checking out solar for the newbie

[ramjet]

I have searched on site and found really random info. I would like to get some solar for the house but cannot seem to get a good fix on whats needed and if I would save money if at all. It seems to cost a fortune just to install it, and now you can "rent" a system? If there is a thread for me that you guys and gals think is good please tag it for me. Also if you have solar and what you think would help as well. Kinda neophite of me and all but looking for alternatives to when the power goes out (Ie. summer storms) to possibly offseting my power bill. I would like to run my AC longer. To cut costs, we have raised the thermostat higher and that just sucks! So, I guess a colimiin (sp) or hell break loose prep to think about for me. :confused:

[Lowdown3]

Colmolliin

Sounds like you first need to figure out what you really want to do long term with any system you will put together.

Going grid tied with no batteries (reverse metering type stuff) will eliminate the batteries but could open up more hassles for you IMO.

Start off by reading the "really random info" on the site about AE and then figure out what you want to do. Seldomseenslim just posted a great primer in Homesteading a week or so ago.

[BAK]

I'm in the same boat as you. Started by getting a 45 watt kit last month from Harbor Freight for $150 on grand opening day in a local store. It came with all the basics: solar panels, a regulator to control the charge and to make sure that the batteries are not over charged and also not discharged when the sun isn't shining. Also came with two 5W lights in plastic protectors. Battery wise I already had a car jump pack. It has a battery and inverter built in so it can do both jobs...unless I ask too much of it. These are the basics of solar power. You can start small and expand on it when you get more finances. With this set up, I can't run the AC but at least I have light and an opportunity to recharge batteries from flashlights and such. Next step- bigger deep cycle batteries.

[1Admin]

https://www.survivalandpreparednessforum.com/showthread.php?114-Beginning-your-alternate-energy-journey&highlight=beginning+journey

[BAK]

https://www.survivalandpreparednessf...inning+journey

Yeah, I know, you get what you pay for. Harbor freight is definitely not high quality. However being in unemployed and in school for the past 4 years and now 225K in debt, I figured something is better than nothing. At least it will give me the option of recharging batteries and having some light. Give me couple of years to get through residency and it will be a different ball game.

[1Admin]

The point is beginning with the end in mind.