Solar Contractor - What Types of Panels Will They Install?

Jul 2
07:11

2010

Andrew Stratton

Andrew Stratton

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the different types of solar panels and where they work best and how to install.

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Going solar is not only a great choice for living green but it also is a great choice for saving the green- dollars that is. Solar power has been around for awhile now but the popularity of going solar has become increasingly popular as consumers realize the benefits to living a green lifestyle.

Solar power is derived from the sunlight and is turned into electricity through two different panel systems. Photovoltaic (PV) works directly to transform sunlight into electricity while concentrating solar power (CSV) works indirectly to do convert sunlight into electricity. Where you live will influence how great your solar power abilities are. Homes in areas that don't see a lot of sunlight such as South Dakota can still go solar of course but may still have to rely on back up generators or conventional electricity for days that aren't generating enough solar power. Other areas that have an abundance of sunlight such as Nevada,Solar Contractor - What Types of Panels Will They Install? Articles California, Arizona, Colorado and Utah which are all in the Sun Belt or the general area are more naturally geared for the ease of going solar almost exclusively with very little back up sources of electricity needed.

Solar panels are the foundation for any photovoltaic system so if you are planning to convert to solar power here are some basics you will need to know.

There are three different types of solar panels- single crystal, multi or poly crystalline and amorphous silicon. Single crystal panels are the most effective since they have they produce the maximum power per square foot.

Solar panels are installed on the roof with solar mounting jacks with metal flashings placed over them and then a layer of roofing is hot mopped on top of the installation brackets. The solar power panels are then mounted on top of the mounting jacks and connected to the converter. If it is at all possible it is ideal to install solar paneling when you are reroofing so the panels can be installed correctly and sealed against letting in rain or moisture.

Solar panels will last about twenty five years which is a good long lifetime and they will simply wear out and produce less and less electricity as they age until they need to be replaced.

The panels themselves are not horribly complex to install but it is a big enough job, especially if you want to have the roof redone at the same time that it should be tackled by a contractor to be done correctly.