When considering solar collection as a viable way to power your home, you need to determine the amount of power you need and then decide how to collect and store the energy. Solar system construction can be complex, and getting everything right is crucial if you are considering leaving the power grid entirely. 

Choosing Solar Panels

Solar system construction starts with solar panels used to collect sunlight and convert it to energy. The panels come in different wattage ratings and depending on how much electricity is required, you can add panels until you get a combined number that meets your needs. 

Determining how much electricity you are currently using each month is not difficult. You can use your electricity bill as a guide and then work with a solar contractor to determine how precise your figure is. Once you know how much power you consume regularly, you can plan to match or exceed that with your solar system. 

It is essential to work out your needs for a twenty-four-hour cycle because you can not collect solar overnight, so you will need a system large enough to power your home during the day and store enough electricity for the dark hours. You will also need to consider when the sun is up, but it is overcast, raining, or there is no sun to power the system.

Mounting Your Panels

When solar system construction begins, you will need to decide where the solar panels are going on the property. Ideally, you want the panels on a roof facing south so that they are exposed to the sun for the majority of the day. If you do not have a south-facing roof, you may need to consider putting the panels on a ground mount to get the sun exposure you need.  

If you have a garage that faces the right direction, you could install the panels on that roof if there is space. A small garage may not hold enough panels, but you could use it and then use a smaller gound mount in addition to maximizing the coverage. Your solar contractor can help you layout the system on your property. 

Storage And Control

Along with the solar panels, your solar system construction needs to include the system's charge controllers and storage batteries. The charge controller ensures that the batteries are not overcharged but keeps them topped up and ready for use. The controller also controls the flow of electricity into your home to ensure you get a clean, reliable stream of electricity into the electrical panel and other parts of the house.

Your solar contractor can set up this entire system for you, but try to get involved, so you understand the system and how it works. Running on solar power is different than power from the pole, and it is critical that you know what to do in an emergency and how to troubleshoot the system after it is set up and the contractor is off to the next job.

Contact a company like Evergreen Renewables to learn more.