Solar electricity for homes is gaining popularity at lightning speeds. This is because the cost of natural resources is increasing by leaps and bounds every day, all around the world. Older style heating and cooling devices suck up energy and cost most homeowners a small fortune every month to operate. By utilizing natural solar energy you can drastically cut down on the costs of heating, cooling and supplying energy to your home.
Several solar panels for solar electricity for homes can be assembled with the right tools for less than $200 per piece. DIY solar panels for solar electricity for homes are drastically cheaper than ordering pre-fabricated ones and paying the high cost of professional installation.
Tools You Will Need
Wooden container
Saw
Drill
Screwdriver
Solar Cells
Silicone Caulk
Wood Glue
Wire Cutters
Wire Strippers
Soldering Iron
Solder
Plywood
Plexiglass
Purchase Solar Cells
Solar cells are used to absorb the suns rays and convert it into usable energy. The best place to find affordable solar cells is online through auction websites such as Ebay. You will want to look for “Grade A” solar cells only. These are the highest grade and better quality. A standard solar cell will generate 0.5-volts of energy. Each solar panel that you build will need 36 cells. You will need to determine the necessary energy your home needs to operate and build that number of solar panels. Solar cells are available in a variety of quantities and discounts can often be found for purchasing larger quantities.
Fabricate the Box
Using a saw, cut plywood to fashion a box that is big enough to hold 36 solar cells. If you do not have basic carpentry knowledge, then enlist someone who does. The box will need to have sides and a base. Drill holes on one side of the box to run the wires through. Cut a piece of plexiglass to fit the top of the box.
Attach the Cells
Next, attach each of the cells together using wire. The easiest way to do this without embarking on the challenges of electrical work is to purchase cells that have been pre-tabbed. These solar cells will allow you to only have to glue down the tabs. Solder the wires together. Carefully lift the solar cells and apply a dime size amount of caulk to the center of the back of each one. Lay the solar cells into the box. Attach using wood glue.
Final Steps for Solar Electricity for Homes
Thread the wires through the bottom of the container. Cover the solar panel with the plexiglass. Connect the wires to a voltmeter to determine how much energy it is absorbing and producing. For more detailed instructions and other ideas on DIY solar panels you can purchase specific solar panel plans from a variety of “green” energy websites. You will also find a variety of step-by-step videos on these websites and more information on the benefits of DIY solar electricity for homes. Overall, creating and using solar electricity for homes is a simple task that will save you hundreds of thousands of dollars over the years as the cost of natural fuels continues to rise.
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