Category: Energy

So how do solar panels work? You might ask!

In this article we are going to explain how solar panels work, the science behind this amazing tech and the benefits to your household and the planet.

The basic steps in solar energy generation are as follows:

1. Sunlight shines on to the solar panels and produces an electronic field.
2. The electricity produced is then directed to the edge of the panel and collected by a conductive wire.
3. The electricity is then passed to an inverter via the conductive wire, it is then transformed from Direct current (DC) into Alternate current (AC) which is used to power most buildings.
4. Now a second wire transports the electricity from the inverter to the breaker box (which is also called an electric panel sometimes) and then it is distributed throughout the household.
5. Any surplus energy that is not used by the household whilst the system is in operation. Will be passed back to the grid and the meter will in fact run backwards as it credits your household for the extra energy.

If you would like to learn more about Solar PV Systems follow the link here.

The Science Behind How Solar Panels Work

Most people have a basic idea of how do solar panels work. We all know that they convert light from the sun into electricity for our home.

They can achieve this even on cloudy overcast days. As the panels only require day light not direct heat from the sun.

This is great news for UK homeowners at least.

Solar panels work by converting the light produced by the sun. The sunlight shines on to the panel and the clever photosynthesis system goes right to work.

The panel is made up of lots of smaller units inside. Each of these modules is made up of hundreds of cells. These cells are known as photovoltaic cells.

Each cell is made up of essentially of two layers of conducting material sandwiched around metal or other conductive materials.

Silicon is most commonly used for this material however silicon alone is not enough, so other materials are mixed in, too.  

The top layer of the module receives a negative charge from the sunlight hitting the panel. Whilst the bottom layer gets a dose of boron to create a positive charge.

Now as sunlight hits the panel the electrons from the phosphorus are jolted free and an electrical field is created.

To find out more follow the link here

How to find the right Solar Panels for your house?

Now you have the idea of, how do solar panels work you may have decided that going solar is the right choice for your household.

If so, the next step is to decide whether solar panels are suitable for your household. There are a few things to take into consideration at this point.

The direction of your roof is key. A south facing roof with no obstructions such as trees or other buildings to shade your roof space is also very helpful in gaining the most from your solar PV system.

The size of the system required will also vary dependent on the size of the household and the average energy consumption.

We would recommend you get an energy efficiency survey done before you make any final purchases to make sure you get the correct system for your household.

Contact Us

Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need any advice in the future.

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Click the link here to contact us today.

If you see your curtains swaying from a breeze with the windows closed then you probably need replacement windows. Drafts coming through unseen cracks of window frames are one of the leading causes of lost home heat and energy saving issues.

uPVC Replacement Windows

There are many brands in the window industry such as Anderson, Pella, Marvin, Milgard, Jeld-Wen. In general, if you choose one of the products from these companies, you are choosing the best that is out there.

Most of these companies produce high-quality uPVC windows. Being one of the best types of replacement windows and materials, uPVC never has to be painted, and it never warps or rots like wood.

It is also much more attractive than standard aluminium windows which cover many homes.

Single or Double glazed?

Houses built before the ’80s generally have single glazed windows. When replacing windows with cheaper and lower quality than double glazed, the long-term expense of single glazed windows can be staggering.

Even if the unseen open spaces are covered to avoid allowing drafts, the heat and cold transfer of a single glazed of glass can make a big difference. For example, using ENERGY STAR replacement windows, double glazed, can save as much as £500 per year by choosing double over single glazed windows.

Time is also a factor. Double glazed windows that have lost the vapour barrier between the glazing over time can also cost money. A new set of ENERGY STAR double glazed replacement windows can potentially pocket another £100/year in savings.

Glass panes alone are one of the worst insulators that can be used. but add a second pane with a vapour barrier in between, and you have one of the best. Add uPVC replacement windows to the plan, that will never rot or rust, and the savings in energy costs simply grow.

Security

Did you know that the correct replacement windows can save money on your homeowner’s insurance? They improve security as double glazing simply make it harder for intruders to break in. With the right kind of locking mechanism, you’ll be even safer. Increased safety equals lower insurance rates.

Costs

Some studies show that heating and air conditioning costs can increase by 25% with improper windows. With quality replacement windows, you can save 30% on energy costs.

With the energy-efficient models, you can save up to 50%. Difficult New England winters will no longer lower your bank account, and harshly hot Arizona summers will not draw the dollars out of your pocket. What replacement window price should you look for?

A moderately-priced window can cost approximately £600. The best window out there will be about £850. With heating or cooling costs of about £300 a month, you’ll potentially have a savings of £1800 a year. It will take just a few years to pay for your new windows.