Cutting through the misinformation, combined
with the confusing rhetoric of your utility supplier leaves most people
confused and perplexed.
SUNS UP SOLAR
tells it as it is - Just
contact us with any
questions or issues you may have about solar.
Not sure you understand 'solar jargon'? this
link will explain all those words you here when people talk about solar.
Most people considering Solar today think of PV (Photovoltaic) electric systems.
These installations convert sunlight into electricity. However another
option is Solar Thermal where sunlight is used to heat water. If you
would like to understand all about solar and how solar works please click
HERE
Typically a solar system will be 'Grid Tied' i.e. connected to PG&E
supply. Other configurations are available please follow the links
above to learn more.
SOLAR BASICS.
Solar Electric
Simply solar
electric or PV (photovoltaic) modules convert sunlight to electricity. The PV modules
generate DC electricity (DC) - sending it to the inverter. The inverter
transforms the DC power into AC electricity for ordinary household
needs. Your existing electrical panel
distributes solar electricity and utility power to appliances etc.
Click on the picture to the right to learn more about solar and how both solar
electric and solar hot water (thermal) systems work.
(courtesy of Schuco USA)
Solar Hot Water
Solar hot water is an age old idea and anyone who leaves their garden
hose in the sun will know that the sun can heat water. Today the systems
available are much more efficient and virtually maintenance free.
We provide and install Schuco thermal systems for our customers.
Schuco systems lead the world in reliability and design. These systems
are called 'closed loop' systems that transfer the heat from the panels
via a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger can be within a hot water tank
or stand alone. Schuco systems are also designed to facilitate 'steamback'
this is where the system is designed to allow the fluid in the solar
circuit to turn to steam when the panels over heat (this is common when
your hot water needs are low and the sun is shining). Many systems on
the market are not good at coping with this situation resulting in
replacement of the fluid every 2-3 years. Schuco systems, however, will
only need this maintenance every 8-10 years.
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