The Easy Way To Make Solar Panels
I Want To Show You How To Make Solar Panels
More and more, people want to use better ways to make renewable energy. When you consider the growing costs of fossil fuels, going green is becoming a realistic option. The Do-It-Yourself energy movement has quickly become one of the fastest and best ways to save money and help the environment. The most commonly used solar technologies for homes and businesses are solar water heating, passive solar design for space heating and cooling, and photovoltaic solar panels for electricity. Making solar panels is easier than you might think, cost effective, and fun.
Here are some interesting projects to consider for using solar energy:
- a garden fountain
- the garage fridge
- light duty garage appliances
- a TV
There are many ways to make a solar panel, none of which is really all that hard. Depending on the type of supplies you use, your solar panel might very well cost about 200 dollars. You have a choice of many types of supplies when you make homemade solar panels. Your first major expense will be to buy the solar cells. A recent Ebay search showed tabbed solar cells for about $1.80 each and untabbed solar cells for about $1.10 each. Plywood might be your cheapest material to purchase, and you may even have some lying around the garage already. However, rather than plywood, I would recommend using a sheet of white or black plexiglass. It’s lighter, much nicer looking, and is more durable. You can probably find the size you need at your local hardware store or it can be bought online.
Once you have the back of your solar frame, you’ll need to put a frame around the edge. You can use either aluminum C frame material or wood. Aluminum is more costly, but it will last a good deal longer and weather the elements better. Your final piece of the puzzle is the cover. Some people use a sheet of glass. I would not recommend using glass, simply because it’s so fragile. Clear, UV-protected acryllic is the best option. Make sure, however, that it is UV-protected or it will turn yellow and reduce your panel’s effectiveness. As you begin your project, plan out each step and put your plan into writing. You can easily make solar panels with the right manual. The right guide book will help steer you in the best direction to make good decisions. Start small and work big. Be realistic in your expectations. Your first panel may not be prettiest girl at the party, but you’ll get better.
If you plan your solar project in detail you will save time and money. Balance the budget of your project between longevity and cost. You may have some old beat up pieces of scrap wood lying around the garage, but if you have replace your panels in a year because of rot, it may not be worth the effort. Consider trading the lower cost of untabbed solar cells for longer lasting plexiglass. Finally, keep in mind that you will be working with electricity so always be safe.
Tags: make a solar panel, make homemade solar panels, make solar panels, making solar panels
