In our first installment of How Does Solar Power Work, we went over the basics as well as the benefits. From reducing your costs to causing your electric meter to run backwards, it is no secret that solar power has its benefits. Many people are installing solar panels on their homes, as promises of becoming less dependent on energy companies excites homeowners. Solar power reduces your carbon footprint, but how does solar power work?

How Does Solar Power Work?

• Solar Panels Can Face East, South or West. The ideal placement of solar panels is facing due south. You need a clear view to the south from 10am to 4pm. You can place them on an east or west facing roof if you have a clear view of the horizon shortly after sunrise or sunset respectively.
• Inverters Turn DC power into AC power. Solar panels produce the same type of energy stored in your car battery, called Direct Current. An solar power system uses an inverter to turn that energy into something your appliances can use. This is called Alternating Current. The two types of inverters are central inverters, and micro-inverters.
• Inverters Work With Utility Power. Grid-Tie systems, which are designed to work with utility power so the home can use both energy sources at the same time. Inverters synchronize with utility grid to make sure your solar energy is used first.
• Solar Requires Safety Disconnects. A knowledgeable solar installer will install safety disconnects on the exterior of the home and breakers to allow the system to be safely shut down. Solar electric systems are very safe and reliable when installed properly.
• Grid Tie Solar Works When the Power is On. Most grid tie systems are designed without batteries so the system has little or no maintenance. This means that when the utility power goes out, the solar system shuts down as well. This is because the inverters have a safety system to prevent power from being sent out to the grid and possibly injure a utility worker who is trying to restore your power.
• Batteries can be added to a Grid Tie System. If the homeowner is willing to maintain the batteries, a transfer switch and an additional battery inverter can be installed to allow the system to operate when the utility power is out.

Now that we’ve answered the burning question “how does solar power work,” it’s time you get a FREE site survey to see if your house is a good candidate for a solar array!

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We’ll let you know if your house is a good candidate for a solar array.

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About Tim Kyle Electric

Tim Kyle Electric has been delighting our customers with responsive, trusted and professional electrical services since 1986. We provide residential, commercial and solar power services and are experts in our field. Our team of professionally trained employees uphold our core values of honesty, respect and integrity. We are available 24/7 for your electrical servicing needs. Get in touch with us today to discuss your next electrical project.

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