A solar equipment system is a great way to save money on your power bill and do your part to reduce pollution and conserve energy. But before you purchase a solar panel system, there are some essential factors you need to consider to make sure you get the right system for your needs.
A Guide to Help You Choose Solar Panels, Inverters, and Batteries
The market has dozens of inverters, batteries, and solar panels to choose from. Here’s what you need to know about each product before you make your purchase:
Solar Panels
Performance – Look for solar panels with a high-performance rating. The higher the performance rating, the more electricity the panel will generate. In terms of performance, solar panels are rated in terms of "Watts peak" or Wp. A good solar panel will have a Wp of at least 150.
Durability and warranty of solar panels – Solar panels are designed to last for many years, but it’s essential to consider the warranty when making your purchase. Some manufacturers offer warranties of up to 25 years. When considering durability, consider the environment where the panel will be installed. If the panel is exposed to harsh weather conditions, look for a rated panel for durability.
Solar contractor experience – When choosing a solar contractor, it’s essential to choose one with expertise. Solar contractors should have a minimum of five years of experience installing solar equipment. Also, be sure to ask for references and check them out.
Certification – Solar contractors should be certified by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) or the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Certification ensures that the contractor has the necessary training and experience to install your solar equipment correctly.
Inverters
Application for the equipment: When choosing an inverter, you first need to consider what you’ll be using it for. If you’re only going to be powering a few small appliances, then a smaller inverter will suffice. But if you’re looking to power your entire home, you’ll need a larger inverter.
Performance: An inverter’s performance is measured in watts. The higher the wattage, the more powerful the inverter. A suitable inverter will have a wattage of at least 1,000. The performance of an inverter is calculated by its wattage output and efficiency.
Efficiency: Most inverters have an efficiency rating between 80% and 90%. This means that for every 100 watts of electricity that goes into the inverter, between 80 and 90 watts come out. If you’re looking for a more efficient inverter, look for one with a higher efficiency rating.
Batteries
Type: There are two main types of batteries — lead-acid and lithium-ion. Lead-acid batteries are less expensive, but they’re also less efficient and have a shorter lifespan. Lithium-ion batteries are more expensive, but they’re more efficient and have a longer lifespan.
Capacity: The capacity of a battery is measured in amp-hours (Ah). The higher the Ah, the more electricity the battery can store. A good battery will have an Ah rating of at least 100. Always ensure that the battery you choose has a higher Ah rating than the inverter. This will ensure that the battery can power the inverter for the time you need it.
Bottom line
Aneva Solar Company is a full-service solar company that can help you choose the right solar equipment for your needs. We have years of experience installing solar panels, inverters, and batteries, and our certified contractors will install your system correctly. Contact us today for a free consultation.