the simplest yet most cost-effective forms of solar power usage.

RV Solar Power System

With an RV solar power system, RV owners can truly feel the freedom of the road. They can park their vehicle/home just about any where they choose and have all of their comforts without having to worry about plugging in. They can truly live off the grid.

Solar power on RVs is used to charge 12 volt batteries which can be used to power 12 volt appliances like lighting, TVs, water pumps, stereos, etc. With the addition of an optional inverter, 120 volt appliances (vacuum cleaners, blenders, microwaves, satellites, etc.) can be run, as well. Of course, to power electric refrigerators or roof air conditioners (which both run for long periods of time), it is still best to use utility hook-ups, propane, or a generator.

If you plan to use solar energy in your RV, it is best to get a how-to guide and also to talk to other RVers to ensure that you get the best system for your needs. Here are the basics, though: solar panels are generally placed on top of the RV where they will receive the most sunlight (they are secured with brackets and should be able to be tilted for the best positioning in the winter, they must be tilted up and face south to capture low winter sunlight. While traveling, though, they should always be flat). They convert sunlight into electricity and store it in batteries.

The solar cells that make up the panels are made from ultra-pure silicon. When sunlight hits them, electrons are activated and flow from one side of the cell to the other. As the electrons do this, fine grid wires collect the electrical flow. It can take around 34 connected cells to generate the voltage needed to charge 12 volt batteries.

Submitted by: Home Solar Panels, LLC.

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