19/05/2017
SOLAR (PV) POWER FAQs
Q: How do solar (photovoltaic) panels work?
A: Solar panels absorb the sun’s energy and convert it into direct current (DC). The DC current is then converted to usable AC electricity by an inverter. During the day, excess DC current produced by the solar panels is stored by a set of batteries for use at night.
Q: Can I use solar (photovoltaics) panels to power my home?
A: Solar panels (PV) can be used to power your entire home's electrical systems, including lights, cooling systems, and appliances. The most common practice is to mount modules onto a roof or wall.
Q: How big a solar energy system do I need?
A: The size of solar system you need depends on several factors such as how much electricity you use and the size of your roof or installation space for solar panels. Also, whether you want the system to supply your complete energy usage or just help reduce energy cost. You can contact APS to determine the type of system which can suit your needs.
Q: Why should I use a solar (photovoltaics) panels system?
A: People decide to buy solar energy systems for a variety of reasons. For example, some individuals buy solar products to reduce the amount of electricity they buy from the power utility company and to provide power during a utility power outage, thereby adding power reliability to their home. Some individuals live in areas where the cost of extending power lines to their home is more expensive than buying a solar energy system.
Q: Will my system work on cloudy days?
A: Yes, though they produce less electricity. Under a light overcast sky, panels might produce about half as much as under full sun
Q: Should I mount my solar panel on the roof or on the ground?
A: It depends. Roof-mounted tends to be less expensive as they require no support structures and are most often not visible to passersby. On the other hand, ground-mounted systems can usually be oriented and tilted to optimize production.
Q: What maintenance is needed?
A: Solar PV systems are solid-state technology, have no moving parts and require no maintenance beyond cleaning, which is easy to do. Most systems should be cleaned once or twice a year, concentrated in the dry season. Inverters are also solid-state and require little to no maintenance beyond regularly checking the cooling fan outlets and cleaning when necessary. However yearly inspections by a competent technician is recommended.