I'm in San Dimas and have been thinking of solar for years. Unfotunately, the size of the system I would need is cost-prohibitive right now.
I do, however, want to install something large enough to supply power to my swimming pool pump. My thought is that this runs every day, year round and is a sizable energy user, it would help in the long term.
Does anyone know of a site that shows how to do do-it-yourself solar systems.
DIY solar isn't really worth the work in my opinion. The problem your going to run into is sealing the panel tight enough to keep condensation out, which ultimately ends up killing the electronics in a few short years. In countries and remote areas where it's hard to get solar panels without paying a crazy amount on shipping, DIY may be economical, but here in the states your better off buying manufactured panels.
A friend installed a solar system and it break even point was estimated to be 13 years, but that assumes everything keeps working. If the price of electricity goes up (likely), then it will have a short payback time.
Personally, I don't see it as worth it for me. I would love to get a system, if I had the money, but I would want an off-grid system so that I would have power even if the electricity from SCE went out, like when they worked on the lines and had the power out for MUCH longer than they said they would.
Solar power is great to lower your home electricity bill and eventually if you buy an all electric car you will save there too. Gas prices are going up and up so its a good investment IMO.
Availability: In stock
Leaves the warehouse in 1-2 business days.
Quote:
Description of Chicago Electric Power Systems 90599
Solar panel kits are a great way to generate plenty of clean, quiet energy, using solar energy from the sun to run TVs, lights, computers, even recharge 12 volt DC batteries. Setting up Chicago Electric solar panel kits is easy. The solar panel kit comes with three 15 watt solar panels - simply connect the solar panels to your own 12 volt DC storage battery, and then use at least a 300 watt power inverter (sold separately) to power your 120 volt AC appliances anywhere.
Weatherproof solar power center works under all light conditions
Includes 3, 6, 9 and 12 volt DC adapter outlets
Easy-to-read LED charge indicator
Includes mounting hardware, lights, 12 volt DC socket and battery clamps
Overweight Item subject to $14.95 additional Freight Charge
Requires 12 volt storage battery and 300 watt power inverter (sold separately).
Maximum current: 3000 mA
15 watts max per panel
Peak voltage: 23.57 volts open current
Panel dimensions: 12.40" x 36.42" x 0.75" each
Shipping Weight: 49.65 lbs.
Linear Mode
