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Solar power has become an increasingly popular energy source in Central Florida due to its cost-efficiency and environmental friendliness. If you’re looking to make the switch to solar energy, it’s important to understand the types of batteries used for solar storage.

In this guide, our team at Solar Bear Orlando discusses four of the most common types of batteries used in solar storage systems so you can make an informed decision when it comes to powering your home with solar power.

Harness the Sun: Solar Storage Batteries Explained

Solar power is the way of the future, and Florida is a sun-soaked paradise that’s perfect for harnessing the power of the sun. One of the main challenges in using solar power, however, is that it can only generate electricity during daylight hours. This can be problematic for households and businesses that require power outside of these hours. Enter solar storage batteries – an innovative solution to this problem!

Solar storage batteries store excess energy generated by solar panels during daylight hours and release it back into the system when needed. These batteries are designed to work seamlessly with your existing solar panel system, always providing you with reliable and uninterrupted power. They come in various sizes and capacities, allowing you to choose one that meets your specific needs and budget.

Four types of batteries commonly used in solar power systems include:

1. Lead-acid batteries: These are the most common type of battery used in solar power systems because they are affordable and have a long lifespan. They require maintenance and need to be replaced every five years.

2. Lithium-ion batteries: These batteries have a longer lifespan than lead-acid but come with a higher price tag. They do not require maintenance and can last up to 20 years. Plus, they are considered the best for solar systems due to their efficiency.

3. Flow batteries: Flow batteries store energy in liquid electrolytes that flow through the system as needed, making them highly flexible and efficient. The drawback is that their battery management systems can be complex.

4. Nickel-cadmium: These batteries aren’t used as widely as lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries. They are more popular for commercial-sized projects as they can withstand extreme temperatures.

Discover Your Perfect Solar Battery Match

Finding the right solar battery type is a crucial step toward achieving a reliable and efficient energy system. With multiple options available in the market, it can be tricky to determine which one suits your needs best. However, with some research and expert guidance, you can easily find the perfect match for your solar setup.

First, consider your energy consumption requirements and patterns. If you have high energy demands or experience frequent power outages, a lithium-ion battery might be ideal as it has a higher capacity and longer lifespan than lead-acid batteries. On the other hand, if you have lower energy needs or prefer a more cost-effective option, then lead-acid batteries could work well for you.

Second, assess your location’s climate conditions as they impact how well different batteries perform.

Make the Switch to Solar Now!

If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly and reliable way to power your home, look no further than Solar Bear Orlando. With their cutting-edge solar panel technology, you can count on them to provide a cost-effective and sustainable solution.

Take the leap today and make the switch to solar with Solar Bear Orlando. Give us a call for a quote at (727) 471-7442!

If you’re wisely considering the choice of switching to solar, you’ve likely heard about the 120% Rule. This regulatory guideline set by the NEC (National Electrical Code) is intended to protect both life and property from electric hazards. Solar power systems deliver electric currents to the MSP, or Main Service Panel. Each panel has a specific capacity, rated in amps, and homeowners must ensure any additional current won’t overload their MSP’s capacity, and that’s where the 120% rule comes into play. Here’s what the 120% rule for solar means.

Computing the 120% Rule

Every solar system relies on an MSP to absorb electric current, and at the center of every MSP is a metal busbar that can melt when overloaded, creating a potential fire hazard. When a solar system injects additional current into the MSP, its capacity becomes overstretched. 

The NEC 120% Rule attempts to prevent home solar systems from being overwhelmed by an electric current. It states that photovoltaic solar systems must be installed in electrical boxes that carry up to 120% of the busbar’s label rating. So, if a home has a 175-amp electrical meter rating, there can be an additional 20%–or 35 more amps—coming from the solar system. For example:

175 amps x 120 = 210 amps

210 amps – 175 amps = 35 amps

The system operates within an acceptable limit of 210 amps. The problem lies in the fact that 35 amps isn’t sufficient for most PV solar installations and battery storage, which require an average of 60-80 amps. Most homeowners need to expand the system’s capacity, so the additional solar current can be absorbed safely.

How to Comply With the 120% Rule

If your setup exceeds the 120% Rule, some viable alternatives include:

• Downsizing the MSP. In some cases, it’s smart to contact your electrical service provider to remove your main breaker and replace it with one with less capacity. A new MSP with a lower-rated breaker can seamlessly integrate a solar system without compromising the power load.

• Alternatives to Downsizing. If it isn’t practical to downsize the breaker—like in cases where the electric system capacity is too large—you can either create a line-side connection between the meter and service panel; introduce a solar-ready service panel; or even feed the existing MSP into a sub-panel with a higher busbar rating.

Get the Right Solar Setup for Your Home With the Help of Solar Bear of Tampa

While you need to check all the boxes like capacity, safety, and compliance as you integrate solar energy into your home, the process is easy when you work with the solar experts at Solar Bear of Tampa. We’re here to answer all of your questions and ensure you get the best solar setup for your budget and your needs. It’s never been easier to make the switch to clean, renewable energy that saves you money on your monthly electric bills. Call us today at (727) 471-7442 to get started!

Solar energy is an increasingly popular renewable resource and with good reason! It is a clean, renewable energy source that can be used in many ways. But how is it different from other forms of energy?

This article will explore the differences between solar energy and other sources of power to help you better understand this fascinating form of energy. Solar Bear Orlando is committed to helping people learn more about solar energy so let’s get into it!

Harnessing the Sun’s Energy: What Sets Solar Apart?

Harnessing the sun’s energy has become an increasingly popular way to produce renewable energy. Unlike other sources of power, solar energy is a clean and abundant resource that doesn’t produce harmful emissions or rely on finite resources. As such, it’s no surprise that solar panels have started popping up everywhere from homes to businesses and even in public spaces like parks and parking lots.

One of the greatest things about solar energy is its versatility. Solar panels can be installed virtually anywhere, whether on rooftops, ground-mounted systems, or portable devices like backpacks and chargers. This flexibility makes it easy for people to adopt solar power as a reliable source of electricity in their everyday lives.

Moreover, because the technology behind solar panels has improved significantly over time, they are now more efficient and affordable than ever before – making them accessible to more people around the world than ever thought possible.

Traditional Energy Sources

Traditional sources of energy have been the backbone of our society for centuries. These fossil fuels, such as coal and oil, have powered everything from cars to factories to homes. However, they come with a host of issues such as pollution and limited availability. As we search for more sustainable options, solar energy has emerged as a promising alternative.

Unlike traditional sources like coal or oil, solar energy does not produce harmful emissions or require mining or drilling operations that can damage the environment.

In addition to being environmentally friendly, solar energy is also an abundant resource that shows no signs of running out anytime soon.

Coal & Oil

Coal and oil are two of the most used sources of energy today. These fossil fuels have been instrumental in powering our homes, industries, and vehicles across the globe for more than a century. However, despite their widespread use, there’s a growing realization that they’re not the most sustainable or eco-friendly options available. In fact, there are several problems associated with coal and oil that make them increasingly unattractive.

First, coal and oil are non-renewable resources; once they’re depleted, we can’t produce more. Second, extracting these fuels is harmful to the environment as it involves mining or drilling which causes significant ecological damage.

Finally, burning fossil fuels releases greenhouse gasses such as carbon dioxide which contribute to global warming and climate change issues. Thankfully there’s an alternative solution: solar energy!

Natural Gas

Natural gas has been touted as a clean-burning fuel for many years, but the reality is that it is far from perfect. While it produces fewer emissions than traditional fossil fuels like coal and oil, the extraction and transportation of natural gas can have a significant impact on the environment. The process of hydraulic fracturing or “fracking” can cause water pollution and even earthquakes in some cases.

The good news is that there are alternative energy sources available today, such as solar power, wind power, and other forms of renewable energy. Solar panels have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their efficiency and affordability. They offer a clean source of energy that does not produce harmful emissions or require any finite resources like natural gas.

Investing in renewable energy sources like solar power will not only help reduce our reliance on non-renewable resources but also create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Wind and Hydroelectric Power

Wind power is harnessed using turbines that convert kinetic energy into electrical power. It is an effective way to produce electricity without depleting natural resources or releasing harmful emissions into the atmosphere. With advancements in technology, wind turbines have become more efficient and cost-effective over time.

Hydroelectric power is another option that harnesses the power of water currents to generate electricity. Hydroelectric dams use moving water to turn turbines which then generate electricity on a large scale.

Though they can be a great option to generate renewable energy, wind, and hydroelectric power require more space and infrastructure than solar panels.

The Benefits of Going Solar

We could go on for hours about all the benefits of installing solar, but here are some of our favorite reasons:

• As stated above, solar power is renewable and sustainable. Unlike nonrenewable sources like coal and oil, the sun will continue to shine for billions of years to come. By harnessing this energy source, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels that harm the environment.

• Going solar can save you a lot of money over time. While there may be some upfront costs associated with installing solar panels, over time you’ll see significant savings on your electricity bills. In fact, many people who switch to solar report saving thousands of dollars over the lifetime of their system.

• Lastly, using solar power can increase your property value, which is always a good thing if you plan to sell in the future!

Central Florida Solar Installations

Ready to harness the power of the sun at your Central Florida home or business? Great idea! Florida is called the Sunshine State for a reason!

Call on our team at Solar Bear Orlando for a comprehensive installation quote today at (727) 471-7442!

Installing solar power in Florida is becoming an increasingly popular choice for those looking to reduce their environmental footprint and their energy bills. But before embarking on the exciting project of a solar installation, it is important to understand an often-overlooked part of the solar installation—the site survey.

A site survey will provide insight into the best placement for the system, optimize performance, and ultimately make sure that you are getting the most out of your solar setup.

Our team at Solar Bear Orlando outlines everything you need to know about a solar site survey.

What is a Solar Site Survey?

A solar site survey is a crucial step in the process of installing a solar system and involves analyzing the location where the panels will be installed. The site survey includes evaluations of the:

• Roofing
• Electrical
• Shading
• Structural needs

It also lays out the most efficient setup for the system and detects any potential issues that might come up during the installation process.

What Information is Gathered from a Site Survey?

The information that is collected during a typical site survey for solar installation is why you will use it to take your design and turn it into a permit-ready plan.

Generally, solar contractors will need to know:

• Roof measurements and data including the pitch
• Solar exposure through shading analysis
• Visual inspection of roof conditions
• Electrical system information to determine interconnection methods
• Structural information such as rafter size and spacing

All these things will have a big impact on your solar system’s installation and future output.

Solar Survey Steps

Let’s briefly go over the most important steps in a solar site survey so you are aware of what the process entails and what to look out for.

#1. Gathering Information

First, all pertinent information about the property will need to be gathered. This includes basic things like the street address along with permitting details.

#2. Aerial and Satellite Imagery

A satellite or aerial image of your property will be pulled to make preliminary assessments and determine any limitations for your solar project.

An aerial view also allows your solar installer to determine roof access points.

#3. Roof Assessment

The next thing in the solar site survey is an assessment of the condition of your roof, including how many layers of shingles there are. This is crucial because your home’s roof needs to be in good enough shape to support the weight of the solar installation.

Plus, it also needs to last for the average lifespan of the solar system—25 to 30 years—or you will have to uninstall the panels to have a new roof installed.

A general rule is that asphalt shingle roofs should be 10 years old and in great condition before installing solar panels.

#4. Measuring the Roof

Once the condition of your roof has been evaluated, the next step is measuring the roof’s surface to determine where solar can be installed.

The roof area and pitch, as well as any obstructions like skylights and chimneys, will be noted as well.

#5. Shade Analysis

The next step is a shade analysis. All nearby trees or buildings that are taller than the roof will be noted, and a shade analysis tool will be used to collect data from every facet of the roof; one at each corner and one in the middle.

#6. Electrical System Assessment

Your home’s electrical system also needs to be assessed during a solar site survey. This determines how the solar system will be interconnected to your electrical system and can help your installer decide on what equipment is needed for the installation or any required upgrades.

This electrical assessment includes:

• Photo of the electric meter including the utility meter number
• Main disconnect location
• Electrical panel location and sub-panels
• Electrical panel circuit breakers
• Location of the transfer switch if you have one
• Proposed inverter and battery location
• Possible locations to run conduit
• General locations for proposed electrical equipment

#7. Structural Analysis

The final step is the gathering of the information needed for the structural analysis. This helps identify if the existing structure can bear the load of the solar installation.

The surveyor will note the type of structure and whether the roof uses rafters or a truss for framing. They will also note the spacing and span between each roof facet that will be used for the solar panels.

Read More > Will My Homeowners Insurance Go Up if I Install Solar?

Rise and Shine in Central Florida with Solar

Solar power is a great way to save money and energy in Central Florida. With Solar Bear Orlando, you will have an experienced team of professionals to help you make the switch.

Ready to get started? Contact our friendly team at Solar Bear Orlando for a comprehensive solar survey and consultation today; (727) 471-7442!