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Did you know that in 2021, the United States generated roughly 13.5% of its electricity from renewable sources and 2.8% of its total electricity from solar energy? Solar energy is by far fresher and cheaper than any other alternative. The tiny wires are easy to install in a residential or commercial setting.
Everyone could use a bit more energy and a greener habit. Solar power is not a prop in a science-fiction movie. More and more homeowners are switching to solar power.
Today, solar power is a sound long-term investment that can save you in the long run. If you keep reading this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the different parts and functions of a residential solar panel system.
Solar Cells
Most residential solar panels use mono-crystalline or poly-crystalline solar cells, which are comprised of silicon-doped wafers. Each of these wafers is assembled using photovoltaic cells, which convert sunlight into electrical energy. The array of solar cells is connected to two metal contacts on the underside of the panel, creating a photovoltaic effect.
The front of the panel is coated with a special anti-reflective coating that helps to maximize the absorption of sunlight. The back of the panel is often made of a durable polymer material to protect the solar cells from the elements. Incorporating top quality solar installation will ensure many years of trouble-free operation.
Batteries
The batteries provide an extra storage facility for any excess solar energy produced when the sun is shining. Batteries can be either a deep cycle or a shallow cycle.
Deep cycle batteries are designed for long-term storage of energy to meet energy demands. Shallow cycle batteries are designed to provide quick bursts of energy to meet peak demand requirements. Proper matching of the battery type to the solar panel system is essential to ensure optimal performance.
Batteries have a life of up to 20 years and should be maintained to ensure the greatest performance. By having these batteries in place, the system can provide an uninterrupted source of solar-powered electricity during times when the sun is not shining. The batteries also act as a backup and can be used in case the power goes out or in emergencies.
Power Meters
The power meter is used to measure the amount of electricity produced by the solar panel. It sends this information to the power grid. This allows homeowners to track how much energy they’re producing or it can be used as a billing meter to see how much energy they are using.
Homeowners can make any necessary adjustments to maximize their energy efficiency with this meter. Enhanced safety features are also built into the power meter to help ensure that the monitored electricity is regulated. The power meters also help utility companies measure the electricity consumption of the general public.
Monitoring and Control Systems
Monitoring and control systems work together to adjust the flow of electricity generated by the PV system to meet the demands of the particular home’s electrical needs. The monitoring and control system monitors the activity of the solar panels and other components to optimize the system’s performance and stability.
Related article: 10 Reasons to Use Commercial Solar Panels for Your Business
The monitoring system can detect any potential problems before they cause damage. This could include unbalancing of a solar panel or any other abnormal system temperature or voltage. It can also detect any changes in energy output, enabling the system to be adjusted.
Mounting Racks and Frames
Mounting racks and frames will provide support to the panels and protect them from external elements. Mounting racks feature aluminum and stainless steel components that are engineered to hold the solar panel in place and withstand wind, snow, and other weather phenomena.
The frames are installed on the roof or against a wall. They are also adjustable to ensure an optimal angle that maximizes solar collection from the sun.
Many mounting frames come with attachments or components to hook up extra solar panels. As such, mounting racks and frames are critical for residential solar panel systems, as they will ensure optimal results for years to come.
Cabling
Cables are used to transport the electricity generated by the solar panel itself to the inverter and then to the house. Cables come in a variety of lengths, sizes, and types to fit the application.
Direct-buried cables are designed for underground applications. Other types of cables, such as MC4 cables, are designed for high-temp conditions.
Each solar panel contains black, red, and grounding cables. The black and red cables travel from the solar panel to the controller and provide the flow of power from the solar panel to the controller. Cables also travel from the controller to the battery, providing a complete circuit for the energy that your system is producing.
The cables must also connect to a ground block, where they are tied together, protecting against surges and shocks. Cables are also available in different gauges to accommodate the electrical load the panel is producing. Cables must be chosen carefully to ensure the utmost efficiency of the system.
Inverters and Disconnects
Solar panels take the direct current generated by the sun and convert it into useful alternating current electricity. The inverter is responsible for this conversion. It can be of several types, from a central string inverter to several micro-inverters for each panel.
Inverters can be either grounded or ungrounded. The type of inverter used typically depends on the requirements of the local utility company. Inverters are important components of a residential solar panel system because they ensure that the electricity generated by the PV panels is at the right voltage and current to be fed into the utility grid.
Disconnects are usually located before the power inverter. It acts as a safety precaution for those servicing the panel components. Disconnects are necessary for the inverter to be powered off in emergencies and to prevent it from feeding electricity back into the main power grid.
Disconnects also check and protect the inverter from hazards such as overheating, lightning, and other power shutdowns. The equipment is tested and certified by the local power company and is designed to meet safety standards and codes. The inverter and disconnects are integral to the residential solar panels, enabling them to maximize electricity conversion and protecting them from power shutdowns.
Understanding Residential Solar Panel System
A residential solar panel system consists of critical components such as mounting equipment, solar panels, and inverters. An experienced installer is required to design and install a panel system to maximize energy production. Explore the many benefits of solar energy and contact your local installer today.
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