The Solar Powered Upgrade replaces the 115v electric AC fans on the 42′ dome with three solar powered DC fans. This upgrade will reduce your carbon footprint by reducing electricity usage and will make you more self-sufficient. This is also a great option for people who do not have access to grid-tied electricity at the site of their Growing Dome. The standard 42′ Growing Dome kit has three electric intake and three electric attic fans. When you choose the solar-powered upgrade, you receive four solar-powered intake fans and three solar-powered attic fans.
The standard 33′ Growing Dome kit has two electric intake and two electric attic fans. When you choose the solar-powered upgrade, you receive three solar-powered intake fans and two solar-powered attic fans.
Solar Fan Upgrade Considerations
The 115v fans only use about 173 watts of energy each, and they are controlled by a thermostat. The solar powered fans may also be regulated by a thermostat, but they only run when the sun is out. A single solar fan provides about 2/3 of the air flow of a single 115v fan (1925 CFM as apposed to 2300 CFM). The Solar Powered Upgrade contains additional fans to compensate for the loss of air flow that the standard 115v fan(s) would provide.
If you live in an extremely hot environment, you may need more than the solar fans that we have to offer to sufficiently cool your Growing Dome. We recommend a misting system, for those in hot, dry climates. Solar swamp coolers manufactured by Southwest Solar are also a great option for hot, dry climates. If you live in a humid climate, you may need to contact a local HVAC heating and air conditioning supplier and/or electrician to assist you with purchasing an air conditioner and/or dehumidifier.