Emergency Solar Power Systems

People have come to expect reliable power from the electrical grid, but when a blackout occurs, it's costly and inconvenient to our modern lifestyles. Normally, electricity is not critical to life but a power outage in winter can become hazardous to you, your family and your household. Emergency solar power offers protection from these disruptions by providing a reliable backup power source that can last as long as the sun keeps shining.

The Basics

In an emergency, solar powered flashlights, radios and battery rechargers provide convenient and portable assistance around the house. These units provide light and communication opportunities that are crucial for keeping in touch with the outside world. If an unexpected blackout lasts for more than one day, sunlight can replenish the batteries and keep these indispensible tools running. As a part of your emergency kit, ensure to include a solar power battery recharger and plenty of NiCD rechargeable batteries. These handy units can charge AA, AAA, C and D cells that can be used in a wide variety of electronic devices. With the proper adapter, it can even recharge cell phone batteries.

Peace of Mind

For larger residential loads, solar power backup can be used to power an entire household. This system is useful in an emergency situation but also provides a level of security as a supplementary power system for everyday use. Under normal conditions, it can offset the power from the utility company and help reduce your energy costs.

Ensure that the capacity of the backup solar power system provides enough energy to meet your needs. In an emergency situation, lowering your energy consumption will help make your reserve power last longer. Also, during sunlight hours, limit your use of electricity in order for most of the solar energy to go into charging the batteries.

Deep cycle batteries are used in solar power installations. They can handle the numerous discharge and recharge cycles and provide more stable voltage and current. They can be placed outside but should be protected from severe cold as the chemical electrolytes do not hold as much charge at lower temperatures. Also provide adequate ventilation as small amounts of hydrogen gas is emitted during the recharge cycle.

One of the largest, but necessary, energy-consuming appliances is the stove and range. Those who live in more remote areas that may see more frequent power outages might consider getting a small, energy-efficient burner or cooktop. If that's not available and you can't use a flame grill or barbeque to safely prepare meals, select an inverter that can convert DC energy into 220/240 V AC with the appropriate current rating. Its usage should be limited to preserve the stored energy in the batteries.

Emergency situations happen unexpectedly and being prepared is critical for your families comfort and survival. Emergency solar power backup provides heat and light for a safe, indoor environment and is one way to create a more energy-independent home.