In general, we recommend looking for solar modules that provide high efficiency and long life. Here are the most important things to consider before making your final solar system purchase.
Types of solar cells
You can classify solar panels based on the semiconductor materials used in their photovoltaic cells. Three main types.
- Monocrystalline. most efficient solar cells but very expensive
- Polycurist. Provides moderate efficiency at a lower cost than monocrystalline cells.
- Thin film. cost-effective, lightweight and flexible panels that offer flexibility.
Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels are recommended for rooftop solar systems because they produce more electricity per square meter. Thin film panels are best suited for recreational vehicles and other applications that require lightweight construction.
Energy conversion efficiency
The most efficient solar panels can convert more than 20% of the sun's energy into electricity. SunPower and Canadian Solar have the highest efficiency standards in the industry, offering PV modules with up to 22.8% efficiency.
Since solar panels produce direct current (DC), you will need an inverter to convert the energy into alternating current (AC). Most installers connect the panels to a conventional inverter in a daisy-chain arrangement, while others use microinverters on all panels. You also need to make sure that the inverter has high efficiency for DC conversion.
Warranty for solar panels
Ideally, residential solar systems offer a payback period of less than six years and a service life of about three decades. The best solar panels come with a 25-year warranty, ensuring your device will perform well for decades to come. Many reputable installers offer warranties on panel performance and system installation.
You can buy solar panels from local stores or online stores. However, we recommend working with a qualified solar installer to design and purchase your solar panel system. Professional installation will ensure you have enough panels to meet your home's energy needs.
Solar battery charger
The easiest way to use solar power is to buy it fully charged. The solar company sells photovoltaic modules and other system parts through an auction that includes installation and licensing. In addition to equipment warranties, many solar energy companies also offer solar inverter and battery performance warranties that cover installation.
Local retail and online stores
You can also buy solar panels directly from local retailers and online stores. However, since you are only buying solar systems, you will need to find a professional installer to install the panels.
If you're looking for a solar power kit that's specifically designed for DIY projects, buying outright is a good option. However, if you need a rooftop solar system, we recommend contacting a professional installer. Attempting to install solar panels yourself can be very dangerous and may void your solar panel or roof warranty.
Not all solar panel manufacturers and installers offer the same quality equipment and warranty coverage. We recommend that you do your research before choosing a solar panel brand and installer. You can evaluate solar companies based on the quality of equipment they offer, services available, warranties, and online customer reviews, and keep an eye out for solar industry scams.
Choosing high-quality solar panels installed by professionals can save you thousands of dollars on your energy bill over the life of your system.
According to our research, the average cost of a home solar system is $2.85 per watt. Without incentives like the 30 percent federal tax credit, you can expect to pay $14,250 for a 5-kilowatt solar power system or $28,500 for a 10-kW system.
There are basically four ways to pay for a solar energy system.
- Purchases with cash. paying cash for solar panels provides the biggest savings in the long run, but you'll need to cover the total cost of the system up front.
- Solar loan. A solar loan allows you to purchase solar panels with money borrowed from a bank that includes a down payment and interest. However, some solar loans include $0 down payments and low interest rates.
- Solar rental. With a lease, your solar provider retains ownership of the panels for the monthly payment you pay to use them. The supplier is responsible for maintenance, but running costs can eat up a significant portion of your energy savings.
- Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Like a lease agreement, a PPA charges you based on the amount of electricity the system produces, rather than a monthly fee. With PPA, there is no system and the long-term savings are small compared to buying with cash or credit.
As a solar panel owner, you can take advantage of incentives such as the federal solar tax credit, which provides a tax credit of 30% of the total cost of your solar system. You can take advantage of this incentive when buying solar panels with cash or credit, but not through lease agreements such as a lease or PPA.
While you can purchase portable solar panels at local retail stores or online retailers, we recommend working with a professional solar company to purchase and install residential solar panels. Installers can help you choose the best panels to suit your home's energy needs and ensure your system will last for decades.
If you try to buy and install solar panels yourself, you may encounter a number of obstacles.
- Deciding how many solar panels you need to meet your home's energy needs can be more difficult.
- Your local utility does not allow you to connect the panels to a network or participate in network metering programs.
- Solar panel manufacturers can void warranties, and you can void your roof's warranty if you attempt to install a solar system yourself.
- Your local municipality may refuse your building permit.
There are many factors to consider when purchasing solar panels, including quality and efficiency, price, and brand. We recommend getting a quote from a reputable solar installer to determine which solar panels are right for your home.
