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Solar panels for home and business areas are growing in popularity. Solar panels can convert solar energy into electricity, but there is still the question of exactly how efficient solar panels are. Sunlight is a very abundant resource, and you might be wondering if there is a way to efficiently convert 100% of the sunlight into 100% energy.
The reality is that most solar panels are only about 15% to 18% efficient in terms of converting solar energy to electricity. The rest of the sunlight that makes contact with the solar panel simply warms the surface.
However, this is not a clear estimation of the efficiency of each solar panel. Numerous factors come into play, and you may tweak these factors to your favor so that you are left with the most efficient solar panel to yield you the highest levels of energy.
Factors Affecting Solar Panel Efficiency
Numerous factors affect solar panel efficiency. The two main types are internal factors and external factors.
Solar panel age
This refers to how long it has been since you purchased the solar panel model, as well as how long the model itself is. Solar panels have been around for a long time, dating back to 1893. Since then, solar panels have been adjusted, tweaked, and improved with the goal of maximum efficiency. Each new model is better and more efficient than the last since they possess recent innovations compared to models from five decades ago.
Types Of Solar Panels
There are two main types of solar panels. The first is thermal panels which are typically used to create hot water. These directly capture the warmth from the sun, especially in warmer climates. The second type is photovoltaic (PV) panels. PV panels work by separating the electrons from solar energy, which leaves you with the electricity you may use to power appliances, lights, and more. PV panels are popularly used for residential solar panels.
Materials
The solar panel materials likewise impact the panel’s efficiency as a whole. Monocrystalline panels mean that each cell in the PV panel is made of a singular silicone crystal. These are characterized by black cells and round edges. Polycrystalline solar panels have multiple silicone crystals in each unit. These are melded together when the panel is being manufactured. Polycrystalline solar panels have a generally lower electrical output but are more durable and can last longer.
Other Factors Affecting Solar Power Efficiency
There are external factors that can likewise affect the efficiency of solar panels.
Exposure to sun
Some areas receive more sunlight for long hours each day than other areas; this could be due to the geographical location. Other factors likewise affect the average sun exposure, such as the presence of infrastructures, trees, and seasonal changes. At the end of the day, the panels with longer sun exposure will undoubtedly be more efficient than those exposed to fewer hours each day.
Solar plan
Your solar plan refers to the overall solar panel system you have installed. Systems with fewer panels covering small square footage will be less efficient than bigger systems. Additionally, the quality of the materials used to manufacture the panels will likewise affect efficiency. High-quality panels with premium components fare better and last longer.
The best thing to do as a consumer is to perform due diligence and perform your research to compare the plans. It is not worth it to skimp on a solar plan just for it to barely power your home or only last for a few years. The best option is one that caters to your needs and will get you your money’s worth.
Design
The design refers to the installation process of the solar panels. The panels must be placed in locations that will optimize sun exposure. They should also be installed correctly so that they won’t lift or be blown away.
As such, it helps to consult a solar panel expert and send pictures of your location. They can help your decision-making process by recommending the panels that will fit your location.
House upgrades
The solar panels may lower in terms of efficiency if they will need to power more appliances around the house. Purchasing a new refrigerator can affect the overall output. Make sure to determine the maximum output that your panels can deliver before you purchase numerous appliances. Otherwise, you might need to add more panels or upgrade your solar plan to generate enough electricity supply that can keep up with the demand.
Ways To Keep Your Solar Panels Efficient
Cleanliness
The accumulation of dust and dirt can affect the efficiency of solar panels. Simply put, these minute obstacles can block the entry of sunlight into the cells. Consequently, the light cannot enter through nor be converted into electricity. It greatly helps to conduct regular cleaning and maintenance sessions to ensure that the panels stay clean. Be wary of dried leaves, broken branches, or any piece of garbage that may accumulate on the surface.
Perform a deep cleaning session at least once a year to prevent buildup. This is also helpful for keeping your panels in top shape. This prevents further damage that may be caused by dirt and dust. You also get to save a lot of money in the long run since you avoid repair costs or the need to replace parts or the panel as a whole.
Maintenance
Maintenance is necessary to ensure that the solar panel is in top working shape all year round. In this way, you can prevent problems or spot issues way before they become worse. Routine maintenance is part of your responsibilities as an owner of solar panels. Simply consult the user manual that comes with the panels to know the basic maintenance routine. You may also contact your panel supplier at least once a year for an even more thorough checkup. The simple act of maintenance lets you get rid of serious problems in the long run.
Solar is a growing industry. The demand for solar panels has tripled in the last few years. Solar businesses are also booming and consumers don’t know where to go to purchase. Good thing that exclusive Solar lead generation companies are here to lead them to where to buy. Solar panels are truly efficient and are eco-friendly.
