With rising prices, it is good to get cheaper power. With solar power, it is practically energy for free, and could end up earning you money. For even more affordability, it is possible to build your own solar panel.
Ensure all the right equipment is to hand to avoid delay and frustration. The most important thing is to select the solar panels to be used. Time should be spent here, to ensure the exact right ones are used.
Having made that choice, you will also need; plywood, circular saw, 1 x1, screwdriver and screws, caulk, outdoor paint, solder and iron, glue, copper wire, a diode, batteries and Plexiglas.
Using your chosen cells as a guide, draw a grid on the plywood. Once satisfied, saw out the entire base and place to one side. It is now time to construct the actual panel itself.
Take your 1 x 1 and cut to size; determined by the size of your plywood panel. The panel should be attached to these using your screws, and applying suitable amounts of caulk and painted with outdoor paint to protect from the elements.
The solar cells now need to be glued into place. However, they first need to be attached in a series. This is quite simple; soldering the tabs at the back of each together. It does need to be done carefully though, as the cells are delicate.
Once all set into place, the copper wire and diode line can be attached from the panel to the electrical system. The diode is necessary here, as it will prevent power being lost through reverse transfer from the batteries.
Plexiglas now needs to be attached across the entire panel. Fix this into place with suitable amounts of caulk to thoroughly protect from the elements. Now you have managed to build your own solar panel for the first time; there should be no stopping you.
By using solar panels for homes you can save money, help the environment, and generate electricity using free energy from the sun with DIY solar panels.
categories: environment,home,home improvement,reference,education,energy efficiency,energy,solar energy,green living
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