Apr 21 2008
How to Make a Solar Power Generator
With a solar power generator you will be able to harness the power of the sun and convert it into energy. You can then take this energy and use it for various applications in and around the home, and you can even use solar energy to power a car.
You can purchase a solar power generator or you may decide that you want to make your own. Of course this will require a little bit of time and effort on your part but will just help to cut costs for you even further.
Getting Started
To build a solar power generator, the first thing you need to do is gather together the necessary materials and equipment. You are going to need a small solar panel, which you can usually find for less than a hundred dollars.
Then you need to buy yourself a battery, and make sure you get a deep cycle 12 volt lead/acid or gel battery. These batteries will be the most durable and last you the longest time, which is really important.
Get a battery box to put the battery in, which should only cost you about ten bucks, and then buy a 12 volt DV meter, and a DC input. Keep in mind that the generator you are building will only power DC appliances such as lights, baby bottle warmers and vacuum cleaners, and if you want to be able to power AC appliances then you will have to invest in an inverter.
The next step is to use a drill to attach the meter and the DC input to the top of the battery box, then you want to use some insulated wire to attach the meter to the wingnut terminals on the battery.
This is the final stage of the process. You need to close the lid and then put the solar panel in the sun until it has stored up enough energy to charge the battery, and after only a few hours it will be able to run smaller appliances, such as radios and fans.
Now you see that by using parts that are easily available from local stores you are able to build your own solar power generator, and this will be great for power failures and as well for life outside the power grid. Regardless of the reason that you wanted the generator, you will definitely be benefiting and building this solar power generator will be one of the best things you could ever have done.
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