TThe decision to switch to solar panels for house is easy for many homeowners. After all, reducing your dependence on fossil fuels is a no-brainer. Unfortunately, understanding the science involved isn’t quite as simple, and shopping for a solar panel kit for home involves many technical terms and concepts that we don’t typically encounter in our busy day-to-day lives.
We understand you want to know which type of solar power system for homes will perform the best, reduce your carbon footprint, and save money on your energy bills. That is why we have researched the best solar installation companies in the United States and the solar industry at large. This guide will demystify the jargon about the main types of solar panels and explain the design, materials, and efficiency ratings to help you choose the best solar panels for your home.
How Do Solar Panels Work?
A solar panel is a device that collects energy from the sun and converts it into electricity through another device called an inverter.
Individual solar cells make up solar panels. Each solar cell is made from layers of silicon. These silicon layers create an electrical field from the electrons inside the solar panel, resulting in direct current (DC). This conversion of electrons from solar power to electricity is called photovoltaics.
DC power then passes through the inverter within the solar power system for homes and becomes alternate current (AC) power. AC electricity powers your home’s electrical system and home appliances.
Compare the Types of Solar Panels
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels have an efficiency rating of 24%, making them the most efficient option available. They are typically black in color and have a lifespan ranging from 25 to 40 years. The primary advantage of monocrystalline panels is their high efficiency and power capacity, but they are also the most costly option.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels have an efficiency rating of 20%. These panels are usually blue and have a lifespan of 25 to 35 years. They serve as a middle-ground option, offering a balance between cost and efficiency. However, they require more space and have a lower heat tolerance compared to monocrystalline panels.
Thin Film Solar Panels
Thin film solar panels have an efficiency rating of 19%. The color of these panels can vary depending on the material used. They have a shorter lifespan of 10 to 20 years but are the most cost-efficient and portable option. Their main downside is that they are the least efficient and have the shortest lifespan among the three types.
Other Factors to Consider
A few other factors might influence which type of solar panel is best for your home:
- Temperature: Monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels have peak efficiency between 59°F and 95°F. Regions with high temperatures during the summer that may cause a solar panel to reach an internal temperature of more than 100°F may see a decrease in efficiency levels.
- Light-Induced Degradation (LID): LID refers to a metric of performance loss that occurs with crystalline panels during the first few hours of sunlight exposure. The sunlight reacts with oxygen left over from the manufacturing process, affecting silicon. LID tends to range from 1% to 3% in efficiency loss.
- Fire rating: International Building Codes require solar panels to match their roof’s fire rating to ensure that the panels do not accelerate the spread of flames. You will see that different panels come with a fire rating ranging from Class A to Class C. Class A provides the most protection in a fire, as flames cannot spread more than six feet. Class B ensures flame spread does not exceed eight feet, and Class C ensures flames do not spread beyond 13 feet.
- Hail: Crystalline panels are better for areas that might experience heavy hail as they can withstand hail hitting at speeds of up to 50 mph. Thin-film solar panels are not ideal for hail, given their thin design.
- Hurricanes: There is no formal classification or rating system for hurricanes and solar panels. Overall, a solar system that uses fasteners, through-bolting modules, or a three-frame rail system is better suited for homes that might experience a hurricane or tropical storm.
Choosing the right solar panel kit for home can make a significant difference in energy savings and environmental impact. By understanding the types of panels, their efficiency, and other important factors, you can make an informed decision that benefits both your home and the planet.
