This month’s iteration of our Frequently Asked Questions Series will be focused around Solar Panels. We will cover everything from Lifespan to composition, all based on questions that our customers have asked within the past 30 days. Let’s get started!
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
The Average industry time frame states around 25-30 years. Keep in mind that this does not mean the solar array will one day simply stop producing power after this period of time. Solar panels will degrade over time, resulting in a loss of power production. Based on the manufacturer and efficiency of materials, this lifespan will vary. However, since Solar Panels have no moving parts, they can continue to produce power well after their recommended lifespan.
What Does PV Stand for When Discussing Solar Power?
PV stands for Photovoltaic and comes from the word’s “photo” meaning light, and “voltaic” meaning voltage. The term refers to the process by which a material (commonly silicon or a semiconductor material) converts sunlight into electricity.
Should I purchase Mono-Crystalline or Poly-Crystalline Panels?
Mono-crystalline panels prove to be a more efficient panel. However, they do cost more upfront due to their single crystal silicon composition (hence the term Mono). Poly-crystalline panels make up a majority of the current market due to their lower cost and continued industry strides to increase efficiency across the board.
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?
The number of solar panels along with type and size will vary rather heavily based on your application. There are many things to consider when putting together a PV array and we highly recommend leaving it up to the professionals.
We hope you enjoyed this week’s installment of FAQs, centered around Solar Panels. Remember to leave a comment with your Solar based questions. As always, we are just a phone call away (877-548-3387) and are happy to offer our expertise on all of your Solar needs!