solar power fan for car

solar power fan for car

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So you decided to build your own solar power system? Building your own system can seem like a lot of work but if you follow my tips below maybe I can save you some time and money. In fact I now actually enjoy building my own solar panels once I learned the short cuts.

First of all, you must purchase grade A solar cells, do not listen to these so-called experts telling you that the B grades are just a s good because they simply are not the same. You could compare it to purchasing a car, Cadillac or Volkswagen. I have purchased both and for the cost difference the cheaper ones are not worth the hassle. The B cells have chipped irregular edges and break easier. The grade A cells are more uniformed and much easier to align when building your solar panels.

One very good tip is to use a piece ¾" x 6" wide by 4' long board and attach a wooden yard stick to the side of it. This becomes very handy when you start to solder your cells together. By placing your cells against the yard stick, not only does this keep your groups of cells in a straight line but also allows for your spacing using the marks on the yard stick. You will end up with perfectly straight rows of cells which saves you time trying to line them up.

When soldering your solar cells, use a low melting point solder available at any electronics or hardware store, and use a low temperature soldering iron. These two tips will save you time, because if you use too much heat, you will damage the cell causing them to become even more subject to breaking. Make sure you use a flux pen and dab each silver tab when soldering. I did learn that the tab wire does already contain solder on it, which works fine when soldering the top of the cell but when you solder the back side of the cell you must apply a small dab of solder to each silver tab. This is one of those items that I had to learn the hard way!

Remember to size your wire to the smallest possible by the national electrical code, because when placing your Plexiglas over your cells you do not want your wire to push your up on the cover which will cause a potential problem spot. My first solar panel I built I used a number 12 stranded wire which made my Plexiglas rise up and allow for condensation. My next cells I built I used number 16 wire thus making the installation look much more professional.

I hope these tips for building your own solar system can save you time and money also.

Jerry Standefer is owner and author of several alternative energy websites. His websites teach you how to build your own wind turbine, build your own solar panels, and build a solar hot water heater. The main website Earth Power Energy Systems has received many reviews from other energy websites. Sign up at the website for a free energy report entitled "Why Build Your Own Wind and Solar System" Get your copy today! Follow Jerry on Facebook Fan Page and join in on the discussions about alternative energy.

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