Solar panels are available in a wide range of capacities, qualities, prices and features. The ideal solar panels for your home and your needs may be very different from the requirements of your neighbors. When deciding which one is best for your needs, keep the following criteria in mind:
cost of solar panel
The average cost of a home solar system is about $16,000 , ranging from $ 3,500 to $35,000 , including installation and panels and excluding tax credits. While quality plays a role in the cost of solar panels, the features and capabilities of the individual system components are also important. Look for solar panels that offer the best return on investment, including the ability to significantly reduce energy costs while staying within your budget.
Panel efficiency
The efficiency rating is expressed as a percentage, reflecting the performance of individual solar cells. The current average efficiency rate for residential panels is around 18%. High-efficiency solar panels are more than 22% efficient, while budget products are around 16%.
Not all homes require the highest level of efficiency. Your budget, energy needs and available space will help you determine an acceptable efficiency range. Remember that the efficiency of a solar panel decreases slightly over time when you buy it.
panel power
To be profitable, solar panels must produce as much energy as they replace. While efficiency ratings reflect how well a panel puts out energy, its wattage measures the power output. Most modern solar panel systems produce between 250 and 400 watt-hours of electricity. As a general rule, higher wattage panels are better than lower wattage panels. However, your needs and budget are the determining factors for the capacity of each panel.
temperature coefficient
The rating factor of a panel measures the loss of efficiency as the temperature increases and is expressed as a negative percentage. A lower temperature coefficient rating indicates that the solar panel performs better in hot climates than a panel with a higher temperature coefficient. While panels with low factor ratings can make a difference in hot weather locations, they can have significant results in areas of extreme temperature variation.
Your home's energy needs
Depending on your household's energy consumption, you may need a home solar system that produces more or less electricity. Make sure your system produces enough electricity during the day and, if desired, has enough power to keep you going through the night. Some solar users choose systems that are large enough to produce enough power to meet some of their needs, while others choose systems that allow them to live off the grid or even sell them to the local supplier. of electricity.
Check solar panel warranties
The standard warranty for solar panels is 25 years. System components such as batteries, inverters and other critical parts are often covered by warranties that vary widely by product and manufacturer. Pay attention to these warranties and the panel warranty after 10-25 years, especially if you plan to live in the same house for a long time. Be aware of performance and manufacturer warranties.
Availability of the installation company
Make sure the installer you choose is not only available where you live, but also provides the panels and system components you need, or the equivalent. Check reviews, recommendations and quotes when choosing a company that can meet your solar energy needs. In addition to manufacturer warranties, look for installer warranties.
Available roof
The amount of your roof or garden space that faces the optimal direction is an important factor that can limit your panel options. Small spaces benefit from fewer panels for higher power and efficiency, while homeowners with larger spaces available can have more panels and energy options.
Check out solar panel reviews
Not long ago, there were few customers who used solar power to get their experience. As solar power has grown in popularity and consumers have had several years to evaluate their systems, things have changed. Online reviews of solar panel brands, models, installers, systems, storage systems, and other components are readily available, so you can be sure you're making the best possible investment.
Solar installation recommendations
Solar power systems and solar panel systems are constantly evolving and improving. When making a purchase decision, ask those who have experience with the system you're considering what they've learned. Also, be open to suggestions from solar companies about your energy needs. In an ever-changing industry, there is always new information that can be useful.
