FAQs: Solar Energy and Solar Units

Last updated 1 year ago

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Solar energy boasts a long list of benefits for the average household, so it’s no surprise that homeowners have questions about the power source. This solar energy FAQ can help you decide if a solar AC unit is right for your home.

How Does Solar Energy Work? Solar energy is collected by an array of photovoltaic cells. These cells absorb light photons with the help of a silicon semiconductor surface—the semiconductor detaches electrons from sunlight and allows them to flow throughout the photovoltaic cell. These electrons are then drawn by a metallic contact into a current, which in turn powers a solar-device. Photovoltaic cells can be made small enough to power a calculator or large enough to power an entire heating and cooling system.
What Are My Solar Unit Options? There are two major types of solar-powered AC systems. Grid-tied options are linked directly to the home’s traditional electricity. This allows your home’s power grid to supply electricity during the nighttime. Grid-tied systems can even earn your household power company credits any excess converted energy. Homeowners without direct access to a power line can invest in stand-alone systems as well. These units are great for remote homes but don’t offer the extra advantages that come with grid-tied system.
How Can Solar Units Help Me Save Money? Solar units offer several types of savings for your home. Since your HVAC unit uses so much power, any offset provided by solar panels will produce big energy savings. Your solar unit can also offset energy costs for other appliances when the AC is shut off for cold weather. In addition, the solar credits earned from the power company translate to further energy bill reductions.

Don’t let your air conditioning unit run up high costs this summer. Instead, contact Jacksonville’s AC experts. One call to (904) 278-0339 puts you in touch with McGowan's Heating and Air Conditioning. Our solar solutions are the perfect answer to your energy cost issues.