It’s estimated the average home in the U.S. requires 19 to 23 solar panels. This is based on the average monthly electricity usage of 893 kilowatt-hours.
While this is true, there’s a good chance your energy usage doesn’t line up with this average exactly. Also, the solar system size and the number of panels you need depend on other factors.
Keep reading to learn more about what you need to provide your home with sufficient power.
Energy Needs and Usage
One of the first factors that impact the solar system size you need is your energy consumption.
You can turn to your power bill to see what your monthly consumption is. Usually, the total amount of electricity that you use is displayed at the bottom of the bill in kWh (kilowatt-hours).
Remember that your energy usage varies from month to month, so it may be smart to gather your past 12 months of bills, add up the total usage, and divide it by 12.
Once you know your total energy usage, you can determine how many solar panels are needed to provide that to your home.
The more energy you use, the more panels you will need. However, solar home value is higher than homes without these installed.
Sunlight in the Area
If your home is in an area that receives less sunlight, then more solar panels are needed to power your home than those in sunnier areas.
It’s worth noting that those living in the southwestern part of the U.S. get the most sun in the entire country, while the northeast receives the least.
Panel Wattage
The wattage of the solar panels must also be considered. The wattage is often called the power rating, which determines the amount of energy the panels produce.
Modern panels today have a power rating of approximately 320 watts per panel. However, you need fewer panels when you install ones with higher wattage ratings.
Roof Space
On average, solar panels installed on your roof will require 335 to 405 square feet of space.
To determine the amount of space your system requires, you can multiply the total number of panels being installed by 17.55 square feet. This is the average area of most solar panels used for homes.
Understanding Solar System Size and Your Home
If you want to eliminate high electricity costs, installing the right solar system size is a must. You can determine what size is needed by considering the factors above.
It is also smart to work with professionals who can provide more information about your home’s right size solar panel system based on your needs. They will ensure you have sufficient power based on the factors above.
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