Anyone who plans to add an alternative energy resource to their home or vehicle they think about green energy resources and it is solar power system. But when they plan to get the solar panels they often get confused how big solar panels they actually need and what size solar panels would be perfect for their automotive, power boat or home to get the proper alternative energy power.
Here is some information that will clear the confusion and a proper guidance about what size solar panels to choose.
Normal Size of Solar Panels
The physical size of solar panels varies brand to brand. The average size of a solar panel for home use can be 5.4 feet by 3.25 feet. But for commercial and warehouse the size of the panels will be close to 6feet long. If the solar panels are for trolling motor batteries or for power boats, then a small size solar panel is enough to provide the energy. A 12 volt trolling motor battery can get enough energy from a small solar panel that is 14.1″ in long, 15.7″ in wide and 1/4” in Thick.
Weight of Solar Panels
The weight of a solar panel for residential use is about 60 pounds, on the other hand, commercial solar panels are wider than residential solar panels thus it is heavier than residential solar panels. Commercial solar panels weight will be closer to 70 pounds.
If the solar panels are for trolling motor batteries or for RV batteries then there are lots of options to choose lighter solar panels from the market. This cutting-edge technology introduces cool features for solar panels. Now solar panels are foldable which make it more convenient to use on a boat or RV. A 12 volt folding solar panel’s Weight can be closer to 0.45 lbs.
Number of Solar Cells
As mentioned above, folding solar panels are smaller than other solar panels it uses fewer cells to keep its weight lighter. A small 25×54 inches solar panel that is compatible for 12 volts battery contains 36 cells and can produce 17 volts peak output.
On the other hand, residential and commercial solar panels have more solar cells. Typically, a residential solar panel has 60 cells and residential solar panels have 77 cells.
What Size Solar Panels Perfect for You
People think big solar panels can produce more energy though it is slightly true but not all time. Because the power of solar panels depends on the wattage it can produce. Before you decide to purchase any solar panels, you should consider some basic things which are as follows.
Daily Consumption of Your Appliance
When you think that you need to buy a solar panel for your home appliance or for your marine battery You should figure out how much energy your appliance needs daily. This will tell you what size solar panel you really need. To check how much energy your appliance consumed daily check the billing statement.
If the solar panel is for a 12volts battery then you can choose a solar panel that can produce at least 15 volts.
Space Available to Install Solar Panels
This is the most important thing when you buy solar panels. You should consider the space that is available to install your solar panels. If you buy a solar panel that is larger than your available installation space then you have to replace it and get the right size that is fit to space.
Make a Budget
Without a good budget, you can’t get a good solar panel. Budget is important when you want to buy quality solar panels. There are three types of solar cells used in solar panels. These are Monocrystalline, polycrystalline, amorphous or thin-film solar cells.
Monocrystalline solar panels are more expensive than polycrystalline and thin filmed solar panels. These solar panels are more efficient than other solar panels. So, if you want more efficiency you have to spend more money.
Solar panels are worth using as an alternative energy producer. And the eco-friendly energy producing system recognized this as green energy.
What Size Solar Panel Do I Need to Charge a 12 Volt Battery?
When determining the solar panel size for 12volt battery charging, you’ll need to consider factors like the battery’s capacity, sun exposure, and energy usage. Typically, a 100W solar panel is sufficient for maintaining a 12V battery, but it’s best to consult with a professional for a more accurate assessment.
Challenges of A Big Solar Panel
If you like to use big solar panels, you have to face some problems. The first thing is more prices. The larger solar panels are fairly high. Another disadvantage is that the solar panel system depends on direct sunlight. So, you don’t get more solar energy on rainy days. Even it is impossible to collect energy during the night.
Big solar panels require much sunlight and a lot of space. If your roofs are not so big to fit the large solar panel, you can collect the standard size or install your panel in the yard.
Some people have no proper idea about how to charge their applications from the big solar panel. They can use the solar charge controller to protect against undercharging or overcharging.
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About This Writer
Hi, I am responsible for the 'Homeowners Power Solutions' category. My name is Liam Jaxon and a licensed technician with 7 years of experience in vehicle batteries, electrical gadgets, and home appliances. My working experience in different residential & light commercial electrical sectors and the automobile industry helped to acquire vast knowledge in this industry.