Solar power accessories
include such items as inverters, generators, and solar collectors.
Smaller useful solar gadgets may also fit under this category, such
as solar chargers. Many of these items are part of photovoltaic technology,
meaning they turn sunlight directly into electricity.
Other items are more focused on capturing the heat which comes from
the sun. Devices that fall under this category would be called, "solar
thermal technology." The heat they capture is then used to accomplish
such tasks as heating water for pools or indoor needs.
Still other solar power accessories are created to simply store solar
energy. Aiding and securing the processing and storage of that energy
is another important function this equipment may be designed to accomplish.
One of the most important solar power accessories is a mounting device.
To be most effective, solar panels must be properly mounted. Here
are some tips for accomplishing this feat:
•Wind - the foundation for a solar array must be able to withstand
the wind load requirements of an area. It is a good move to ask a
local contractor how best to anchor an array to deal with the wind.
•Tilt - while unnecessary, energy production can be increased
by changing the tilt of solar panels every three months or so, depending
on the location of the sun. Tilting mounting devices can be useful
for this purpose. The best general tilt for a particular location
depends upon the latitude. Again, speaking with a professional may
be a good idea to determine the best option.
•Trackers – trackers orient solar photovoltaic panels
toward the sun throughout the day to ensure the most possible energy
production.
•Roof, ground, or pole - these are all different options for
mounting solar panels. If the panels are to be mounted onto a roof,
it would ideally be south-facing, unshaded, and angled. It is easier
to properly position panels that are mounted onto the ground or a
pole.
•Air - when using solar power accessories to mount panels to
a roof, be sure to allow a clear air flow path beneath the array to
keep the panels cooler.