Here are essential factors to consider when choosing the best solar panel for your home.
You want to look for solar panels with the best efficiency that you can afford. The better the solar panel efficiency, the better the panels can effectively absorb the sunlight and convert it into energy. If you settle for panels with lower efficiency ratings, you will need more panels to run your home. Despite the expensive up-front cost, an investment in high-performing, efficient solar panels will be a sound investment into an effective solar power system in the long run.
Solar panel warranties protect both the panels and their performance. At the bare minimum, your panels should provide the industry standard for coverage: 10 years for the product and 25 years for performance. According to the Federal Trade Commission, the typical lifespan of solar panels is 20 years. We recommended finding a solar company that provides that minimum coverage to ensure your solar panel system stays protected in the future.
Because solar panels are exposed to the elements daily, it is essential to consider their durability. Panels with a good temperature coefficient can withstand extreme heat and continue to produce at near-optimal levels. Some panels have been constructed to support the weight of several inches of snowfall. You should select solar panels that work best in your local climate and weather conditions.
Residential solar panel prices will depend on the type of solar panels and their efficiency. Although you may focus on the cost of the solar panels, the price of the solar panel system overall is most important. Residential solar systems can cost between $16,000 and $40,000 on average. With an investment of this size, you want to ensure you get the best return on your investment.
Your best option would be to buy high-efficiency panels to help cut down on the number of panels you will need for your home. Buying cheaper, less efficient panels will cost more overall since you will require more panels to produce the same energy levels that fewer, more efficient panels could achieve.