Solar Power Systems for Homes

What Are The Different Systems For Capturing Solar Energy In Your Home?

With rising energy costs and increasing concern about environmental issues, it is no wonder renewable energy alternatives are becoming so popular.  Undoubtedly, the most reliable form of renewable energy is solar power. 

And with all the different types of solar panels available and all the tax incentives for purchasing them, it is no wonder so many people are choosing to look into solar power systems for homes.  This article will provide you with information about the different types of solar power systems for homes that are available. 

There are two basic types of solar power systems for homes: active and passive.  The most popular kind, active, usually has its own mechanical parts, while passive systems are usually built into part of a house.  For example, windows that face south or are specially tinted are passive. 

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There are two basic types of solar power systems for homes that use the sun's energy.  The first is the photovoltaic (PV) system, and the second is the solar thermal system.  The former creates electricity, and the latter creates heat, or sometimes cools. 

Photovoltaic Solar Energy Systems

The PV system is by far the most easily recognizable of the two.  Most people have seen solar panels angled toward the sky, catching the sun's rays.  The purpose of these panels is to create electricity that can be used in your home or elsewhere.  The electricity they produce is completely clean, but these units can have a very high initial cost. 

When installing a PV system, you have the option of tying it into the existing electrical grid or simply having it generate electricity independently.  Most people choose to tie into the grid, because doing so allows them to continue to have power at night, and often electricity companies will issue energy credit to you for any extra, unused electricity you produce with your system. 

Most PV panels use a silicon-based material to capture energy, and there are several different types on the market currently.  Generally the more you are paying for your system, the more effective its particular type of silicon cell is at capturing energy, but this is not always the case, so it is a good idea to check a product's efficiency rating before deciding to purchase it. 

Thermal Solar Energy Systems

Despite the fact that heating is one of the most expensive ways to use energy in your house, thermal solar systems are actually much cheaper than PV systems.  The most effective of these thermal systems are the ones designed to heat your water.  Keep in mind if you are considering one of these systems that you may need to go with an indirect system that uses an anti-freeze mediator if you are worried about freezing. 

Solar-powered space heaters are less efficient, but can still save you a lot of money on your heating bill.  There are even many systems available that combine space- and water-heating capabilities into one system. 

Strangely enough, there are also solar-powered cooling systems available for your home that are either absorption or desiccant based.  If you live in an area where summer cooling costs are a problem, it is probably worth at least researching into solar power systems for homes.