How to install Marine Solar Panels
How to install Marine Solar Panels
Solar panels can be a great help to sailors, keeping vital lights and appliances functioning, even when batteries run low or a generator malfunctions. They are also a much quieter way of recharging batteries!
Learning how to install marine solar panels will be vital for the sailor who wants their advantages, but first he or she must learn which solar panels are best. Three types of solar cells are commonly used in solar panels, each with its own advantages. The sailor needs to learn these advantages and select the solar panels that are best for the need.
Types of Solar Panels
Solar panels must be kept from shading, as shaded cells draw energy for themselves from other cells.
1. Solar panels using mono crystalline cells have high conversion efficiency, and take up less space, but lack shade protection. They loose 50 percent of their efficiency in high temperature areas. The crack very easily, therefore, must be thrown away. A real environmental negative to use these type panels in the marine area.
2. Solar panels using polycrystalline cells have even higher conversion efficiency, take up even less space, but still lack shade protection. They loose 50 percent of their efficiency in high temperature areas. The crack very easily, therefore, must be thrown away. A real environmental negative to use these type panels in the marine area.
3. Solar panels using amorphous silicon cells weree first believed to have lower conversion efficiency. Now scientific studies have proven this theory wrong. This type solar cells produce amps from day light til dark, therefore, produce more amps per day. Isn’t this the result you are looking for? They do take up more space, but do have shade protection. This can be especially important on a sailboat. These panels work no matter which direction they are facing. They do not loose efficiency in high heat areas. They work even better in cold temperatures down to minus 40 degrees. If you encounter snow even better efficiency because the snow directs more light to the cells.
Marine solar panels are available in both hard and flexible types. Hard solar panels can be attached to the deck, while flexible solar panels might be attached to deck or canvas.
Size and Number of Solar Panels
Learning how to install marine solar panels will include calculations to determine what size and how many solar panels you will need. This information is readily available on the Internet by searching the question: “What size solar panel do I need” on your favorite search engine. The rule of thumb is to allow for 20% more solar panel power than you estimate you will need.Size does not necessarily mean watts, size means a panel that will produce the amount of amps per day needed.
Placement of Solar Panels
Once you have determined the size and number of solar panels needed, you will be better able to determine where they will be placed. The best places depend on the boat’s configuration and size of the panels. Take your time and think it through. Read the instructions that came with your solar panels. You will want to avoid all violations of warranty terms.
The simple answer to how to install marine solar panels is: in the sun. Select locations that will get maximum sunlight without shaded spots.
In placing marine solar panels, consider the use of extra bars/braces to secure the panels. You obviously want them to remain stable. However this will not be a factor with Peel N Stick Panels.
How to Install Marine Solar Panels
Your marine solar panels should have clear instructions for installation. In addition to those, consider the following.
Most marine solar panel systems have three main components:
1. Solar panels to collect sunlight and produce a charge for you.
2. Charge controller to regulate the charge entering your battery and avoid overcharging it.
3. Batteries to store the energy your solar panels created.
Once marine solar panels have charged your batteries, you can use that energy to run most 12 volt DC appliances. These might include your safety lights, regular lighting, pumps, and fans, as well as small appliances. If you add an inverter, you can also run 120 volt AC appliances such as a microwave, radio, satellite dish, or radio. An inverter is a separate unit, not mentioned above, that transforms the current coming out of the battery into that required by most appliances.
First off, check to see that the system has a voltmeter. If it does not, purchase and install one. This will allow you to check the charge you are getting.
Affix your solar panels securely in place, and connect them per the instructions included in your kit. Use only tinned marine grade wire running from the panels to the batteries. If you are unsure of the wire you are considering, ask questions. Regular automotive wire may look similar, but in marine conditions, it will lose its ability to conduct electrical power. Lastly, ask the folks at Earth Care Solar about the Lithium survival solar charging systems. They come with an extra inverter, the whole system fits in your brief case. Could you use 60 to 90 hours of power to operate your computers, radios, and more? You never know when a complete system on a boat could go down. A great back portable back up system to have aboard.
Helpful Tip
Pre-packaged marine solar panel kits take the guesswork out of installation.
Inexpensive Solar Power Generators
Earth Care Products endorses the writers statements below. In fact, we encourage each of the following quotes. Earth Care’s Peel and Stick Solar Charging Panels are becoming very popular because of their size, weight, and durability?
Inexpensive Solar Power Generators
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 crystalline 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. Earth Care Products have lightweight, portable power systems utalizing our rollable and foldable solar panels available for those who are limited on the amount of space they have for storage and weight they can carry.
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.
Earth Care Products, Inc.
www.peelandsticksolarenergy.com
www.resourceteamusa.com/grants
Solar Garden Lights Ease Energy Costs
Earth Care Products endorses the writers statements below. In fact, we encourage each of the following quotes. Earth Care’s Peel and Stick Solar Charging Panels are becoming very popular because of their ease of installation and durability?
Solar Garden Lights Ease Energy Costs
The current trends of today’s economy and rising fuel costs make it difficult to have money to spend on the little pleasures in life. Gardening is a popular hobby for many people. Many homeowners take pride in their landscaping abilities and wish to show off their hard work and effort. This can be a difficult task with the current rise in electricity bills and energy costs. Alternative energy sources are a viable way to cut those costs. Using solar power may seem like a daunting task, but there are simple ways to use solar energy.
Homeowners and renters alike can benefit from do-it-yourself projects that harness solar energy and reduce electricity bills. One simple and inexpensive project is the installation of solar garden or yard lights. These types of lights can allow a garden to be stylishly illuminated while still saving on energy costs. They are a convenient and aesthetically pleasing addition to any garden or landscape.
Solar garden lights store and generate their own power during daylight hours and release that energy at night. A typical landscape light uses 12 volts of electricity and requires bulbs. Solar garden lights contain solar panels that harness the sunlight. This is especially convenient for homeowners and renters who do not have outdoor electrical outlets. These solar panels charge the interior LED (light-emitting diode) battery. A photoresistor activates the battery when it detects little or no light, causing the lamp to illuminate. LED batteries are inexpensive and have an average lifespan of two years. One LED solar light emits the same brightness as a 2 watt bulb. LED battery powered lights run for about 100,000 hours, while an incandescent bulb runs for only 3,000 hours on non-renewable energy. Solar garden lights on average remain lit for 10 hours per night.
Solar garden lights require the simplest installation of any solar lighting. They can be placed in any area of the yard that receives direct sunlight. Most solar garden lights are mounted on stakes that can easily be driven into the ground. These types of solar lights require no wires or underground digging. Some also have the option of being strung together so they can hang along eaves or awnings.
Solar garden lights are available in various styles, colors and shapes. They can be stylish additions to any garden. Solar garden lights can be used to illuminate a path or walkway. There are also floating solar lights that can be displayed in a pool or pond. Another convenient type of solar light is a solar deck light. These lights are small and can be placed along stairs, making decks safer for nighttime use. They are made from plastic and are weighted down to avoid being blown around by wind.
A growing trend among solar powered landscape lighting is rope lighting. This type of lighting involves a string of LED bulbs that are encased in clear plastic tubing. The tubing protects against weather and allows for flexibility. Solar rope lighting works much the same as solar garden lighting and does not require electricity. These lights also come in a variety of colors, and some models have twinkle or blink settings. Rope lighting can be used to trace a path or walkway or be mounted along a house or deck. It could also be used as outdoor decoration for holiday seasons.
Solar garden lights are sold at most major retailers and home improvement stores. They are the most energy efficient choice for outdoor lighting. Solar garden lights are affordable; pricing increases are usually due to style and color choice.
Renewable energy is both environmentally friendly and economically vital. Solar power is an important resource in the effort of homeowners and renters to lower electricity costs and use renewable energy sources. Solar energy allows people the luxury of small pleasures, like garden lighting, while being affordable and eco-friendly.
Earth Care Products, Inc.
www.peelandsticksolarenergy.com
www.resourceteamusa.com/grants
Converting an RV to Solar Power
Earth Care Products endorses the writers statements below. In fact, we encourage each of the following quotes. Earth Care’s Peel and Stick Solar Charging Panels are becoming an RV Owners delight Who wants to drill holes in the roof of an expensive RV?
Converting an RV to Solar Power
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.
Earth Care Products, Inc.
www.peelandsticksolarenergy.com
www.resourceteamusa.com/grants
Using Solar Energy on the Road: A Guide for RV Owners and Campers
Earth Care Products endorses the writers statements below. In fact, we encourage each of the following quotes. Earth Care’s Peel and Stick Solar Charging Panels are becoming an RV Owners delight Who wants to drill holes in the roof of an expensive RV?
“Recreational Vehicle and Camping”
“Powering a home, office, or urban project with solar power has become a popular way to save on energy costs and do one’s part to help save the planet over the past few years. Many private homes, apartment complexes, and company headquarters have found that designing and installing a solar energy system is a great way to save both budget funds and the Earth’s precious natural resources.
But while the solar power market may be mostly geared towards these applications, there is one use for solar power that takes advantage of these great benefits while also being a convenient solution to common powering problems: the RV, or recreational vehicle and camping.
Many RV owners and campers are already keen consumers when it comes to cutting costs and finding creative ways to live, work, and play efficiently. When traveling, having an adequate and affordable source of power is paramount to a comfortable and convenient experience.
The use of a solar energy system can take advantage of an RV’s exposure to sunlight and translate that exposure into significant savings and convenience.
Just as in any modern application, the first step toward setting up solar panels and required accessories for an RV is to take an inventory of the specific items you’d like to power with the solar array. Most appliances found in an RV can be easily powered via a solar energy system. Find the daily watts usage for your RV’s fridge and freezer, water heater, interior lights and accessories, and any other items usually dependent on electric power. Combining the daily watts usage for all items, you can arrive at your required solar energy load, which will serve as a basic blueprint for designing your system and selecting appropriate component parts.
Many manufacturers sell special “RV solar kits,” which include solar panels and basic accessories such as a battery bank, specifically geared towards use in recreational vehicles. These kits may help take the guesswork out of designing and configuring your own system, but can sometimes charge a pretty penny for the convenience. If you’re concerned about cutting costs wherever possible, or you enjoy the fun of hands-on projects, you may wish to create your own set of solar panels and accessories. Choose quality components adequate for your specific application, be mindful of corresponding voltages, and you’re sure to have a blast while you prepare to reap the benefits of free, clean energy that both you and nature can enjoy.
When thinking about solar power to equip your RV or camper, think outside the box. In addition to the traditional solar systems for RVs, you might also consider buying gadgets that would supplement your solar energy system. Here’s a list of some readily available solar powered items:
Water Bottle & Night Light: Take this ingenious solar water bottle on your next camping trip. While it absorbs solar energy during the day with it’s built-in solar panel, you can use it as a water bottle. After dark, it comes in handy as a spare LED lantern. There is a white light mode as well as a blinking red light for distress signal mode.
Light String: Want to make your RV more festive and welcoming? Hang a string of solar powered LED lights on your awning to welcome friends and neighbors. These lights can be used indoors or out.
2-in-1 Hybrid Solar Power Flashlight & Radio: The best of both worlds! Can be run on solar power or hand crank. These combo flashlight and radios come in a variety of sizes and with a range of options. Some even have cell phone charger connectors.
LED Flashlight: Solar charged LED flashlights come in a variety of sizes and brightness levels. The smaller ones are often found with keychain attachments and the larger ones have handles to hang up at night.
Mosquito & Bug Zapper: The solar powered bug zapper often doubles as a lantern. They can be mounted on the side of the RV or in the ground with a stand. Some automatically turn on at night. Models most recently on the market include blue LEDS that attract pests to the zapper.
Cell phone and MP3 Player Chargers: Readily available in most camping stores, these chargers often do double duty, charging both cell phones and ipods or other MP3 players. These are very handy for RV users because you always like to have your cell phone fully charged and using a solar powered charger keeps your energy usage down.
Solar powered gadgets and traditional solar panel systems are readily available, reasonably priced and are a convenient source of power for those in the RV community. Consider supplementing your RV and camping power sources with some solar power.”
Adding to the words of the author above, Earth Care Products offers the Peel and Stick Flexible Solar Charging Panels which remove themselves from the traditional solar panels made of crystalline and other similar features. The main difference is all traditional panels must face the south and tilt 45 degrees in other to capture the peak sun each day. Peel and Stick Panels, by Earth Care, do not have to face the south, in fact utilize light to produce amps. Although capturing the peek sun enhances the peel and stick product, facing the south does not effect the minimum efficiency of the Earth Care Peel and Stick Solar Products.
Earth Care Products, Inc.
www.peelandsticksolarenergy.com
www.resourceteamusa.com/grants
Solar Panels – Pvs At Work
What is PV solar power? You have heard the term, but you are unsure as to its meaning. You are vaguely aware that solar power has something to do with making energy from sunlight. But what is PV solar power? Is it different from other kinds of solar power?
PV solar power is different from other types. Of the two main categories of solar power, active and passive, PV solar power is active. Let’s look at it.
Solar Panel
Active solar power relies on solar panels. You may picture them as flat, rectangular boxes on rooftops.
There are two main types of solar panel. From a distance, both look like rectangular boxes. Both convert sunlight into energy, but in two different ways. The terms for the two solar panel types are solar thermal collector and photovoltaic module.
1. Solar thermal collector: This solar panel takes in solar energy from the sun and uses it to heat air or water.
2. Photovoltaic module: This second type of solar panel collects solar energy and converts it to usable electricity.
Meet the PV
To answer the question, what is PV solar power, we must know what the PV is. The short answer is that PV refers to a photovoltaic module. “P” is for photo and “V” for voltaic.
The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary defines “photovoltaic” this way.
“of, relating to, or utilizing the generation of a voltage when radiant energy falls on the boundary between dissimilar substances.”
In simpler terms, “photo” refers to sunlight and “voltaic” refers to electrical energy. PV panels convert sunlight into electrical energy. Sunlight flows into the solar panel. Electrical energy flows out of the solar panel.
A PV solar panel is made up of many photovoltaic (light to volts) cells. These cells are electrically connected, and then covered with glass. The glass provides electrical insulation. It is also good protection from weather and other damaging forces.
When minimal energy is needed, such as that necessary to power a small appliance, a single PV solar panel is sufficient. When more power is needed, an “array” of solar panels is created by connecting panels to one another. If the power will not be supplied to the power grid, the solar panel(s) is connected to a charge controller, and battery. If it is intended for on-grid use, the solar panel array will be connected to an electrical inverter.
What Is PV Solar Power?
PV solar power is solar energy in the form of sunlight, which has been collected by a photovoltaic module, and converted into usable electricity.
Conventional silicon solar panels convert about 14 to 17 percent of sunlight into usable electricity. That isn’t much. Late in 2006, however, a new solar cell
was introduced. Solar panels that utilize the new cell can convert into electricity 22 percent of the sunlight they collect. Theoretically, the maximum that the cells of a solar panel can convert is said to be around 26 to 27 percent of incoming sunlight.
How does it work? Let’s look at a very simple explanation.
Each photovoltaic cell in a PV solar panel is a semiconductor. When sunlight hits those cells, a certain part of the sunlight is absorbed by those silicon cells. The cells take in that part of the sunlight’s energy. The cells then transfer the absorbed sunlight’s energy to the electrons in the silicon. The electrons begin to flow, and this creates an electrical current. Metal contacts built into the top and bottom of the PV cells draw off that current and it is sent to the grid or battery. It is now usable electricity. The power grid sends it on its way, if you have used an on-grid connection. If you are using a battery, it is stored in the battery awaiting your need.
PV solar power is being used increasingly with great success, and while it is true that cloud cover can affect it, the cloudy country of Germany leads the world in successful use of solar panels.
How To Choose The Best RV Solar Panels
Earth Care Products endorses the writers statements below. In fact, we encourage each of the following quotes. Earth Care’s Peel and Stick Solar Charging Panels are becoming very popular with RV Owners.
“How To Choose The Best RV Solar Panels”
No matter what you are planning on doing, there is probably a solar system available to help you generate power. On increasingly popular choice is RV solar panels, which can help you run these large vehicles off the power of the sun. If you are interested in helping to save money as well as help the environment, you should research your options for what kind of RV solar panels are available.
RV solar panels are a component of an electrical system which converts light from the sun to electricity. This electricity is used to charge the RV batteries and are capable of running all the basics in your RV, including the lighting and appliances. On great advantage of using RV solar panels is that you can travel to a wider variety of locations. No longer will you have to worry about finding a source of power for your vehicles when you travel. As long as the sun is shining, you will be taking your power with you.
Thousands of companies in countries around the world now offer different RV solar panels for your convenience. When you decide to make the purchase, spend time researching which options are available to you so you can buy the best system and the lowest possible price. At Eart Care Products Inc. we try to educate our custumers as much as possible to insure them that they are making the best purchase. We have Technical Engineers working on testing each and every solar product we sell and giving the specs of each product to inform you to the best of our ability.
Earth Care Products, Inc.
www.peelandsticksolarenergy.com
www.resourceteamusa.com/grants
Ideas For Outdoor Solar Lights
Solar Lights will give you What You Want
If you have a patio or deck then you need outdoor lighting to illuminate it and the area around it at night.
Even if you do not use your patio or deck at night you should have sensor lights close by for security and safety reasons. And now you can do all this cheaply with solar powered lights.
Firstly lights that come on when someone approaches are great for deterring the casual thief and secondly if you need to go on to your deck or patio at night a lamp will come on automatically to light your way and ensure you do not slip or bump into anything.
There are lots of different clever and innovative ways to illuminate different aspects of your patio or deck. Lights can be installed in almost any location on, in and around your patio or deck to give you the desired lighting effect.
When you install patio solar lights you are able to create just the right atmosphere to get the sort of style and ambience that you prefer. And of course by mixing different lighting effects you can use different combinations for different occasions making the use of solar patio lights and solar deck lights extremely versatile.
The main thing that helps you with obtaining this versatility is the fact that there are just so many types of solar lighting for patios and decks all with a different and unique applications. And best of all they are all really easy to install so that you can do it yourself cheaply and in your own time.
Lanterns
The tradition lantern is a standard for most patio deck areas and now you can get all the same traditional and more recent designs powered by solar energy. If the location for the lantern is not in sunlight all day then don’t worry but just get a solar outdoor light which has a separate mini solar panel for charging the battery and locate the panel in a sun lit area.
Motion Sensor Lights
These are essential for home safety and security and once again these are all available in the traditional and modern designs you would associate with sensor lights. Only now you can get them as a solar powered option and of course these require no outlet or other electric wiring and so are easy to install and can be located wherever you like. Also Solar lights will still funtion if connected to a battery when there is a power outage.
Step Lights
These are extremely useful for lighting your way in tricky areas to or from your patio. They actually illuminate the steps so you see exactly where you are going. This makes it easier for you and your family to get around at night and lessens the chance of that occasional slip which can sometimes be so painful.
Post Lights and Lamps
The traditional post lamp which sits on top of a post on your patio or deck is now available as a solar light and there are new close fitting solar powered post lights which also fit on top of the post which create an upward light without you even knowing that they are there. These are very effective in giving a special and unusual lighting effect.
Torches
Specially shaped solar powered lights that look like the normal flame torches (without the flame of course) are also now available in almost any style you can think of and these are great for producing a striking ambient lighting effect.
Use Your Imagination
There are still more solar lights which have been designed specifically for use on decks and patios. Just about any type of outdoor solar lighting can be use to give a different effect. Try using rope lights along or under railings or around pickets or posts.
You can also get solar lights for hanging under large sun umbrellas or for centre of table lighting. And do not forget Christmas and other festive occasions or parties when you can use special solar lights designed just for those occasions.
Only your imagination will limit what you can do for your deck or patio with outdoor solar lights. The good news is that whatever you do with solar lights it is going to be cheap and you will have lots of fun
Factors Affecting Your Solar Energy Output
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.
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.
10 Uses for Outdoor Solar Lights
Here are just a few examples of practical applications for outdoor solar lighting:
Solar Accent Lights
For specialist use in the yard or garden these are designed for accent lighting along the edges of driveways, walkways, paths and entrances to homes, garages and other buildings. They can also be used to enhance any other features which you want to illuminate within your garden.
Solar Lanterns
Typically these solar light fixtures include many different and unique designs of solar lights to enhance any part of your garden and yard. You will find designs that vary from the very traditional to the ultra-modern and the styles in between so that you will be able to create or compliment any style you want.
Solar Motion Sensor Lights
Perfect for lighting those areas that you only want illuminated when you or an intruder approaches. They enhance the safety and security of your home for you and all of your family. Because solar lights are easy to install they can be located in those places where traditional lights and the wiring required are a problem.
Solar Spot Lights
Use solar spots to light up any individual objects outside you home such as trees, bushes, a flower bed, statues or even a pond or stream. They can be mounted low or high to give different effects. They are easy to install as they require no external wiring and can be simply attached to a stake, normally supplied with them, which can be pushed in to the dirt wherever you like.
Solar Flood Lights
If you want to light a much larger area then solar flood lights will help you to do this. Again they can be mounted low for a very dramatic effect or even used to light up a large area of a wall or side of a building to give a silhouette effect to any trees or bushes etc which are located in front of them.
Solar Sign Lights
No need to get electricity down to the end of your driveway anymore if you want to illuminate the number of your house at night. Just use a solar powered sign light to get a great effect and allow everyone who is visiting you to find you really easily.
Solar Pond and Pool Lights
Today you can now get small solar powered lights in a wide rage of different colors that will float permanently in your pool or pond to giving a dramatic and potentially moving light show all night long. If you haven’t seen these then you really should as the effect they give is very impressive.
Solar Flag Light
Just like the solar sign lights there are now specialist lights for lighting the flag on your flag pole if you have one or the whole flag and pole together.
Solar Rope Lights
These are great for creating great lighting effects anywhere in your yard and garden but especially on patios and decks, They can be run along anything such as under a deck railing or around things such as tree trunks and deck posts or hung on buildings or in trees.
Solar Christmas Lights
Yes, you now even get solar Christmas lights for your tree or other features outside and around your home. But you don’t have to just use them at Christmas as they can be hung in any tree or bush or other suitable object at any time of the year, even all year if you want. Great for parties and other special occasions
Have Fun with Solar Lights
Use your imagination to get any lighting effect you desire. Outdoor solar lights will help you do it cheaply and easily while you have lots of fun.
