It's important to know what you want the solar panels for because there are two basic types of solar panels and they are not interchangeable.
One kind generates heat and the other creates electricity.
One thing is for sure, which ever solar panel you choose you are sure to save money and help the environment.
Both types are typically glass encased and both require direct contact with sunlight.
The most ideal location for these panels is facing south to offer them maximum exposure to sunlight throughout the day.
They can be sued anywhere around the world but are more effective and productive in areas that normally have a sunny climate.
Solar panels that generate heat are called solar thermal collectors.
These panels absorb the sun's energy to heat fluids such as water.
The liquid flows through the panel's coils and is heated by the sun.
These kinds of panels are normally used to heat water for homes and can even be used to heat building interiors.
These panels usually use plastic tubing, hoses or coils in the panel and usually require a motorized pump to circulate the fluids.
Solar panels that create electricity are called solar photovoltaic cells , which create direct current (DC) electricity.
A semi-conductor material, like silicon, is put into the panel.
This material then makes contact with the sunlight to generate electricity, which means that it can only create electricity during the day.
The electricity can be used for various things, like electrical appliances, computers and even the whole house if the system is large enough.
Although these panels need direct contact with sunlight, the electricity can be used at night or on rainy days by storing it in a battery storage system.
There are the inexpensive lead-acid batteries, like the ones used in cars.
Make sure to fill the battery with distilled water to maintain the charge.
The more expensive batteries are the sealed AGM (absorbent glass mat) batteries.
These batteries hold their charge with no maintenance required.
If you live somewhere with a normally cold climate then gel batteries are a good idea since they are freeze resistant.
No matter which kind of solar panel you have or where you live, it's always a good idea to have a backup generator.
Backup generators can act as a backup if your battery storage breaks down or when there are a series of cloudy days.
If you want to be even more environmentally friendly you can also use bio-diesel fuel to fill your generator.