DIY Solar Power

There are many different ways to make use of the light and heat energy emitted by the sun. Some common ideas include:

- Taking advantage of the heat given off by the sun to regulate home temperature (passive solar energy)

- Thermal solar collectors: with the use of mirrors, the suns energy can be intensified and used to heat water or air

- Photovoltaic cells: sun light can be converted into electricity to be used in the home

Simply taking advantage of or controlling the heat given off by the sun is known as Passive Solar Power. Although most of these techniques are relatively straight forward, they can have a substantial impact on monthly utility bills. Some easy things that can be done around the house include:

- The most important step in taking advantage of the suns heat is to have a well insulated home. Ensuring that walls, ceilings, and floors are adequately insulated can have a tremendous effect on maintaining a constant home temperature. Also check for insulation in spots such as around windows, doors, and electrical outlets.

- Another effective technique for keeping warm air in or cold air out is using curtains. Similarly, window shutters or clear insulating strips can also do a good job at regulating inside temperatures.

- Something most people do not realize is that plants can play a strong role in determining the temperature of a house. In addition to providing fresh air, plants placed effectively around windows and doorways can function as a sort of heat barrier, keeping a house cool in the summer.

In addition to taking advantage of the sun in a passive way, one can use a more active approach. As mentioned above, a thermal solar collector is a great tool for using the suns tremendous temperature output to heat water or a space.

A common device that is used to heat up water or air is known as a "thermal collector". This device is basically a glass covered panel that holds metal plates (usually dark). These plates absorb the heat, and in turn transfer it to the substance that is to be heated. The heated substance (water, air, etc) can either be used immediately or be collected in a well insulated storage tank for later use.

In conclusion, light can also be converted to electricity through the use of photovoltaic cells, commonly known as solar panels. A very basic description of what happens inside these panels is that the light displaced by the sun causes a reaction within the cells, resulting in charged electrons. These can then be used directly as electricity in a home, or stored in a deep cycle battery for later use.

About the author: Miles Novak is a writer and enthusiast of alternative energy. Visit his webpage for more info on Do it Yourself products and Home Energy Solutions.

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5. Solar Power Energy Solves Your High Energy Costs