HOW DOES A SOLAR PANEL WORK?

​Solar powered products are definitely saving homeowners a huge amount of money by reducing electricity bills. While majority may be aware of solar products, there might only be a few who actually know how these solar products are powered. What works behind solar products and enable them to carry out each task in an energy-efficient manner? A solar product draws power to operate from solar panels installed outside the house and sometimes on the roof-top.

What is a Solar Panel?

Solar panels are devices ideally placed in areas such as rooftops or on backyards where there's plenty of sunlight that would shine on the panels directly. It would trap the sunlight, directly or indirectly, and convert it to produce electricity. The panels are also known as photovoltaics, a technology of converting sunlight into electricity. A solar panel is made up of silicon cells with photovoltaic elements. There are three main types of solar panels:

1. Monocrystalline: Made from silicone, monocrystalline is  a cylindrical shaped solar panel and was first invented in the 1950s. The performance efficiency rate of monocrystalline is the highest in the industry. The Monocrystalline solar panel or cell’s efficiency is 21% higher than the other solar panels. It works quite well even in low-light condition, however its performance decreases with an increase in temperature. The monocrystalline panel may be expensive to install and requires proper maintenance as its circuit breaks down easily.

2. Polycrystalline:  Polycrystalline is also made from silicone. Its manufacturing process includes decanting silicon into a mold to form panels. The Polycrystalline solar panels make a great fit for homes. They are highly efficient and cost-effective. A solar panel made-up of Polycrystalline requires large space for installation to produce power output similar to that of Monocrystalline.

3. Thin film: The thin film solar panel is created by layers of photovoltaic elements like amorphous silicon or organic photovoltaic cells. A solar panel made-up of thin film can produce power at mass and works well even in low-light conditions. The thin film solar panels require more space for installation and ideal for businesses rather than homes where space is limited. Installing the thing film solar panel isn’t easy. You may have to buy supporting components such as cables and more. Unlike monocrystalline and polycrystalline the thin film solar panel doesn’t last long. They can break down due to climate changes.

You can choose any type of solar panel that you think would meet the energy requirement of your house and business. Knowing its types, pros and cons can help you land with a great deal. TEO Solar offers professional solar panel installation and removal services in Palm Coast, Ormond Beach, New Smyrna Beach and surrounding areas. To learn more call us today at 386-437-2671.  

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