Understanding Solar Panel Specs
Las Vegas and Henderson homeowners are increasingly looking to solar panels to lower their energy bills and help the environment. However, with so many different types and brands on the market, how can you decide which one is right for your home? Your system specifications can be confusing, but a few key things to consider will help you make the best decision for your needs.
- Wattage
- Efficiency
- Product Warranty
- Power Output Warranty
- Solar Power Temperature Coefficient
Your System’s Wattage Measures Solar Energy
When it comes to solar panels, one of the most critical specifications is wattage, which measures how much power each component can generate and produce. All manufacturers will provide an estimated wattage for their products based on the setup’s size and the cells’ efficiency. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate, and actual output will vary depending on conditions such as sun position and cloud cover.
How Does Wattage Vary In Controlled Vs. Real-Life Conditions?
The rated wattage of your setup is the amount of power it produces under controlled laboratory conditions. However, home and business setups rarely see such ideal conditions in the real world. For example, rooftop installations only get maximum sunshine for a few hours around noon, and the actual wattage will vary depending on the angle of the sun and the amount of cloud cover. As a result, the actual wattage output of your setup will usually be lower than its rated wattage.
What Is Solar Power Efficiency?
The efficiency of a solar panel is measured by the amount of sunlight it can convert into electricity. The higher the efficiency, the more power you’ll be able to generate. So, a system that is only 15% efficient will generate less energy than one that is 20% efficient when exposed to identical amounts of sunlight. Sunpower brand solar panels are among the most efficient systems on the market.
Solar Panels Have Two Types Of Warranty
Unlike most consumer products, these systems come with not just one but two warranties. These are the product warranty and the output warranty. Be sure to read the fine print carefully in each case, as some warranties may exclude damage from natural disasters or require the purchase of an extended warranty for full coverage.
Solar Panel Product Warranties Protect Against Defects
The product warranty will give you an idea of what is covered in case of damage or defects. Most manufacturers offer a standard warranty of 20-25 years which covers the cost of materials and labor for repairs or replacement due to manufacturer defects. Some companies also offer an extended warranty for an additional fee.
A Solar Power Output Warranty Covers System Performance
A solar power output warranty is a guarantee by a solar panel manufacturer that their product will produce a certain amount of power over a specific period. For example, a 20-year warranty might state that the panel will produce at least 80% of its rated power output over those 20 years. The output warranty is important because it protects the customer if the panel doesn’t perform as expected. If the panel doesn’t meet the warranty terms, the manufacturer will typically replace or repair it at no cost to the customer.
What Is Your Solar Power Temperature Coefficient?
Solar panels operate best when they are cool. The solar power temperature coefficient measures how much a panel’s output decreases as its temperature increases. Most panels have a negative temperature coefficient, meaning they produce less power when hot. When choosing a solar panel, it is essential to consider the climate where you will install it. Due to the extreme summer temperatures, it’s best to select a model with a low coefficient in Las Vegas.
Learn More About Sunpower & Tesla Solar Panels In Las Vegas, NV
As you can see, when you’re in the market for a solar panel system, it’s essential to understand the specifications of each panel. As an authorized Tesla and Sunpower dealer, Lifetime Solar will help you find the perfect solar panel system for your home or business. Both brands are engineered to work great in the Southern Nevada climate, so give us a call today to learn more or schedule a consultation.