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Designing Solar Power Systems for the Home

Design Factors that will Affect Solar Power Performance – The design for any solar power system is essential for optimal performance. Using quality materials such as solar panels and inverters is key.

Design Factors for Solar Power Performance
Electrical Question: I am trying to build a solar panel powered appliance the appliance will use about 150 watts.

I will have about 200 watt solar panels hooked up to 4 12 volt batteries my questions are:

How long will it take to charge the 4 12v battery using the spare 50 wattage or the entire 200 watts?
How long will the 48 volts power the 150 watts?
Are there any overcharging problems and how can I fix them?

Background: Anthony, a Homeowner from Sierra Vista, Arizona
Additional Comments: easy and helpful

Dave’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Anthony.

Design Factors that will Affect Solar Power Performance

The design for any solar power system is essential for optimal performance.
Using quality materials such as solar panels and inverters is key.
The type and size of the batteries that will have a great deal to do with performance as well.
The type of loads that will be placed on the system will have a great deal to do with the amount and duration of power that will be available.

The Following will assist you with Solar Power

Solar Power for the Home

You have many options for using renewable energy
From solar-powered outdoor lights to buying renewable energy from your utility to even producing solar electricity at home with photovoltaic (PV) cells

Electrical Panel Circuit Listing

Electrical Panel

House Wiring Circuits and Circuit Breakers
This article looks at common 120 volt and 240 volt house wiring circuits and the circuit breakers that are installed identifying the types and amperage sizes used in most homes.

» You Can Avoid Costly Mistakes! «

Here's How to Do It:
Wire It Right with the help of my Illustrated Wiring Book
Great for any Home Wiring Project.

Complete Guide to Home Electrical Wiring

Perfect for Homeowners, Students,
Handyman, Handywomen, and Electricians
Includes:
Wiring GFCI Outlets
Wiring Home Electric Circuits
120 Volt and 240 Volt Outlet Circuits
Wiring Light Switches
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Electric Range
Wiring 3-Wire and 4-Wire Dryer Cord and Dryer Outlet
How to Troubleshoot and Repair Electrical Wiring
Wiring Methods for Upgrading Electrical Wiring
NEC Codes for Home Electrical Wiring
....and much more.

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Be Careful and Be Safe - Never Work on Energized Circuits!
Consult your Local Building Department about Permits and Inspections for all Electric Wiring Projects.

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» How to Wire it Right «

Home Wiring Guide

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Home Electrical Wiring and Electrical Repairs

Please Note:
Unless otherwise posted, please refer to the following Guidelines when working on Electrical Projects:

Skill Level:
Intermediate to Advanced - Electrical Repairs and Circuit Wiring is Best Performed by a Certified Electrician or Licensed Electrical Contractor.

Electrical Tools Required:
Basic Electricians Pouch of Hand Tools, a Voltage Tester and a Multi Meter.

Estimated Time:
Depends on personal level experience, ability to work with tools, work with electrical wiring, and the available access to the project area.

Precaution:
Identify the project circuit, turn it OFF and Tag it with a Note before working with the wiring.

Important:
Modifying existing electrical circuits or installing additional electrical wiring should be done according to local and National Electrical Codes, with a permit and be inspected.