By now, you’re well-versed in where you can buy 12v solar panels – but how do you go about choosing and purchasing all of the components? We’re going to walk you through every step of the process now.
- Decide between professional vs. DIY solar installation.
Depending on your experience, skill level, and even how much time you have, you’ll first need to determine if it’s better to hire a professional installer or try a DIY installation.
It’s important to know that it is possible to purchase your solar energy system from a distributor and then choose an installer – you don’t necessarily have to buy the products from the installation team. Some installers are willing to work with products you buy independently, so long as they approve of the items and all components are present.
Whichever you choose, your next steps will be to determine which solar products to buy.
- Learn what types of solar panels to buy for your project.
Before you can start planning out your solar energy system, you’ll need to understand your options for solar panels.
There are three basic types of solar panels:
Monocrystalline
Polycrystalline (also called multi-crystalline)
Thin-film
Each solar panel type is unique in its efficiency, flexibility, size, cost, and solar cell makeup. Weighing the pros and cons of solar panel types will help you select the right fit. For example:
The advantages of monocrystalline solar panels include outstanding performance and the highest efficiency level. The drawbacks of monocrystalline solar panels mainly center on the cost – this type is generally associated with the highest upfront cost compared to others.
The benefit of polycrystalline solar panels is that they are an affordable alternative to monocrystalline. However, one disadvantage of polycrystalline solar panels is that they aren’t quite as efficient as the top-of-the-line monocrystalline panels.
Finally, thin-film solar panel benefits include portability and flexibility. In terms of the downsides of thin-film solar panels, they do have the lowest power output and efficiency.
Ultimately, the best kind of solar panel is the one that delivers a balance of pros and cons that fits your needs but it’s also important to consider the price of solar panel as well as the solar tax credit.
- Know what other equipment is necessary for a solar panel system.
What else do you need for a solar energy system besides solar panels? If you’re planning a DIY solar installation, you’ll need to remember to buy all of the components – which isn’t difficult when you’re shopping through a distributor.
Here’s a handy shopping list for solar system components, in addition to panels:
Inverter: The inverter will convert direct current (DC) energy from solar panels into the alternating current (AC) electricity that will power your home or business.
Battery: With a deep-cycle battery, you’ll be able to store any extra energy your system generates. Instead of feeding it back into the grid – and losing out on the energy your panels made – you can keep it stored in the battery for future use.
Wiring: Solar panel wiring connects your system to your electrical panel.
Solar charge controller: The charge controller prevents batteries from overcharging by regulating overall voltage.
Mounting system: The solar panel mounting system is essential for securing and stabilizing solar panels in the proper position.
Other components: Depending on your setup, you might also want to consider electrical enclosures, meters, and other parts.
You can buy all solar energy parts individually or opt for a solar power system kit. These systems include all components for different setup options, including off-grid and grid-tie solar power systems.
- Determine how many solar panels your project requires.
How many solar panels do you need for a home or business? As you would probably guess, the number of solar panels depends on key factors such as:
The size of the property
Usable roof space (or un-shaded ground space if you’re considering ground-mounted solar panels)
Amount of direct sunlight available
Energy usage which can often be found on your utility companies energy bill
Electric rates found on your utility bill
Type of solar panel
Solar panel efficiency rating
The long term total cost of ownership
One of the most common questions we receive is, “How many solar panels do I need?” Figuring this out will be one of the more time-consuming parts of buying solar panels, but it’s worth the time and effort if you do it right. Here’s how to estimate the size of the solar energy system needed for your project:
Calculate how much energy your home or business currently uses using our kWh calculator.
Evaluate available roof or ground space and the amount of sunlight your property receives.
Assess the estimated yield of solar panels in your area to help you estimate system size.
Understand the wattage of the solar panels you’re considering and that you won’t get the total rated output from them all day.
Divide the wattage of the solar energy system you’re planning by the wattage of your chosen panels and add about 30%. This will give you an estimated number of solar panels for your project.
