100k Solar

How Many Solar Panels Are Needed to Run a House? (The Answer Will Surprise You!)

Are you contemplating about adding solar to your home? There are over 2 million homes in the United States with solar panel roofs and many  more homeowners are recognizing how beneficial solar is. If you’re thinking about having solar panels installed in your New Jersey home, then you’ve come to the right place.

How Do Solar Panels Work?

Simply put, solar panels absorb the sun’s rays and the solar panel technology create electricity. 

  • Solar panel cells absorb sunlight
  • Solar panels convert the light into DC power.
  • All solar panel systems need some type of inverter (such as Micro, string, or hybrid) in order to convert that energy to AC power.
  • Electricity is created and then distributed throughout your home
  • Any extra of electricity produced is then fed into the electric grid of your building.

 That’s how long solar panel systems work.

How Long Do Solar Panels Last?

Quality solar panels can last up to 25 years or longer and are designed to withstand the elements.

Solar panels typically come with a 25 year warranty, guaranteeing you the benefits for a quarter of a century.

According to a study conducted by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, solar panels can last 80% longer than their warranty.

How many Solar Panels Do You Need?

To find out how many solar panels, contact us 100k Solar and we can determine the best scenario for you and your solar needs. Additionally, consider the following:

How Many Watts Do You Use?

Look at your utility bill and determine how much kilowatt-hours(kWh) your household uses. 

Find the average daily energy usage will help calculate your solar energy needs. Once that is done, look at how much wattage you need to run everything in your home.

Peak Sunlight Hours

Solar panels work only when they are in direct sunlight. Once the sun sets, they aren’t producing any energy.  Peak sunlight hours is considered to be when your panels are in direct sunlight.

Peak sunlight hours can vary per location.

Most reputable solar companies can also help you determine how much solar energy you will need as well.

Solar Panels For a 1500 Square Foot House

The average home in the New Jersey is roughly 1500 square feet with typical electric bill around $100 month.  On average, a home would need 15-18 solar panels to cover the electrical usage for this home.

Types of Solar Panel Systems

There are three different types of solar panels:  Gid-tied, grid-tied with battery backup, and off-grid. 

Grid-Tied System

The most popular type of system used by residential homes is the grid-tied system. The grid-tied system is directly tied to your home and the utility grid, allowing homeowners to switch between power from either the solar system or the utility system.

If the grid-tied system produces more power then needed, the excess power will be sold back to the utility company or go towards prorating your bill.

Grid-Tied With Battery Backup

The grid-tied system with battery backup is also connected to both your house and the utility grid, but it also comes with a battery bank.

When the system produces electricity, it stores any excess power in its battery banks, allowing  usage at a later time or sold or prorated. 

Off-Grid System

The off-grid system is not connected to the utility grid at all. The off-grid system is only connected to your home and a battery bank. The battery bank is key, because it’s required in order to producing power for your home 24 hours a day.

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?

Solar energy has become cost-effective most recently, because the prices have gone down and they are accessible to the general public, costing half of what it was a decade ago.

How Much Does a Solar Installation Cost?

This can vary depending on the company, but for an average installation, it can run you between $15,000 and $30,000.

Many solar companies offer incentives and financing. There are a ton of other financial benefits that come along with installing your home:

  • Electricity rates have risen across the nation and are higher now than they have ever been
  • You can save thousands on electricity bills and will only continue to save more over time
  • The resale value of your home skyrockets. Many home buyers now are searching for homes that come with a solar system already installed
  • The government offers a massive tax credit when it comes to solar systems. Some states also offer a rebate program
  • The systems come with a warranty that secures your investment for at least 25 years

ms for your home.

Things to Keep In Mind

Solar panels are a great way to save money and go green. However, they only work effectively when using the correct products and proper installation.

Make sure to only use quality solar panels and solar equipment. Going cheap or using knock-off brands wont produce quality results.

Proper installation is critical. Not having it properly installed can cause ineffective panels, failure, or fires. Make sure to always have a professional solar company conduct the install for your home.

Call a Professional

 Contact 100k Solar and receive a quote to have your solar system installed for your home.

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Get a No-Cost Quote

Enjoy these benefits with Solar Energy

  • Cost Savings (No-Cost to You)
  • Increased Home Value
  • Solar Works Everywhere
  • Environmentally Friendly
  • New Jersey Tax Incentives
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