It is hardly surprising that many are investing in solar for their homes. Aside from helping your home become more environmentally friendly, installing solar panels on your roof can significantly reduce electricity costs. Still, not everyone knows the different types and options available for solar on residential roofs, so we’re here to help!
Read on to learn about the three types of solar panels and the three kinds of solar power systems for installing solar in residential homes.
The Three (3) Types of Solar Panels
Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, and Thin Grid (or Thin-film) solar panels are the three most common types of solar panels installed in residential homes.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels are the highest grade out of all three types of solar panels. They are slightly more expensive per unit price, but they produce more energy and take less space, making them a highly efficient choice. Monocrystalline panels are made using pure single-crystal silicon that is then cut into wafers, so the resulting product has a sleek, black appearance with a high-efficiency rating. And although the upfront cost of installing monocrystalline solar panels may be higher than with other types of solar panels, they more than make up for it with bigger energy savings and lesser maintenance. Thus, monocrystalline is also the preferred and most recommended option for domestic installations.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline solar panels are made by melting together fragments of silicon crystals in square molds and cutting them into wafers. Thus, the resulting product is cheaper than, but not as efficient as, monocrystalline solar panels. Polycrystalline solar panels have a bluish hue to them compared to monocrystalline ones. They also take up more space since you will need to install more pieces because of their lower efficiency.
Thin Grid or Thin-Film Solar Panels
The Thin Grid, also known as Thin-film solar panels, is the cheapest but least efficient type. It is temperature-tolerant and flexible but possibly better suited for camping RV installation than on residential roofs.
Three types of Solar power systems
Grid-tied solar power systems. Grid-tied is when your solar power system is connected to the electric service grid in the area. So, when your solar is not drawing enough power from the sun, it can use energy from the grid. It is a common misconception that homes using solar do not have to worry about power interruptions, but not if you’re using grid-tied solar power, which is still wired to your electricity service.
Grid-tied with service backup battery. This solar power system type is akin to the grid-tied, except for the existence of solar batteries from which your solar panels can draw energy as a backup when the sun goes down or when there is a power interruption.
Off-Grid solar power system. As its name implies, an off-grid solar power system is entirely independent of your electricity supply. This solar power system should be large enough to generate more energy than you use and have an equally large energy storage capacity to store the generated solar power for use during “shadier” or low sunlight seasons.
The type of solar panels and power systems ideal for residential home installation vary per property type, location, and requirements. Therefore, it is best to consult and work with experts like JBL Roofing & Construction when installing solar panels on residential homes. With their experience and expertise, JBL Roofing & Construction can help ensure you choose and install the solar panels and power systems most suitable for you.
Contact JBL Roofing & Construction for a free estimate today!
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