| How to Choose Solar Panels Posted: 05 Jul 2018 05:00 PM PDT Solar panels provide renewable energy for your home, which helps the environment and reduce your electricity bill. But not all panels are alike. The material a panel is made of, what solar inverter it uses, and how it mounts to your roof determines what environments it works best in. Before you buy solar panels for your home, research the different factors and decide which option is right for you. EditPicking a Panel Material - Choose monocrystalline solar panels for efficiency. Monocrystalline solar panels are the best at converting light to energy because of their high silicon purity. That being said, monocrystalline solar panels are often the most expensive—this option is best if you want the highest productivity and price tag.[1]
- Monocrystalline solar panels cost between $300-700 USD per panel.
- Monocrystalline solar panels also produce the most waste when they're manufactured. If you're buying solar panels to go green, another material may suit your needs better.
- All solar panels are made of silicon. The higher the silicon purity, the better your panel will work, which is why monocrystalline panels are ideal.
- Go with polycrystalline solar panels for an environmentally-friendly option. Polycrystalline solar panels utilize all of the silicon material they're manufactured with, making them the "greenest" panel option. Polycrystalline solar panels are also cheaper than monocrystalline panels, though they are not quite as efficient.[2]
- Polycrystalline solar panels usually cost between $200-500 USD per panel.
- Polycrystalline solar panels do not do as well in warm temperatures. Hot climates with temperatures regularly above around are not suitable for polycrystalline panels.
- Buy thin-film solar panels for the most budget-friendly option. Thin-film panels are cost-efficient to make and are usually the cheapest option. They also, however, degrade faster than other panels. Choose thin-film if you need a simple solar panel that may need more repairs over the years.[3]
- Polycrystalline solar panels usually cost between $175-300 USD per panel.
- Thin-film panels usually need the most space and are less practical for smaller homes. They may need up to twice as much room as a mono- or polycrystalline solar panel with the same energy output.
- Buy amorphous solar panels for smaller homes. Amorphous solar panels are a subset of thin-film solar panels. Generally, they are smaller than other thin-film panels. Through a process called "stacking," which involves multiple layers of amorphous silicon cells, these panels can reach high levels of efficiency, around twice as high as other thin-film solar panels.[4]
- Amorphous solar panels are more expensive than other thin-film panels.
- Amorphous solar panels generally cost between $200-400 USD per panel.
EditSelecting a Solar Inverter - Choose central inverters for their track record. Central inverters are the oldest and most common solar inverter type. These inverters are also usually the most reliable option, as they function well in harsh climates and have been researched the most by environmental scientists.[5]
- Central inverters can cost between $1500-2400 USD.
- Pick string inverters for the least expensive option. String inverters are a newer form of central inverters that connect a group of small panels together so they function as one. They are also usually cheaper than central inverters and the most budget-friendly inverter choice.[6]
- String inverters may cost between $1400-2000 USD
- String inverters work best on houses with a flat roof.
- Compared to power optimizers and microinverters, string inverters are an older technology.
- Buy power optimizers if you want to use your panel in partial shade. This type of solar inverter is embedded into the solar cell, which helps them work in shady locations. Choose power optimizers if your home receives 6-8 hours of direct sunlight with periods of partial shade in-between.
- Power optimizers may cost $2000+ USD, depending on the strength of the device.
- Like all solar panels, power optimizers will not work in perpetually cloudy environments.
- Choose microinverters for long-term use. Microinverters generally last longer than other solar panel types. Unlike other inverters, which stop working if a single panel fails, microinverters keep working with a broken panel. Because of their long lifespan, however, microinverters are also the most expensive option.[7]
- Microinverters can cost up to $2300-2500 USD.
- Microinverters are often easiest to install.
EditDeciding on a Mounting Option - Pick a ballasted mount if you live in an area with low wind. Solar panels on a ballasted mount are attached to the roof at an angle several feet or meters above the roof. Ballasted mounts are efficient because they do not penetrate the roof and receive more direct sunlight. Because this design makes them more vulnerable to being blown away, however, they do not work well in windy climates. [8]
- On the whole, ballasted systems tend to be the cheapest mounting option. They can cost between $50-100 USD per panel.
- Ballasted systems generally cover the whole roof, which can make maintenance or remodeling hard.
- Buy a mechanically-attached mount for the most secure option. Solar panels on a mechanically-attached mount are attached tightly to the roof at a slight or no angle. Because mechanically-attached mounts are mounted to the roof beams, they fare well in harsh weather. They also take up less space and are ideal if you need access to your roof often.[9]
- Because mechanically-attached mounts are smaller, they're usually easier on the roof.
- Mechanically-attached mounts may cost between $75-125 per panel.
- Pick a hybrid for the benefits of ballasted and mechanically-attached mounts. Hybrid mounts are attached to the roof like mechanically-attached mounts but may be slightly raised or angled like ballasted mounts. This keeps them secure to the roof while receiving more direct sunlight like ballasted mounts.
- Choose a fixed mount if you cannot place your panels on the roof. Fixed mounts follow the sun throughout the day. This orients their panel positioning to absorb as much sunlight as possible. If your solar panel is on the ground and receives some shade each day, fixed mounts can help your system convert more energy.
- Fixed mounts can cost between $160-200 per panel.
EditConsidering Additional Factors - Choose a solar panel based on the type of building you're using it in. Depending on whether you're using the solar panels in a residential, commercial, or industrial building, some solar panels may fit your needs better than others. Let the company you're purchasing solar panels from know what kind of building your using solar panels in so they can help you find the right option.[10]
- If you're buying solar panels for an industrial building, for example, you may want monocrystalline panels for their efficiency at converting energy.
- Determine your electrical usage needs before purchasing solar panels. If your building expends a lot of energy, an expensive solar panel that generates more energy may help you save more in the long-term. Consult your past 2 or 3 energy bills to decide whether the solar panel's price or efficiency is a better investment.[11]
- If your electricity bill is high every month and you plan to live in your house for a long time, for example, you may choose a monocrystalline solar panel. If you do not use as much electricity, however, a thin-film solar panel may fit your needs.
- Set a budget before shopping around for solar panels. Between the panel material, solar inverter type, and other factors, the cost of a solar panel can add up over time—if you're not careful, you may end up overspending. Decide how much you're willing to spend beforehand so you don't put too much money into your panels without realizing it.
- Shop around at several different solar panel companies to compare deals before purchasing a system.
- Check to see if you qualify for government rebates for buying solar panels. Some countries offer government-issued tax rebates for solar panel installation. If your country offers this program, you may be able to reduce the net cost of your solar panel. Consult a financial advisor to discover solar panel tax rebates in your country.[12]
- Depending on your country, you may receive between 30-50% off of your net cost in rebates.
- If you're not sure what system is best for your climate, ask for recommendations. Call a friend nearby who has solar panels or contact a solar panel installation company.
- Build your own solar panel to combine the features you like best.
- Get pricing quotes from several different solar panel companies before buying solar panels.
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| How to Treat an Ocular Migraine Posted: 05 Jul 2018 09:00 AM PDT Ocular or "classic" migraines are severe headaches accompanied by changes in vision (seeing flashes of light or shadows, or an "aura"). Mild cases can be treated with pain relievers and rest. Stronger or more frequent ocular migraines can be treated with prescription medications and other professional treatments, as well as by making some lifestyle changes. Ocular migraines should not be confused with "retinal" migraines, which cause symptoms of short-term blindness or reduced vision in only one eye. Retinal migraines are the sign of a serious medical issue--if you have one, you should seek medical assistance immediately.[1] EditGetting Immediate Migraine Relief - Recognize the onset of the aura phase. Ocular migraines are characterized by visual problems, known as the "aura." You may have trouble seeing, experience zig-zag lights that aren't really there, "see stars," or have other visual effects. These may or may not be accompanied by pain. Part of treatment is learning to recognize the particular symptoms that accompany your ocular migraines.[2]
- The aura phase usually takes place in the 10-60 minute window before the ocular migraine begins.[3]
- Take your preventative migraine medication, if you have it. Your doctor may have prescribed you a medication (usually a triptan or ergot derivative) to take whenever you start to have a migraine. If so, take this as soon as you experience the onset of the aura. Doing so may stop the headache, nausea, or other symptoms that may follow the aura phase.[4]
- These prescriptions are available in a variety of forms: pills, dissolving tablets, sprays, or shots.
- Make sure to follow your doctor's dosing instructions.
- You should not use these medications if you are pregnant or have certain types of heart disease or uncontrolled high blood pressure. Discuss your medical history with your doctor before using migraine medication.
- Rest and get away from your triggers. Even if you aren't experiencing pain or headache, find a quiet, dark place where you can close your eyes and rest as soon as you begin to experience ocular symptoms. If you know you have specific migraine triggers (such as specific sounds, smells, or staring at a screen too long), resting away from these will also help treat the migraine.[5]
- Even if you can't lie down, try moving away from bright sunlight or harsh lighting as well as noisy situations.
- Use an over-the counter (OTC) pain reliever if needed. Mild migraine pain can be stopped or at least reduced with a standard dose of aspirin, acetaminophen, or a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID), such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium. Follow the package instructions and do not take more than the maximum recommended dose.[6]
- You can also take specially formulated OTC migraine pain relievers, which may combine several medications (typically aspirin, acetaminophen, and caffeine).
- If you are taking any other medications, talk to a medical professional about which OTC medications are safe and effective for you to use.
- Place a cold compress on your head for additional pain relief. Soak a clean cloth in cool water. Wring out the excess, then lay the cloth on your forehead or behind your neck. Leave it there for as long as the cloth stays cool to get some instant relief.[7]
- Using a cold compress while lying down in a quiet, dark place can be especially effective.
- Massage your scalp. Spread out your fingers and rub them all over your scalp and temples. Push down with lots of pressure. This can be a surprisingly effective way to relieve mild migraines.[8]
EditPreventing Migraines with Professional Treatments - Ask your doctor about prevention drugs. If you have frequent migraines that don't go away with easy treatments, your doctor can prescribe medications to help prevent migraines. If your migraines are severe (causing you to miss work or school, for instance), or if you take pain relievers for migraines more than 2 times a week, you might be a good candidate for these drugs. Commonly prescribed ones include:[9]
- Certain antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants
- Beta blockers
- Calcium channel blockers
- Undergo hormone therapy, if your migraines relate to hormonal changes. Some women find that their migraines seem to be linked to their menstrual cycle. Others will experience worsened migraines during menopause. If this is the case for you, talk to your doctor. They may advise a program of hormone replacement therapy to prevent migraines.[10]
- Keep track of your symptoms using a symptoms tracker app or a diary to help you determine a pattern. This will help you decide if hormone therapy could work for you.
- Work with a therapist if your migraines seem linked to mental health. Stress, anxiety, and depression are all sometimes linked to migraines. Managing these issues can eliminate the migraine problem. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) and "talk therapy" can both be effective at treating migraines.[11]
- Ask your doctor to refer you to a therapist, if you aren't sure who to see.
- You can also try neurofeedback.[12]
EditMaking Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Migraines - Avoid your migraine triggers. Researchers still don't know exactly what causes migraines, but they seem to be linked to environmental factors. Triggers include things like bright lights, loud sounds, strong fumes, irregular sleeping and eating patterns, and certain foods. If you know what sorts of things tend to cause you to have a migraine, you can avoid or manage the triggers. For instance:[13]
- If bright lights trigger your migraines, reduce the amount of time you spend in full sunlight, in fully lit rooms, or looking at screens on computers, smartphones, and tablets. You can also buy different colored lens that will block certain wavelengths that cause issues for you.[14]
- If you tend to have migraines when you are tired, get on a regular sleep schedule so you go to bed and wake up at the same time everyday.
- Stop behaviors that can worsen migraines. Certain activities and habits can make migraines more likely, frequent, or severe. Eliminating these from your life can help stop your migraine problems.[15]
- Limit your consumption of alcohol and caffeine. While some patients benefit from minimal caffeine consumption, partaking more than 3 times per week can increase migraines.
- Stop smoking.
- Stop using oral contraceptives.
- Don't skip meals.
- Manage stress. Many people who have migraines find that they seem to be caused by stress or worsened because of it. Learning to deal with stress and anxiety will not only help reduce your migraine problem, it can also improve your overall quality of life. Ways to manage stress include:[16]
- Try alternative treatments such as acupuncture and massage. Acupuncture can help lower pain, while massage may lower the frequency of migraines. Everyone responds differently to treatment, so do what works for you.[17]
- Try supplements if your doctor approves. Some vitamins and minerals can help prevent migraines. Vitamin B-2 (riboflavin), Coenzyme Q10, and magnesium are all great options.[18] Always talk to your doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements.
- Your doctor can help you determine a proper dosage to meet your needs.
- Keep medications (OTC or prescription) that can stop a migraine with you at all times, in case you have an attack.[19]
- Migraine triggers include: anxiety, stress, lack of food or sleep, certain infections (like those that cause colds and the flu), loud sounds, bright lights, strong smells, stress, dehydration or hunger, dieting, and certain foods.[20]
- Try applying a cool compress to your forehead, which can feel relaxing.
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| How to Dispose of Fireworks Posted: 05 Jul 2018 01:00 AM PDT Spent fireworks and "duds" remain hot after use. If you don't handle them carefully, they can spark fires and cause serious injury. Always keep water on hand, and be prepared to extinguish any fires that start. Soak fireworks in water after use. Then, wrap them in plastic and bring them to a local solid waste center. Be smart and be safe! EditSoaking Fireworks - Prepare a water source. Before you light any fireworks, make sure that you have a water source on hand. Fill a couple of buckets with water to dunk used fireworks and put out fires. Keep a hose or a fire extinguisher nearby. In a pinch, you can pour a bucket of soil or sand over a fire to extinguish the blaze – but water will be most effective.
- Dunk fireworks in water after use. Submerge them in a large bucket of water until they are thoroughly cooled and all of the embers have been extinguished. Soak for at least fifteen minutes, and soak overnight if possible. This applies to all spent fireworks, "dud" fireworks, and sparklers.
- For extra safety, soak the fireworks from a distance. Pour water from a bucket, or spray the explosives using a garden hose.
- It's important to soak even the fireworks that don't go off. Sometimes, "duds" explode late, causing fire or injury. Never try to relight a "dud" – wait 20 minutes after the failed detonation, and then soak the explosive in water.
- Remove the fuse from live fireworks. If you are trying to dispose of fireworks that have not yet been lit, make sure to pull off the wicks so that the explosives won't detonate.
- Do not soak fireworks in or near a natural body of water. The compounds that are used to make the colorful explosions contain metals that can pollute the air, water, and surrounding ecosystem. Furthermore: if you set off fireworks near the surface of a body of water, the concussion can kill fish and other local wildlife. If your fireworks do explode above a body of water, make sure to promptly remove any visible debris from he explosive shell.[1]
EditDisposing of Fireworks - Pick up all debris. After your firework show, comb the area for any pieces that may have scattered in the explosion. Watch the fireworks as they fall to the ground, and mark their locations so that you don't miss anything. If you leave a piece of burning material on the ground, you might start a fire! Furthermore, fireworks often contain metals and other materials that can pollute an ecosystem and contaminate the water table.[2] Do your part to minimize your impact.
- Wrap the soaked fireworks. Use trash bags, Ziploc, or plastic wrap so that the wet explosives don't dry out.[3] Consider double-wrapping the bags. It's okay to put multiple fireworks in the same bag, as long as it is sealed.
- Place fireworks in regular household trash. Fireworks cannot be recycled or composted.[4] If possible, bring the fireworks to your local solid waste center. Make sure to tell the workers at the waste center that you are disposing of fireworks – and whether they are live, spent, or duds.
- If you don't feel comfortable placing fireworks in the garbage, contact your local fire department. Some police and fire authorities will take fireworks and ensure proper disposal. This applies especially to live fireworks.
- Wear gloves to protect your hands. If you'll be lighting the fireworks yourself, consider wearing safety goggles to protect your eyes.[5]
- Point fireworks away from you and others in case they discharge.
- Do not let children handle fireworks.
- Use fireworks sensibly.
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