Compare factors like panel wattage, efficiency, and degradation rate - understand the differences in performance in the short term and long term
Once you understand how different panels stack up from a performance standpoint, compare the cost - ensure the relative price tags are in line with relative performance
Ensure your investment is backed up by solid warranty coverage - LA Solar Group offers comprehensive 25-year warranties covering the equipment, production, labor, and roof
The first step to determining how many solar panels your home needs is to understand how much energy your system needs to produce. Take your total usage over the past year in kilowatt-hours (kWh) - this figure can be found on your utility bill or online account.
The same solar system will produce differently in different areas, based on its exposure to the sun. The average production ratio in the United States ranges from 1.3-1.6. If your roof is in a sunny state, like California or Texas, with little shading, take the higher end. If you're located somewhere with less sun exposure and more cloudy days, like most northern states, take the lower end.
The final piece of the equation is the wattage of the panels you plan to use. Once you have all three of these numbers handy, simply plug them into this formula:
Number of panels = production goal / production ratio / panel wattage
Take a look at this example for a California homeowner, who wants to offset 100% of their 10,000 kWh annual usage, has a roof fully exposed to the sun (meaning a production factor on the high end of average, at 1.6) who is considering a system with 450 watt panels.
Number of panels = 10,000 / 1.6 / 450
Number of panels = 13.8 panels
In this case, a 14-panel system would offset just over 100% of the homeowner's annual usage.
Once you have an understanding of the number of panels you need to offset your current usage, consider additional variables and circumstances.
For example, if you plan to purchase an EV or install a pool, you may want to oversize your system to account for the additional usage those will incur. Alternatively, if your roof cannot accommodate the number of panels needed to meet your production goals, you may want to consider a higher - wattage panel.
You’re interested in solar and renewable tech. LA Solar is the perfect partner to help you along the path. We’ll advise you on the best products and solutions for your home, offer them to you at a great value, get the job done right and be there to ensure you get great value for a lifetime. What are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
