Choosing the right number of solar panels for your home is a process that involves considering several different factors. Solar panels are not all equal. It is important to choose solar panels based on the amount of power they can produce. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
Solar panels absorb photons from the sun’s rays. When the sun strikes the panel, energy from the light is absorbed by the photovoltaic (PV) cells that are on the solar panels. That stored energy then creates electrical charges that move around in response to the internal electrical field within each of the cells. When this happens, electricity flows.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
There are differences between products. However, some solar panel systems can last for 20 to 25 years, sometimes longer. They are designed to be able to withstand the elements and are durable enough for many climates. Many times, solar panels come with a warranty that protects them for a set number of years. In some situations, panels last 50 to 80% longer than the warranty.
How Many Solar Panels Do You Need?
To determine how many solar panels are needed for the average home, the first step is to determine how much power you need. Solar panels can power everything in your home that relies on electricity.
The easiest way to determine this is to look at your current electrical bill. Most often, this will list the number of kilowatt hours (KWH) that your home uses each month. The size of your home, the location, and how energy efficient your home all plays a role in determining how much power you need. Look at the average daily energy usage from your bill. That will help you to determine how many solar panels you need.
What Are Peak Sunlight Hours?
One factor that plays a role in the number of panels you need is the amount of peak sunlight hours you need. Solar panels only generate electricity when they have direct sunlight. When the sun sets, they are not able to produce energy. Peak sunlight hours is the term used to describe the number of hours when your panels are in that direct sunlight path. Peak sunlight hours depend on where you live. Some areas, such as in the south, have many more hours of sunlight than those in the north.
To determine your needs, multiply the hourly energy usage you need by the number of peak sunlight hours the home gets. Then, divide that number by the wattage of the panel that you are planning to purchase. This helps you to determine how much power you need. During the installation process, you’ll learn more about how much power your panels can generate.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
Costs range widely, though prices have fallen significantly in the last few years. They are more accessible than ever. Most of the time, a panel will cost between 50 and 70 cents per watt. For example, if you purchased a 350-watt solar panel, that could cost about $175. Let’s say that your home has 1500 square feet. The total cost, with installation, could be around $18,000. Costs range widely, and there are numerous incentives available that could make this much less. Let us help you with more pricing information.
Are you interested in learning more about solar panels? It’s easier to have them installed and more affordable than you may realize. Contact us now to learn more about getting solar panels for your home:
Additional frequently asked questions about home solar panels
How many solar panels do I need for an average size home?
The average American home typically needs between 16 and 20 solar panels. That is based on average electrical use of 893 KWH each month. However, that figure may not match your needs because it depends on your energy needs. The size of your home, location, and many other factors play a role.
How many solar panels are needed for an 800 sq ft home?
A small home, such as one with 800 square feet of living space, is likely to require between 8 and 10 solar panels to power the home based on the energy consumption of a home that size and using panels that produce 315 watts.
How many solar panels are needed for a 1000 sq ft home?
With a 1000-square-foot home, you can expect to need about 300 to 400 kilowatts of power. That means you are likely to need around 10 to 12 solar panels that produce 375 watts each for this size of home.
How many solar panels are needed for a 1200 sq ft home?
On average, a home that is 1200 square feet will need somewhere between 12 and 15 solar panels to provide enough electricity for the home. Of course, this could fluctuate based on how much sunlight is in the area as well as the amount of energy consumption for the home.
How many solar panels are needed for a 1500 sq ft home?
A 1500-square-foot home, on average, will need between 14 and 17 solar panels to power the home. This is based on an average energy consumption of 967 Kilowatt hours per month. This number could also go up or down based on how much power the solar panels produce. The more energy the panels can produce, the lower the number of panels needed.
How many solar panels are needed for a 2000 sq ft home?
Depending on energy consumption, location, and weather patterns, the number of solar panels needed for a 200-square-foot home can range from 19 to 25. This number is based on 375-watt panels. This would assume that the home uses, on average, 967-kilowatt hours of power per month.
How many solar panels are needed for a 2500 sq ft home?
A 2500-square-foot home will usually need between 24 and 30 solar panels to provide 1,023 kilowatt hours of power. This is based on the average consumption of power for a home this size. Other factors to consider are actual energy consumption as well as the total amount of sunlight in the area.
How many solar panels are needed for a 3000 sq ft home?
A 3000-square-foot home, on average, will use 1,185 kilowatt hours of energy per month. If the home falls in line with this average, it will need between 27 and 30 panels to provide an adequate amount of power.
