A Simple Weekend Project -- Your Very Own Solar Fountain
By: Jason Calvert
Submitted: 2010-08-26 21:58:46 | Word Count: 436
An easy way to become familiar with solar technology is to start with a simple weekend project, like building a solar fountain. Solar fountains are undemanding enough that you can build it by yourself or with the kids. Let's cover the basics of what's involved.
The first step is to choose your design. Ask yourself if you want to add tiers, or a waterfall, or maybe a bubbling stream with a geyser. As you work on your design look through some pictures online to select the style, size, and shape of your fountain. Make sure you know if this is going to be a permanent installation or if you want to make it portable.
The next step is to select the appropriate pump. Based on the size and shape of your solar fountain the pump must be able to push the appropriate gallons per minute and lift the water to the higher tiers. A tall large waterfall fountain will require a more powerful pump than a smaller and lower babbling brook design. Choose a model that is designed to be immersed completely in water and runs on direct (DC) current.
The amount of sunlight your fountain receives and the energy requirements of your pump will determine the size of the solar panel. If your solar fountain will be located in a shaded area or if you need to pump a large volume of water then you need a larger panel. Of course you can use a smaller panel if you want to slow down the pump, or if your fountain gets lots of direct sunlight every day.
[ advertisement ]
Before you connect the pump and solar panel, or install your fountain permanently, assemble the components (if it has several tiers or basins) and hook up the plumbing. Test it for flow and leaks. Pour enough water through it, using a bucket or hose, to make sure that it works as intended.
Now that you have a successful test, hook up the pump and the solar panel. Depending on how you position your solar panel you will find that your fountain may speed up or slow down. Now that you you've tested the system your ready for your final installation. When your done grab a chair and beverage and enjoy your hard work.
Author Resource:-
J. Calvert is a computer science teacher and solar energy enthusiast. You can make solar panels to power up just about anything. How cool is that? Visit his site Go Earth Energy to learn more about this exciting subject and get started building your own solar energy systems.
An easy way to become familiar with solar technology is to start with a simple weekend project, like building a solar fountain. Solar fountains are undemanding enough that you can build it by yourself or with the kids. Let's cover the basics of what's involved.