A majority of people in the USA seem to be convinced that solar power is too expensive for the average person to install in their home. But the real number crunching shows a different story.
The price of installing solar panels and other types of renewable energy is dropping steadily. And the federal government has done a lot to incentivize Americans to install solar panels in their homes.
So what exactly is the average cost of solar panels? Keep reading to find out.
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How Much Is the Average Cost of Solar Panels for Homes?
The average cost of solar panels for your home can vary considerably depending on many factors. However, in general, the average cost of a solar panel system for a typical American home is between $13,000 and $18,000.
This cost typically yields solar panels with a cover efficiency of 16-22%. This makes a solar panel system quite expensive, but it is one of the most cost-effective forms of energy source available in the market today.
In addition, once you have your solar system installed and functioning, you will start to see a return on your investment in roughly three to seven years. The cost of solar panels is an investment that will pay off in the long run.
Factors That Affect the Cost of Solar Panels
The cost of solar panels is affected by a variety of factors. This includes the size of the system, the type of solar panel, how efficient the panels are, and the installation costs.
System Size
One of the main factors that affect the cost of solar panels is the size of the system. Generally, the bigger the system size, the more expensive the solar panels will cost. This is due to the number of solar panels and other components required. System size also affects the wiring, mounts, and other materials needed for a successful installation.
Panel Type
The type of solar panels used is one of the major factors that affect the overall cost of a solar energy system. This is because different types of solar panels are designed to perform differently, and the components used for each type affect cost.
For example, getting residential solar panels are one of the most efficient solar technologies available, but they are also the most expensive. Solar panels made from thin film technology are cheaper, and a cost-effective option, but lack the efficiency and output of monocrystalline models. Depending on user needs and goals, a system could be designed from any combination of these panel types.
Efficiency
High-efficiency solar panels tend to cost more because they convert more solar energy into usable power. Panels with a higher wattage rating are usually more expensive but also provide more energy, so they are cost-effective in the long run.
The quantity of solar cells in the panel affects cost. Panels with more cells typically cost more but they also offer more power.
Installation
The cost of solar panel installation is influenced by several factors, including labor, materials, and the system’s size and complexity. Residential systems, often more intricate, require different materials than larger-scale commercial systems, which cover a more extensive area and necessitate specialized equipment.
The installation’s location significantly impacts labor costs and travel expenses. For instance, installations on flat roofs might be more expensive than those on sloped roofs due to the additional challenges and safety measures. Moreover, it’s crucial to consider a solar company near you for your installation needs. Local companies are more familiar with the specific labor costs, travel expenses, and installation challenges unique to your area. They are also well-versed in navigating local permits and regulations, which can add complexity and cost to the installation process.
Choosing a nearby solar company ensures that these regional factors are adequately addressed, potentially optimizing the installation’s efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Consider the Performance Warranty
While performance warranties tend to cover a power output of about 80% after 25 years, there are performance warranties on the market that cover outputs of 90-92% after this amount of time has passed.
As Heatable suggests better performance warranties suggest that the product you are purchasing is superior to most but that’s not all. If a performance warranty covers a higher output for longer, it’s more likely to benefit you should something go awry. Therefore, a good performance warranty can also prevent unnecessary costs.
Calculating Savings For Your Home Electric System
Calculating savings for your home electric system is essential in order to maximize your energy efficiency. The starting point to determine your savings is to find out how much energy is currently being used in your home. You can do this by looking at the wattage rating of your appliances and electric devices.
Once you have an idea of the total usage, you can start to determine how much money you would save by making changes to your home’s electric system. By conducting an energy audit in your home, you can easily identify any areas of energy inefficiency that can be improved on and discover how much money you can save. Consider the following energy-efficient upgrades:
- installing insulation
- replacing old heating and cooling systems
- converting to LEDs
- investing in a programmable thermostat
Calculating the savings of your home’s electric system may require careful attention, but the savings will be worthwhile in the long run.
The Benefits and Drawbacks of Investing in Solar Panel
The benefit of investing in solar panels lies in their potential for reducing electricity costs. As well as potentially reducing greenhouse gas emissions by using solar energy rather than conventional sources of electricity.
Additionally, solar panel installations require little maintenance and solar panel cleaning. They even increase the value of a home.
On the downside, solar panels require an upfront investment and may not be feasible for those on a limited budget. Furthermore, their efficiency at producing power is dependent on the amount of sunshine in the area and will not function in the dark.
Finally, electricity produced by solar systems may not be eligible to be sold back to the local utility company, so it is important to research local policies and regulations.
Shop Around for the Best Solar Panel Prices for Your Home
Overall, shopping around for the best solar panel prices is worth the effort. Take time to research companies, compare prices, and read reviews to ensure you get the most high-quality panels to meet your needs. Reach out to companies today to get the best price and make the switch to solar power!
If this article about the average cost of solar panels was interesting to you, consider checking out our other articles today for more relevant information.
