Q:when we say a solar panel has 20% efficiency, do we mean that it converts 20% of sunlight reaching it into electricity or that it converts 20% of visible light(which is only 7% of sunlight) into electricity?

That portion of the sun's light to which it responds, of which it converts 20% to electricity.

Q:A local air conditioning company is advertising combining their (newly installed) central air conditioning system for homes, with roof solar panels. They say that the combination MAY reduce your electric bill. Nothing I can see to back-up their claims. Hmmmmm. And they offer, if you can get it; central air conditioning that runs on natural gas. Again, possibly cheaper than using electricity.Has any one actually tested to find out if solar panels and/or natural gas DOES, or DOES NOT save you any money to make it worth the bother?

if you use solar panels it will make electric to run anything you want . it depends how much they charge to build the solar system if it makes sense, money wise. but if your asking if solar power makes enough electric to power an A/C the answer is , you bet your azz .. but only when the sun shines Nellie

Q:I have a 500 watt inverter and battery but need solar panels to run my need. I want to have enough juice to run a computer and monitor and sometimes a 5w amp. I am not sure how much power is needed to run the computer (standard desktop with 5flat screen with an additional surround sound system) though on the side of the computer it says 5 amp but I know I used to run it and monitor and surround sound with a heating blanket on the same circuit which was rated at 20 amps. My question is that I would like to go and buy some panels (cheaply as I'm unemployed) from somewhere like Harbor Freight that would meet the need of the converter to supply enough amperage. So what size panel(s) or panels would I need to run this setup? If I am correct I think 500 watts is equal to 5 amps. Would this even work? Could I run a partial system where I could run some of the stuff to take a load off? I need to lower my electric bill somehow. Thanks!

Solar okorder in their survival discussion in the archive, this exact project was discussed at length.

Q:Can solar panels be installed on historic homes or buildings?

Yes, solar panels can be installed on historic homes or buildings. However, the installation process may require careful planning and consideration to ensure that the panels do not compromise the historical integrity of the structure. Some guidelines and regulations may need to be followed, such as placing the panels on less visible areas or using panels that blend well with the building's design.

Q:What controllers and all that stuff do I need for these solar panels. Oh and the the batteries will be rigged up to a big electric motor so please leave information on how to wire the batteries to the motor...THANKS!!! 0 POINTS!

See answers to your previous questions!!

Q:my dad met a guy representive for a solar panel company at a swapmeet Scam?

Hard to say. Solar panels are becoming more common these days. May want to ask if the vendor is licensed and bonded contractor (if he's doing installation as well as panel sales). Find out the name of the equipment that this guy is selling (panels and other hardware) and do a search. For that matter, get the guys name and do a search on it to see he pops up elsewhere.

Q:Is it really necessary to make solar panels that expensive?

First Solar recently announced that their costs to produce panels dropped below $ per watt. I don't know how much of that is accounting tricks. Of course, that doesn't mean that they would sell panels for that price - any capitalistic company is expected to drive the price up to what the market will bear. Crystalline silicon panel producers are coming in at about $2.50/watt right now for the best of them. But again, the selling price is what the market will bear.

Q:What is the lifespan of solar panel batteries?

The lifespan of solar panel batteries can vary depending on various factors such as the type of battery, its quality, and usage patterns. Generally, solar panel batteries are designed to last between 5 to 15 years. However, with proper maintenance and care, some batteries have been known to last even longer.

Q:Can solar panels be installed on south-facing windows?

Yes, solar panels can be installed on south-facing windows, as long as there is enough sunlight exposure throughout the day. South-facing windows tend to receive the most sunlight, making them a suitable location for solar panel installation. However, it is important to consider any potential obstructions or shading that may affect the panel's efficiency.

Q:I need to know what the main components of a solar water heater and how they functionThanks if you answer x

For vacuum tubes solar heaters the main component include: solar tank, vacuum tubes, solar frames, and the pipelines and fittings of whole system