Image by Dept of Energy Solar Decathlon
From left: Team Boston students Ross Trethewey, Michael Sidebottom and Dante DeMeo explain the mechanical closet of their solar-powered home during the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Decathlon on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., Sunday, Oct. 11, 2009..
(Photo by Stefano Paltera/US Dept. of Energy Solar Decathlon)
Question by Michael: I wish to use solar power to run my swamp cooler?
I live in Colorado – given the amount of sunshine we have Iwe should be able to use solar power to run it – but I have no idea how much of a set up I would need – nor even how to go about calculating it. Any suggestions?
Add your own answer in the comments!
I hate to differ with self appointed experts but, Sharp Electronics has a solar panel manufacturing plant in Memphis, Tn and their units have a 25 year warranty on power output.
nathan f
January 26, 2013 at 3:40 pm
Hi, Michael! Well, realistically, there are all sorts of variables involved. Among them, in addition to the consideration of the types and quantities of appliances you’ll want to be powered, you’ll have to consider the type of solar panels you want, since there are all sorts of types of panels, varying in quality and the amount of solar energy they create.
So, for starters, here is a link to the section of a handy, informational site that is devoted to solar power information and it also includes other information on other alternative energies–I know generally there are all sorts of government grants and rebates, etc:
http://wikihousepedia.org/Your_Handyman_Zone_How_To_Pages_Home_Improvement_Zone_Alternative_Energy_Systems.htm
Your best bet is also to seek the advice of local electrical contractors, since they usually install them. Free estimates from local electrical contractors (who hook up solar panels, etc.) are the key to your success in this home improvement project of yours. Here’s another site link that offers free very resourceful information to assist you in your project, and, ultimately, selecting a local electrical contractor/ in an effort to get the best deal for you:
Local electrical contractor info (who may assist with your solar project):
http://wikihousepedia.org/Y_Assistancewiki_Free_Est_Electrical.htm
I’m sure you’ll find the information you need, specifically the tips, useful as it relates to being treated fairly by contractors and exploring the consumer-wise approach of getting free written estimates to find the best contractor in your area.
Hope this really helps, and good luck!
.
Source(s):
My noggin. Online sources, such as the wiki site noted above, which came with my creative efforts.
Garden
January 26, 2013 at 4:24 pm