Though they are cost more than other power backup options, solar panels kits have very less maintenance as they use solar energy to generate electricity. Solar panels kits come in different size and cost variants. To choose the best among them, it is important to choose below factors… [amazon box=”B00BFCNFRM,B01MU4PGLQ,B0748GKHZ8″ grid=”3″ tracking_id=“solarpanlkits-20”]
Solar Panel Type: There are four most common solar panel types – monocrystalline, polycrystalline, thin-film and concentrated PV. Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels are suitable for residential purposes. However, monocrystalline costly but highly efficient. Polycrystalline panels are priced lower but have less efficiency. Thin-film and concentrated PV are suitable for commercial purposes. Efficiency: It represents how much amount of sunlight can the solar panel covert into electricity. Higher efficiency means the solar panel will convert more sunlight into electricity. Solar panels come with efficiency range of 14 to 22%.Other factors to consider are power, temperature coefficient, warranty and size. We have mentioned them clearly in our “Buying Guide”.
We have also shared the Best Solar Panel Kits that are readily available in the market. Each solar panel kit has unique design and features. Check them in detail!
Best Solar Panel Kits for Homes
Best Solar Panel Kits Reviews
1. Renogy 100 Watts 12 Volts Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit
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Number one on the list is from Renogy brand. The name of the product is Renogy 100-watts monocrystalline solar starter kits. For its easy installation and portable nature made our list in the first place. It is perfect for the newcomers who are fascinated to learn the interesting concepts and apply to real-time applications like boats, sheds, cabins, and trailers. You can get this wonderful solar panel kit at reasonable prices. The kit mainly comprises a controller that helps to monitor the solar panel effectively and negative ground controller ensures the safety. When compared to others, you can expand the power supply up to 400 watts, the input voltage of 12V DC and also implement the PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) technology. When you keep an eye on charge controller, you will be able to see LED indicators and flooded batteries. A user guide is provided along with the hardware components to guide the newbie starting with an installation process to the maximum amount of power you can apply for performing the specific operations. The performance of the Renogy solar starter kit is very good and is specially designed for customers who are new to solar technology. Do not damage the rear surface of the solar panel as it will not deliver power to the respective modules. Pros
Reasonably priced. Battery protection. Can charge any other home appliances by supplying a maximum of 12V.
Cons
Installing solar panel is quite complicated. No upgrade option for the microcontroller.
2. Zamp Solar Legacy Series Portable Solar Panel Kit
Next on our list is Zamp solar’s portable solar panel kit. Zamp Solar is a popular brand that specializes in developing innovative and high quality solar solutions to help you thrive off-grid. This solar kit comes with a 140-watt foldable solar panel to power up your RV batteries. The solar panel is integrated with a 5-stage digital charge control to protect your battery and extends its life by 3x. The charge control is mounted on an EZ view bracket so that you can monitor it conveniently. The kit comes with all essential components to charge most 12 volt batteries including lithium batteries. Plus, the solar panel supports Zamp Solar ready RV ports. There is no installation required and you can use this solar panel right out of the box. You can connect the solar panel to batteries with the help of SAE plug or alligator clips that are included in the kit. The solar panel kit comes with support legs for providing stability. The support legs do not have any bolts or wingnuts that can cause cuts on your finger. For convenient carrying of the solar panel, you get a carrying case made of rugged nylon with thick padding. This solar panel kit includes the following components and accessories,
140w solar panel 10A charge controller 15 feet cable Nylon carrying case
Zamp Solar backs this portable solar panel kit with a 25 years output warranty from the original date of purchase. Pros
Weatherproof 5-stage digital charge control for 3x battery life No installation required 25 years output warranty
Cons
A bit heavy
3. ACOPOWER 100W Foldable Solar Panel Kit
Number 3 on the list is from ACOPOWER manufacturer. The company has 7-years of experience in selling the quality products and serves the customers over 50 countries. For this reason, it has become our top priority. The solar panel kit contains 2 pieces of monocrystalline panels with 10A charge controller and alligator clips. Additionally, you can also connect to the panel via MC4 connectors to charge the battery faster. To make the solar panel device work effectively, it should be faced directly to the sunlight. It usually works with 2-different batteries at the same time. The components included in designing the solar panel for home or other appliances are:
Anderson plug MC4 connectors Solar charge controller And the junction box with Handle Latches Diodes Fuse Crocodile clips Carrying bag and Aluminum frame
Although the cost is very high, the performance of ACOPower solar panel kit is excellent. The best part of this product is that it can be connected to different components and produces stable power at the output. Pros
Easy to set up. Portable nature. High-efficiency output. Angle adjustment feature.
Cons
High-cost. Made of exotic materials. Charge controller doesn’t feature waterproof.
4. WindyNation 100 Watt Solar Panel Off-Grid RV Boat Kit
Next one in the list is from WindyNation and the name of the product is WindyNation 100W Solar panel kit. For its uniqueness and budget-friendly nature made us list number 4. You can charge the panel on an average of 350Wh per day or sometimes it may depend on the availability of sunlight. The charge controller has adjustable settings to display the readings of voltage, current, and temperature. The controller can handle to a maximum of 4/8-pieces of a solar panel. Specifications of solar panel kit are as follows:
100 watts of maximum power. Open circuit voltage is 21.60V. Short circuit current is 6.32A.
The windy nation solar panel kit contains the following components:
Screws Clips Connecting wires and Controller
Pros
Weatherproof. Panels are made of polycrystalline materials. Warranty offered by the product manufacturer. Adjustable settings of voltages, currents, and temperature.
Cons
Moderately priced.
5. Topsolar 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Kit
Next on our list is Topsolar’s 100 watt 12 volt solar panel kit. If you want a solar panel kit for charging 12v batteries, then this is the perfect one for you. The kit is specifically designed for charging boats, caravans, RVs, and other remote power use. If the power is not sufficient, you can increase this system to 400W 12V setup or 800W 24V setup. The solar panel kit comes with 4 pieces of Z mounting brackets and pre-drilled holes on the back side of the solar panel. So, you won’t have any difficulties in installing this kit. You can install the kit faster and drilled holes ensure it is secured firmly in its position. The kit has several safety features in place to ensure that it lasts longer without any internal failure. The PWM function protects the battery from reverse polarity, discharge and short circuit, overload, and over charge. It has an aluminum frame lined with temper glass to make it resistant against high winds and snow loads. The specifications of this solar panel kit are listed below.,
23V Nominal voltage (Vmp) 4.3A Nominal current (Imp) 27V Open-circuit voltage (Voc) 4.5A Short-circuit current (Isc) 19.5% Cell efficiency
Along with the solar panel, you get all the accessories required for installing the kit. The package includes the following components,
1 * 100W mono solar panel 1 * 20A 12/24V solar charge controller 1 * 16ft 12AWG solar cable (black & red) 4 * Z mounting brackets
Pros
Can be extended to 400W 12V setup or 800W 24V setup Perfect for outdoor use with durable construction Lightweight with only 15 lbs Portable and easy to install
Cons
Charge controller does not have weather-resistant features Need to get extra wires and parts for installation
6. Dokio 160 Watts 18 Volts Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel
Number7 is from Dokio. It is famous for designing high-quality electronic components and my favorite model on the list. This solar panel comes with thick fabric protection and a carrying handle to move components to other places. Using the solar monocrystalline material it maximizes the output by reducing the loss. As it is made up of durable materials; very easy to install and make ideal for long-term usages. You can mount the solar panels on boats, cabins, cars, and rooftops. That is why it more suitable for home or outdoor activities and listed number 7 of top 15. If you wish to use solar panel kits at home or other premises then consider the following parameters:
Maximum power is 160Watts Operating current is 8.89 A Operating voltage is 18V Package weighs 4.1 kg
The Dokio solar panel kit contents are as follows:
160W foldable solar panel The solar inverter controller User-manual
Pros
Budget-friendly. Low-maintenance cost. Can use without batteries.
Cons
Occupies more space. Solar energy is not consistent.
7. Mule Store Solar Panel Kit
The Mule brand is well-known and trusted for providing high quality products that meet federal safety standards. Among their wide product range, FM123 solar panel kit has taken a place in our list because of its quality and efficiency. It has 10 watt of power capacity which is a perfect alternative choice to traditional power source and perfect companion to automatic gates. Installing these solar panel kits help in increasing the power bill savings and also increase your property value. They are also a perfect option for gates that doesn’t have power source nearby. You can even claim 30% residential energy efficient property tax. It comes in disassembled state. However, it is pretty easy to install using the instructions mentioned by the manufacturer. You can install them in homes, businesses, farms and more. Along with the solar panels, this package includes strong steel support, wire connectors, mounting clips, 8ft. low-voltage wire. Pros:
Easy to install Battery charged Works great even on cloudy days 30% residential energy efficiency property tax credit DIY installation 10-watt solar panels 1-year warranty
Cons:
No upgrade options
8. Newpowa100W/12 V Polycrystalline Solar Panel
Next comes on our list is the Newpowa polycrystalline solar panel. It is a very popular brand that provides quality products and better services to the customers. Though it offers quality products, there are some minor elements that made us list number 14. When compared to others the performance of the Newpowa solar panel kit is too good because it can work in different environments, portable design and long-lasting. If you see the rating 85 out of 100 have given a 5-star rating and if you want to have the solar panel in your home within your budget then go for it. Along with the hardware parts, an instruction manual is given to the customers to guide them about the working of a solar panel with neat sketches. The major specifications of Newpowa polycrystalline solar panel are:
100W maximum power Voltage is 17.2V Current is 5.81A and 3-feet MC4 cables
Pros
Portable design. High conversion efficiency. Can use without battery. Very economical to buy 25-years of output power warranty by the product manufacturer.
Cons
Solar energy isn’t consistent. Poor panel efficiency.
9. Rich Solar 200W 12V Monocrystalline Solar Kit
Rich solar’s 200W 12V solar kit delivers sufficient power to charge almost all single and dual 12v batteries. With this power, you can easily power your trailers, boats, and RVs. If you want to power large trailers or use it for other high-power demanding tasks, you can upgrade the kit to 400 watts power. The kit includes 2 panels that are made of premium quality monocrystalline solar cells for generating a high output power. The surface of the solar panels are coated with anti-reflective materials to receive maximum sunlight and generate more power. When it comes to the installation part, there is not much work involved. You do not have to use any tools for installing the kit, thanks to the pre-assembled wiring harness. Since all the brand’s products are compatible with each other, it is also quite easy to customize, expand, and upgrade the system. On top of all these features, you get a 25 years output warranty from the brand. So, you can have peace of mind and be assured that this solar kit will meet your power demands for a long time period of 25 years and above. You get the following components in Rich Solar’s 200 watts 12 volts monocrystalline solar kit,
2 * 100 watts Monocrystalline Solar Panel 1 * 30A PWM Charge Controller 2 * Mounting Z Brackets 2 * 20 inches 10AWG Wire 2 * 10 inches 10AWG Cable 1 * Parallel Connectors
Pros
Maximum solar light absorption 25 years output warranty Easy to install
Cons
A bit on the expensive end Lack of clear instructions on installation
10. WINDYNATION Complete Solar 100 Watt Panel Kit
Number 9 is Windynation solar panel kit. For its easy handling nature and multiple adjusting options; attracts the users to purchase this wonderful product without any delay. That is why we have listed number 9. The windy nation solar panel kit is specially designed for boats, cabins, home by providing 100 watts of renewable power. Its function is very similar to the other solar panel kits. The LCD screen displays the voltage reading, panel status, battery charging state and DC load line. Solar panels are compatible with lead acid, gel and lithium batteries. It can even provide a maximum of 25Ah of charge per day. Additionally, it incorporates the controller to monitor the power supply (up to 24V). The major components present in the Windynation solar panel kit are as follows:
Screws Clips MC4 connectors Mounting hardware Connecting wires Solar panel and Controller
Pros
Reasonably priced. Low-maintenance cost. Upgradable options.
Cons
No warranty information.
11. Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar RV Kit
Yet, another model from Renogy brand with polycrystalline materials. It is similar to the 1st one in the list but the slight difference is the power factor of 200 Watts. This wonderful kit is specially designed for the customers who are new to solar technology by providing the applications of trailers, boats and small power stations. It is a budget-friendly device that has all the necessary components to convert the solar (light) energy into the electrical energy. A user-manual is given along with the hardware components to guide the users by providing the electronic concepts with simple diagrams and graphs. Here are the few elements of Renogy monocrystalline solar kit:
Cable Solar panel PWM charge controller MC4 connector (M/F) Power adapter Clips and Screws and nuts
Pros
Reduces electricity bill. Budget-friendly. Offers an instruction manual.
Cons
The polycrystalline material is not much effective.
12. 30W Panel Foldable HKYH Solar Panel Lighting Kit
Next one in the list is from HKYH solar panel kit. This branded company is very popular and is committed to providing high customer services. Just like others, this solar panel kit also provides electricity without any deviation. It is completely an independent power system with a foldable solar panel and large output power. The multiple outlets allow the LED bulbs to work at the same time. Sometimes it can be used as a portable power supply device and 5V/2A outlet quickly charges cell phone, power banks, shaver and fans. The parameters you should consider before purchasing the HKYH solar panel kit are:
Polycrystalline solar panel 11V/30W Lithium battery – 7.4V, 13AH Light source is 2W LED (2), 3W LED (2)
And the components available in the HKYH solar panel kit are:
Adapter Power cord Instruction manual DC solar system 2W-3W LEDs and Foldable solar panel
Pros
Reasonably priced. Flexible to use. Uses polycrystalline material.
Cons
Not a waterproof.
13. SunGoldPower 200 Watt 12V Monocrystalline Solar Panel Module Kit
SunGoldPower’s 200W 12V solar panel kit is perfect for powering RVs, caravans, electric cars, golf cars, yachts, and outdoor tents. The solar panels have a high conversion efficiency to meet your power requirements for a long time on a single charge. This solar kit comes with some of the most advanced features to protect it from damages and offer more convenience to you. The PWM charge management ensures that it is protected from short circuits, overload, and overcharge. Besides, the kit also has the 12V/24V auto-sensing system. There is an LCD display that shows the charging current and battery voltage. So, you do not have to play the guessing game. You can exactly know how much power is left and when you need to recharge it. The LCD charge controller is also protected from over charge to ensure long optimal working. Like most other solar panel kits on our list, this kit also comes with pre-drilled holes on the backside of the solar panels. This will allow you to install the panels firmly and securely. But, the installation process is a tad bit difficult when compared to other solar kits on our list. If you do not have any experience in installation hardware or electronic components, you may need to seek the help of a professional. When it comes to the warranty, the brand offers a 25 years transferable power for the solar panels. Besides, you also get a 1-year warranty on the rest of the accessories from the date of purchase. Please check the full specifications of the solar panel kit below before installing it,
SG-100WM Model 100W Maximum Power 12V DC Voltage ±3% Output Tolerance 18.5V Voltage at Pmp 5.41A Current at Pmp 22.4V Open-Circuit Voltage 5.9A Short-Circuit Current 1000V Maximum System Voltage 47.2 * 21.8 * 1.4 inches Dimensions 16lbs Solar Panels
The package includes the following components and accessories,
2 * 100W Solar Panel 1 * 20A PWM Controller 1 * 10ft Solar Panel Connector Cable Pair 2 * Mounting Z Brackets Sets 1 * Solar Panel Y Branch Connector Pair
Pros
Durable construction and lightweight IP67 rated waterproof and dust proof feature Intuitive PWM LCD display charge controller 25 years transferable power warranty on solar panels and 1-year warranty on components
Cons
Expensive Installation is difficult
14. Weize 100 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Solar Panel Starter Kit
The reason that Weize’s solar panel kit finds a place on our list is due to its high efficiency that allows you to run your boats, trailers, RVs, and golf cars longer on a single charge. The solar panels are made of high grade monocrystalline cells that make them 21% more energy efficient than polycrystalline cells when you place them directly in bright solar light. One other main advantage of these solar panels is that there is no maintenance involved. The solar panel practically runs by itself. This solar panel starter kit is ideal for outdoor use. Thanks to the durable anodized aluminum frame construction with a tempered glass lining and sealed junction box that make them corrosion and weather resistant. The solar panel generates an output power of 5.3 amp that is used to charge 12v batteries. This power is sufficient to meet the power demands of small RVs, cabins, and for other remote power needs. Below is the full specifications of this solar panel starter kit,
100W Maximum Power Output 18.78V Maximum Power Voltage (Vmp) 5.32A Maximum Power Current (Imp) 1000V DC Maximum System Voltage 22.64V Open-Circuit Voltage (Voc) 5.7A Short-Circuit Current (Isc) 39.6 x 26.3 x 1.4 inches size 15.8 lbs
As the kit includes all installation accessories, you can mount this kit in practically no time and start using it. The kit comes with only 1 solar panel. If you are connecting more solar panels to meet high power demands, you have to get a large amps controller separately. You get the following components and accessories in the package,
1 * 100W monocrystalline solar panel 1 * 10A charger controller 1 * 20ft extension cables pair 1 * 8ft battery tray cable pair 1 * mount brackets and screws set
The solar panel kit is not covered under warranty. But, the brand’s reliable and friendly customer service is a comforting factor. The brand addresses the queries in a swift manner and ensures 100 percent customer satisfaction. Pros
21% more energy efficient Durable construction with corrosion and weather resistant Lightweight with only 15.8 lbs Minimal maintenance Perfect for outdoor use
Cons
Kit includes only one solar panel Output power is less
15. ECO-WORTHY 1KW Solar Panel System Kit
Last one is from Eco-Worthy brand. The name of the product is ECO-WORTHY 1KW Solar Panel System Kit. We have listed it number-6 for its Easy installation process and waterproof nature. Let’s get into the details now! The panel comes with a 200Ah battery, pre-drilled holes and M/F connectors. It has advanced water and dust protection system against the environmental parameters. For charging the battery you can make use wind or solar energy. The high quaity panels are ideal for many grid-applications and corrosion resistant frame is extended for outdoor use also. The following are the specifications of Eco-Worthy 195W PV solar panel kit:
Maximum power usage is 195W. The output voltage is 4kwh. Heavy-duty aluminum frame. Temperature ranges from -35℃–75℃
Pros
Waterproof. Easy to install and set up. Very economical to buy. High module conversion efficiency.
Cons
Poor quality materials.
What is a Solar Panel?
They are also known as PV panels. Solar panels are designed to convert the light emerging from sun. This light contains energy particles called photons which will be converted into electricity and used to power up electrical loads. There are several applications that include telecommunications equipment, remote power systems in cabins, remote sensing, residential purposes and commercial solar electric systems.
How Does Solar Panel Work?
Solar panels are designed for producing solar energy. These panels have photovoltaic effect which will produce electricity from sun light. If you are wondering how it happens, then here’s how… Sunlight contains photons which will knock off the electrons from atoms. This will generate the electric flow. To say in simple terms, the panels will convert the light energy into electricity. Semiconducting material (mostly silicon) is the main component used for making solar panel. This material is responsible for generating electric charge flow in the form of DC (Direct current). The DC should be converted into AC (Alternative Current) which is the form required to power up the appliances in houses. This form is achieved through micro-inverter or inverter based on the size of your home or requirements. The inverter also ensures the energy acquired from solar power is used only when then electricity is not available from the general grid that supplies the electricity. It doesn’t require any manual attention to turn on/off to supply the power. Though solar panels work seamlessly to generate electricity, to achieve the maximum efficiency, you have to change the solar panel angles based on the season of year and location.
Different Types of Solar Panels
There are several types of solar panels. However, most common types used in domestic solar panels are monocrystalline panels, thin-film solar panels and polycrystalline panels. Crystalline solar panels are the most popular option as it is available in majority of the solar panels that are used for domestic purposes. The purity of crystalline silicon represents the efficiency of solar panel. Polycrystalline solar panels are also a popular option for residential purposes. However, they come with lower efficiency rate compared to monocrystalline solar panels. When it comes to thin-film panels, they are mostly suitable for powering up commercial building and satellites. The last option concentrated photovoltaic cell panels are usually for research labs and satellites. Let’s discuss them in detail now…
a. Monocrystalline Solar Panels
They are made up of melted pure silicon crafted into bars and chopped into wafers. This will let the electrons move freely which results in generating high efficiency rate. Because of this, they are most expensive solar panel models in the market. They have a uniform dark color and rounded edges. Compared to other solar panels, monocrystalline models have highest power output and take up very less space. Most of these panels have 15 to 20% efficiency rate and longest lifespan of any solar panel type on the market. Most of the manufactures provide at least 25 years of warranty and reliability for these panels. Benefits:
Highest efficiency rates (15% to 20%). Space efficient Capable of performing even in low sunlight levels
Drawbacks:
Most expensive silicon solar cells Performance level may suffer if the temperatures are extreme. But the loss is actually smaller than other solar types During the production of these panels, more waste is generated because each side four walls is cut out. The initial silicon used will end up in waste. Some manufacturers use this waste for making polycrystalline panels.
b. Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels are made from using silicon fragments which are melted together and form wafer panels. Each cell contains many crystals so there is no much space and freedom for the electrons to move around. In order to achieve the same amount of power similar to monocrystalline panel system, you have to use more polycrystalline panels to cover a large surface area. In some cases, these panels are also referred as multi-crystalline solar panels. These panels cost less expensive as they are simple to make. The efficiency range of polycrystalline solar panels is about 13 to 16%. Compared to monocrystalline solar panels, these panels have a lighter color and more speckled look. Benefits:
Much cheaper than monocrystalline counterparts Less waste is generated while production.
Drawbacks:
They have less energy efficiency 13 to 16% To produce same amount of energy as monocrystalline panels, you have to place more physical panels. Compared to monocrystalline panels, they have short lifespan. They are also less tolerant to temperature changes. However, the difference in energy generation is minimal.
c. Thin-film
They are commonly referred as amorphous systems. These solar panels are created in a unique system that includes layers thin solar cells on base materials like plastic, glass or metal. Compared to other types, this type of solar panels is very cheap to manufacture. So, it is easy to manufacture them in bulk as well. They are easy to install, flexible and less affected by high temperatures. As these solar panels need a lot of space for installation, they are not recommended for residential purposes. Compared to polycrystalline cells, they degrade at higher rate. Higher temperatures and shading will not affect the efficiency of the panel. So, they are mostly used in wide open spaces like fields and farms. Benefits:
Cheaper alternative to other solar panels Being flexible, they are quite popular for several kinds of projects including installing solar panels on motor homes and others. Temperature tolerant
Drawbacks:
4X less efficient compared to monocrystalline panels Low efficiency and take more space for installation They have shortest lifespan among these three types
d. Concentrated PV Cell
This solar panels are made up of concentrated photovoltaic material. This makes the most efficient than monocrystalline panels with 41% efficiency rate. Being extremely expensive, they are only used on research labs and satellites. They are not suitable for residential purposes.
How to Choose The Best Solar Panels
While choosing solar panels, you have to consider several factors. We have mentioned them clearly in the buying guide below. Read it thoroughly to make the right choice that satisfies your requirements.
1. Power
This factor provides information on the energy output capacity of the panel system (according to Standard Test Conditions). It is measured in terms of watts (w). The power or capacity of the solar panels has direct impact on the cost and usually compared in dollars per watt. Watts provided represents the output of each module. For example, if you have installed 100W panel, then it will generate 100 watts hours of electricity every hour under ideal conditions. If you install 200W panel, then it will generate 200 watts every hour. When it comes to price, you will have to spend twice the amount for 200W compared to 100W solar panel. Apart from price, output of the solar panel can also impact its size. For example, 200W panel will have a large size than 100W module. Solar cell types used in the product also impact the size of the solar panel. The main factor to consider while analyzing the size of the solar panel you have to consider how much power do you need to power up the appliances. and moreover the solar panels should physically fit in the area while installing them. If you have north facing roof space, then it is the most valuable place to install solar power real estate. Apart from north, west facing panels are also helpful. If in case, there is a chance you want to increase the solar panels, then make sure you have to enough space to install more. Or else, you may have to just to replace the whole model, even if it is working perfectly fine.
2. Efficiency
It represents how much amount of sunlight can the solar panel covert into electricity. While analyzing this feature you have to use the basic rule – higher efficiency means the solar panel will convert more sunlight into electricity. Usually, most of the solar panels manufactured by major brands come with efficiency range of 14 to 22%. The efficiency of solar panel can also impact the output of solar panel. For instance, 300W solar panel has 17.89% efficient and 290W has 17.3% efficient.
3. Power Tolerance
It will determine how much the solar panel can deviate from its original stated power by the manufacturer. This deviation is usually expressed in watts or percentage. For example, 100W panel will have tolerance of +3% / −0% – means the actual power can vary between 100 to 103W. However, if the tolerance is +%W / -0W, means the actual input can vary between 100W to 105W in general conditions.
4. Temperature Coefficient
As already mentioned above, temperature can have an impact on the efficiency of solar panels. If you have to know how much impact will be there on the solar panel efficiency because of temperature rise, then you have to check out the temperature coefficient. It is represented in terms of percentage decrease in power output for every 1°C increase in temperature (above 25°C or 77°F). After this range, the efficiency will energy production by solar panels will decrease. While analyzing this factor, you have to understand that solar panels will not work well in extreme sun (i.e., summers). For example, solar panels were tested at 45°C but no you may be experiencing 55°C temperature. If the solar panel is rated with temperature coefficient of 0.4% watt power, then to know the exact efficiency, you have to multiply it with difference in temperature (10°C). Temperature coefficient can be different for amperage, voltage and wattage. Monocrystalline solar panels perform better than other types at higher temperatures. This factor isn’t most important one unless you live in an extremely hot climatic locality. Because heat has a major impact of the efficiency of solar panels as it reduces the output.
5. Performance Degradation
It’s common for solar panel to experience a decrease in performance over long term (like 25-years lifespan). After 1-year of solar panel installation, you can experience 2 to 3% decrease in the efficiency. And you will experience 0.2 to 0.7% degradation every year after that.
6. UL Listed
UL means Underwriters Laboratories – it is an organization with an experience of around 100 years. This organization will set the standards and performs safety tests to make sure the products are safe and efficient for public use. If you are going to install them in your home, then check out for UL 1703 standard certification.
7. Size and Weight
This factor is important to consider for people who don’t have limited roof space for installing solar panels. Dimensions of solar panels are mentioned in L x W x H. You have to choose based on your preference and space you can afford for the installation. When it comes to weight, you should know how heavy they are. If your house roof top is not strong enough to handle the weight of solar panels, then you should opt for light-weight models.
9. Maximum Wind Load
This factor represents the tolerance of solar panels when there is maximum wind load. This tolerance is represented by manufacturer in pascals (Pa). Higher the pascals, better will the wind tolerance. Most of the solar panels available in market are have 2,400 Pa certification which is actually equivalent to 140 mph.
10. Cost Per Watt
For most of the people budget plays a major role in decision making process. Solar panels are available in different sizes and size plays a major role in the pricing factor. Full-sized panels come in 275 to 400 watts price range. Small panels are suitable for off-grid applications. Monocrystalline solar panels (100W) come within price range between $210 to $300. Polycrystalline solar panels (100W) range between $70 to $110. Thin film solar panels (100W) range between $180 to $230. If you want more than 100W solar panels, then the price will increase based on that.
11. Brand Reputation
What good is the product is it doesn’t last long or has any customer service to help you in the time of need. Usually, popular and well-known brands have good customer service. To know the brand record and how they behave with customers for their issues, we recommend to read the reviews of customers. It is better to choose a brand that has stable track record with solar panels.
12. Warranty
Most of the solar panels come with a warranty period which ensures the system functions smoothly for sure in that time duration. Warranty period of solar panels range from 10 years to 25 years depending on the manufacturer.
Benefits of Using Solar Panels
There are several advantages of investing in solar panels. We have mentioned them below for your reference.
Solar power is very economical and clean with almost no maintenance requirements. They are also considered as one-time investment for this reason. Solar panels usually last up to 25 years and with less maintenance, they save a lot over long term. Power transformed from sunlight is actually renewable and pure. The panels don’t emit any fumes, carbon or greenhouse gas. They are absolutely silent. They are self-sustaining so you don’t have to worry about them much.
How to Calculate the Solar Panel Capacity For My Needs?
Before purchasing solar panels, you have to understand how much capacity is required to power up your house. For that, you have to calculate your exact needs…
Analyze how may and which devices you need power backup Determine how many watts does each device use Decide how many hours per day do you want the power backup
Below is the calculation that helps you decide… First calculate how many watts hours per day does each device will need. For example, 20W x 3-hours run time equals to 60watts. Now add the watt hours of every device to know the exactly how much watts hours you require. 60 watt hours (device A) + 300 watt hours (device B) = 360 watt hours
How To Calculate Compatible Battery for Solar Panels?
Once the solar energy is absorbed through solar panels, the energy will be send into a battery for storage purposes. From battery, it will be distributed to appliances when required. You should purchase a battery that has enough capacity to handle your requirement. Battery capacity of solar panels is measured in ampere hours. So, Energy Needs / battery voltage = Battery ampere hours. For example, if we consider battery capacity of 12v battery system with 490 total watt hours. So, 490 / 12 = 40.8 ampere hours But batteries are not always 100% efficient all the time. So, let’s consider the battery efficiency as 80% ampere per hour. So, 40.8 x 0.80 = 32.6 ampere hours Now that you have got the exact requirement, you should consider purchasing a battery that has at least a little bit higher than the calculated total ampere hours.
Conclusion
Of all, my top pick will be Renogy 100W/12V Monocrystalline Solar Starter Kit because it was designed for entry-level candidates to professionals for understanding the concepts without any difficulty. This starter kit mainly features the controller and PWM-technology that in turn responsible for the overall performance. Though the product is costly, for its easy installation process and portable nature made our list in the first place. If you wish to have a solar panel in your home then immediately purchase the kit to save time and money spent on other resources. Solar panel kit is perfect for newcomers who are fascinated to learn the interesting concepts and apply to real-time applications. It will definitely be a great asset for the children to get into the core electronics. Just get it with a single click and tell us how you are benefitted in the comment section given below: Comment * Name * Email * Website
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