By Alexis Grace
You want to save money on your electric bill and have some control over your power rather than be stuck with power outages. Solar panels seem like a great option, but which ones are right for you? Getting solar panels is a big investment after all.
With a little bit of research, you can figure out which types of solar panels will work best with your home and situation. Solar panels for home use are constantly evolving, giving you many choices about solar panel types.
Different Types of Solar Panels
When you are shopping for solar panels, you can choose between solar shingles, amorphous thin film, polycrystalline, and monocrystalline options. Each has different properties to apply to your unique situation. Solar panel installation with the right kinds of solar panels will be an excellent improvement for your home.
Solar Shingles
These small versions of panels look almost like regular roofing shingles and can be a great option for those who really hope their panels will blend in. These can be made of either thin film material or monocrystalline (see below).
As these double up as both panels and roofing, you will see a reduction in the overall cost of roofing materials for your home.
Amorphous Thin Film
These are considered a lower profile option, and preferable for those who want their panels to blend in with their roof. These do not have the obvious grid patterns on the panel that other types of panels feature.
Physically, they are lighter and more flexible. But what they gain in looks and weight, they lose in efficiency. They are the least efficient on the market.
If you need to comply with homeowner’s association regulations on the look of your panels or just prefer a lower profile, amorphous thin film panels are the ones to choose.
Polycrystalline
Polycrystalline panels are the middle of the road when it comes to efficiency and cost. They tend to be a lower cost to install, but do not have the best efficiency.
For many projects, they may meet the budgetary requirements without completely sacrificing efficiency. For the best of both worlds, choose polycrystalline.
Monocrystalline
If you are looking for the most efficient solar panels available, monocrystalline is the right choice. They do, however, come with some of the higher price tags as well.
These price tags must be calculated out over the life of the panels – of which the monocrystalline panels have an unusually long one. If you are looking for a long-lasting, efficient solar solution, choose monocrystalline.
Monocrystalline solar shingles are the most efficient option for the combined looks of shingles along with the workhorse power of monocrystalline.
What Solar Panel Options Are Right for You?
With all the different types of solar panels to choose from, you are sure to find a kind that is right for you and your home. Whether you are in need of high-efficiency monocrystalline or low-profile amorphous thin film, adding solar panels to your home is sure to be a great choice.
Solar panel systems can increase the value of your home up to $15,000, all while saving you on electricity costs.
Learn more about improving your home with green energy by checking out our home improvement articles.
