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Originally we used the power only to run the web site.
Now we use the system predominantly for the home office.
Running a server 24/7, as well as powering other desktops, notebooks and network related systems.
When the sun is really beating down it even gets used for a little air conditioning.
Some of the appliances that this system has powered in the past: Refrigerator Answering machine Multiple fans Lighting in living room and bedroom 30" & 20" TV's Stereo VCR DVD player Amateur Radio equipment and miscellaneous other devices Current measured utilization of solar power in the office is running about 3.5 KWh/day, and with no other devices running on the local utility it makes my home office totally independant - it's like running on the ultimate UPS! Being a renter it's more than a little hard for me to convert the home to 100% solar, but when we have our own home it will happen! Solar power is the cleanest electrical power that exists on the earth, and we are proud to make use of it! We still have a few more panels in the garage that would love a place in the sun and to power the whole house. |
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You don't have to start with solar electric, but it's cousin solar heating.
Look up solar water heating on the Net, any you'll find many, many sources about how to contruct your own starter system for experimentation.
Solar ovens are also a great way to cook a meal during the day, like a solar crock pot.
We just love our home made solar cooker and it does a great job.
Even cooked a full Thanksgiving dinner for two in it once!
If you really want to look into solar electricity, take a look at Home Power Magazine, the greatest source for home alternative energy I know.
This magazine is staffed by some of the best people in the world that I know, and they put out a great publication!
AND... It's a free download on the Internet!
Above all... Take a look at making a change in your life! Change your normal household lightbulbs to compact fluorescents; they're not the fluorescents you grew up with! Turn off lights when you don't need them. Stop the water when you don't really need it. Conserve, conserve, conserve... Not only your future, but the future of your children and their children may depend on it! |