The average American household will save $50 each month on energy bills by choosing to install solar panels in the home.
In addition to the financial savings, you’ll also help to reduce your home’s output of greenhouse gasses and lower your overall carbon footprint.
When you’re choosing the right options for your home or business, you need to know the different types of solar panels to ensure you pick the right one.
Read on to learn what they are.
1. Polycrystalline Cells
These solar cells are made out of raw silicon crystals that have been melted and pressed into a panel mold, usually in a square shape.
Because of the ease of the creation process, these panels are one of the more affordable options.
Keep in mind that, because they are less energy efficient than Monocrystalline cell panels, you need to install more of them in order to get the results you want.
If you have the space for that, it won’t be an issue — but if you’re trying to power a large home, this may not be the best option for you.
2. Monocrystalline Cells
Like their Polycrystalline cousins, Monocrystalline cells are also made out of silicon.
However, unlike Polycrystalline cells, these cells aren’t poured directly into a mold to create the panel. Instead, they’re cut out of a bigger, single piece of silicon. The names, “mono” vs. “poly” can help you to remember the difference between the two.
These types of solar panels carry a much higher energy efficiency than Polycrystalline cells do.
But as you’ve likely already guessed, that means they’ll also be a bit more expensive. Additionally, if you’re concerned about selecting solar panels that don’t create lots of waste within the manufacturing process, then you may want to choose another option.
If you live in an area with a warmer climate, however, these will likely be the right panels for you.
3. Thin Film Panels
The third and final option when it comes to different types of solar panels?
Thin film panels, which are created from layers of silicon or photovoltaic cells and then covered with a protective layer of plastic.
These are the lightest of the three options, and perfect for homes that have lots of shade from trees or even from architectural choices. However, these panels don’t offer the same kind of energy efficiency as the previous two options — which also means they’re incredibly affordable.
Keep in mind that, if you live in a harsh climate that sees lots of storms and hurricanes, these likely aren’t the right choice for you.
You’re an Expert on the Three Main Types of Solar Panels
Thanks to this post, you now have a much better understanding of which kind of solar panel is the best fit for your home.
Now, you just need to know where you can purchase these panels and have them installed.
We can help.
Whether you’re interested in having solar panels installed in your home or your business, we have the expertise to make it happen.
Get in touch with us to learn more about how to make your space more energy efficient than ever.