home made solar panels
 

Instead of a glass front cover can thin stiff plastic be substituted?

Lexan can be used but would have to be think enough so it would not sag.
Never use cheap plexaglass, it yellows, is effected by UV and will craze.

http://www.builditsolar.com/Projects.../sunspaces.htm

And, welcome to the forums!

Gary

Excellent post, I have made all the panels that I use on my boat and a solar water heater. I have also made a water maker that works off of solar, it will produce about 8 to 10 gallons of water a day, just enough to keep the tanks full. I have also made a solar oven and dehydrator for food.

Twin walled polycarbonate works well, does not yellow and provides an insulation factor. Imagine a piece of corrugated (cardboard) but clear. I've used it for 15+ years and absolutely no yellowing.:yes:

What does a good piece of twin polycarbonate run in price?

Obviously it depends on the size. Check with Polytex, they are a greenhouse manufacturer.

Solar oven. Very interesting. How did you do that?

ok, Guys,

How well are your solar panels working and how much of a savings have you realized after recovering cost of project?