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.