How to Convert Sunlight to Energy

Sunlight is a potent energy source that is only beginning to be used to its potential. While there are many ways in which solar power is converted to energy, such as focusing the beam from a magnifying glass or growing vegetables in a greenhouse for food, the use that many homeowners find for solar energy is to reduce, or even eliminate, their dependence on local power companies. This presents a useful application of solar energy available to homeowners.

Solar panels

Instructions

- 1
  Get solar panels and determine your mounting options. Your first choice is to install the panels flat onto the roof, and then tar around the panels to prevent water from entering. The second option is to install the solar panels onto the roof using raised brackets. The brackets hold the solar panel approximately six inches above the surface of the roof, and you tar around the bracket only to prevent water seepage into the home.
- 2
  Raise the solar panels onto the roof and mount them in place. You must place them where they will get the greatest amount of sunlight throughout the day without being blocked by overhanging trees or other obstacles.
- 3
  Attach the power lines included with the solar panels to the collectors, and then route them over the side of the house near to where the electrical meter is located.
- 4
  Hire a certified electrician to connect the solar panels and the solar equipment to the home power. This is necessary to make certain that your installation meets electrical building codes in your area. In addition, working behind the electrical meter is extremely dangerous. The power between the electrical meter and the home's fuse box cannot be shut off without specialized equipment.

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