Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Solar Panels for 2024

Dec. 02, 2024

Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Solar Panels for

A lot hinges on the type of solar panels you choose to install. High-quality panels from a reputable manufacturer can last decades and save you a great deal on electricity costs over the years. On the other hand, panels from manufacturers who prioritize initial cost over long-term performance can leave you with an underperforming system that won't stand up to the test of time. Learning how to choose the best solar panels is an important step in creating a long-lasting, money-saving solar system. First, you'll need to narrow down your aesthetic, budgetary, and energy production goals. Then, you can filter through all the options and end up with the perfect solar panels.

With competitive price and timely delivery, GECONA SOLAR sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

We want to help you make the choice that's right for you and your goals. That's why we've assembled a list of six things you should consider when selecting your solar panels.

How to Choose the Best Solar Panels - Top 6 Considerations

1. Comparing Solar Panel Types - Monocrystalline vs Polycrystalline

There are two main types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Which one you choose will impact the overall look of your system, its cost, how much electricity it will produce, and how much space your system will cover.

Monocrystalline panels have an overall darker tint to the cells and are typically the more efficient option. Panels with a higher efficiency mean you can produce more electricity with fewer panels, so your overall system takes up less space. However, for all their advantages, monocrystalline panels are often the more expensive option.

Polycrystalline panels have a bluer tint and are typically less efficient than monocrystalline, meaning you'd need a few more panels to generate the same amount of electricity. However, they do often come at a lower price, and despite the additional panels you'll need, will likely be the cheaper option. For a more in depth breakdown of cost, check out our complete guide about how much solar panels cost.

2. Panel Color: The Back Sheet and Frame

Another way you can control the look and price of your solar system is through the selection of backsheet and frame color.

Each panel is composed of several silicon cells that are placed on a back sheet. This back sheet shows through the gaps between the cells and creates a grid-type design. Some manufacturers offer solar panels with black back sheets instead of the typical white.

Black back sheets create a more uniform-looking panel that blends into darker roofs. However, black holds heat, so black back sheets may get hotter than traditional panels, which could slightly reduce the panels' efficiency.

There are also two options when it comes to the color of the metal frame around the borders of the panels: black and silver. Black frame panels can be more aesthetically appealing but will cost more. Aside from that, both black- and silver-frame panels should perform identically.

3. Determining the Right Solar Panel Size for Your Home or Business

Solar panels come in two different sizes: 60-cell and 72-cell. The size refers to the number of cells (the small, crystalline silicon wafer) on the solar panel. On average, 72-cell panels are about a foot longer than 60-cell panels.

Their larger size makes 72-cell panels better suited for large, wide-open spaces like commercial roofs and ground-mount systems. 60-cell panels are typically better suited to fit in tighter spaces, like on the dormer of a home's roof. However, this isn't a hard and fast rule and will vary from location to location.

Overall, 72-cell panels tend to be more economical, as they generate more electricity per panel than an otherwise identical 60-cell panel.

4. Panel Production: Output Rating and Efficiency

Both the panel's output rating and efficiency will impact how much power it can produce.

The output rating is the three-digit number in the solar panel's name. It represents how many watts of electricity the panel will generate under ideal conditions.

Most panels have a wattage between 250 watts to 400 watts, with a few panels exceeding the 400-watt mark. A higher wattage means more electricity generated per panel, but it will likely mean a higher price tag. Though you'll need fewer panels to reach your generation goals, it likely won't offset the price increase.

However, wattage isn't the only thing to look for. You should also consider the panel's efficiency, which is the percentage of electricity it produces from the energy it receives from the sun.

The more efficient a solar panel is, the more kilowatt-hours of electricity it will produce per watt of power capacity. This is especially important if you're concerned about the amount of space your solar system takes up.

For example, let's compare two 300-watt solar panels: one that's 21% efficient and another that's 17% efficient. Both will produce 300 watts of power under ideal conditions. However, the one that has a higher efficiency will be physically smaller and take up less space than the one that is less efficient. So if you have high electric bills and a small amount of space to install your solar system, you'll want to look for efficient panels.

5. What Kind of Solar Panel Warranty Will You Be Getting?

An important indication of overall panel quality is a robust warranty from the manufacturer. Many high-quality solar panels are guaranteed for 25 to 30 years and can continue working even after their warranty expires.

Purchasing solar panels that will last is essential to the long-term success of your system. The longer your solar panels generate electricity, the more money you save. Purchasing panels backed by a comprehensive warranty will help guarantee their success.

Most manufacturers offer two kinds of warranties: performance and product warranties. The performance warranty assures that the panel will be capable of producing a specified percentage of power during the warranty period despite degradation. The production warranty protects your panels from material or workmanship issues.

6. Overall Quality and Brand Considerations - What Makes a Good Solar Panel?

You want the highest quality solar panels at the best price. However, there are a few important factors to consider when evaluating the quality of a specific solar panel.

To get a true measure of a solar panel's quality, you'll want to look at its guarantee, the manufacturer's reputation, customer reviews, and the panel's technical specifications for efficiency, temperature coefficient, and power tolerance.

Another way to measure a solar panel brand, though imperfect, is by looking at what 'tier' the solar panel manufacturer falls under. When researching different brands, you'll likely come across lists that separate manufacturers into tier one, and even tier two and three, though there is no formal definition for tiers two and three.

Most assume tier-one solar panel manufacturers tend to be the stronger brands. However, this isn't necessarily the case. According to Bloomberg New Energy Finance Corporation (BNEF), the tier system for solar panel manufacturers refers to how bankable a solar company is. While it's fair to reason that a bankable company must have quality products, there are plenty of companies out there that do not meet the tier-one specifications but offer great, high-quality panels.

Overall Quality

Quality is a comprehensive measure that encompasses several aspects of a solar panel, including:

Efficiency: Higher efficiency panels convert more sunlight into electricity, which is especially important in limited space scenarios.
Durability: Look for panels that can withstand environmental conditions like high winds, snow loads, and temperature fluctuations. Standards such as IEC can be indicators of durability.
Performance in Different Climates: This section addresses how the performance of solar panels can vary in warm climates and the importance of temperature coefficients.

Brand Reputation

The manufacturer's reputation can be a strong indicator of panel quality. Consider the following:

History and Experience: Brands with a long history in the industry and a track record of innovation and reliability are often preferable.
Financial Stability: A financially stable company is more likely to honor warranties and be around to service any future claims.
Customer Reviews and Industry Ratings: Feedback from real users and ratings from industry organizations can provide insight into the brand's reputation and customer satisfaction.

Choosing the Best Solar Panel for Your Home or Business

While some manufacturers on our list are objectively the 'best' in terms of efficiency, warranty, or price, the panels that are right for you will depend on your specific situation.

You should go with the panel that offers the best value, balancing price with performance and quality. It's about getting a system you're happy with that's cost-effective and has the best ROI.

Here are a few factors to consider:

Assessing Electricity Use: Guide readers on how to assess overall electricity use
Assessing Roof Characteristics: Roof characteristics are used to choose the optimal solar panel setup.
Cost vs. Efficiency: Discuss how to balance the cost of solar panels with their efficiency to get the best value for your investment.

What are the Best Solar Panels on the Market in ?

There are many solar panel brands, but only a handful have risen to the top for our team at Paradise Energy.

With 15 years of experience installing solar for thousands of customers, we've gained valuable insight and experience with many panel manufacturers. We use that insight to select the brands that we can confidentially offer our customers. Our top three brands are:

Each of these brands was carefully chosen based on specific performance metrics such as customer service, company standing, and product specifications, including performance, aesthetics, warranties, and pricing.

Axitec

QCells

SEG Solar

Performance Warranty

25 or 30-year linear (85 - 87.5%)

25-year linear (86%)

25 or 30-year (84.8%)

Product Warranty

15 or 30 years

12 - 25 years

15 years

Pricing

$$$

Module Efficiency (%)

19.78 - 21.51%

20.6 - 22.7%

21.48 - 22.53%

Headquarter Location

Germany

South Korea

United States

Manufacturing Location

Asia & Europe

Asia & United States

Manufacturing Tier

Tier 2

Tier 1

Wrapping Up: Choosing the Best Solar Panels in

There's no one-size-fits-all answer to which solar panels are the best. That answer changes based on a variety of factors, like your budget, how much electricity you'd like to generate, the space you have to install the system, and what aesthetic concerns you have.

With the sheer amount of options available, this process can be overwhelming. Trying to determine the best combination of panel size, output rating, and efficiency is the most economical for your space, all while ensuring the panels are high quality and backed by extensive warranties takes experience. At Paradise Energy, we'll maximize your budget and space with panels that suit your specific goals, whether that is budgetary, energy-related, aesthetically driven, or a combination of them all.

How to Choose the Best Solar Power System (Updated )

Making the switch to solar is exciting.

But it can quickly become overwhelming once you start researching to find the best solar power system for your needs.

Sound familiar?

Don't worry. You're not alone.

Read on for an overview of the factors you need to consider when deciding on the ideal solar power system for you, including:

What are your total electricity consumption needs?
What are the different types of solar panels, and how to choose between them?
What about solar batteries and portable power stations?
Do you need an inverter? What kind?
Installation and maintenance
Making a final purchase decision

Let's dive in!

1. Understanding Your Energy Needs

First and foremost, you must determine how much electricity you need to power all the devices and appliances you want to run simultaneously.

It doesn't matter if you're buying a solar generator for camping or a whole home generator. You must start here.

If you don't know the combined running and starting wattage of the appliances you want to power simultaneously, your solar power system purchase could end up being a very costly mistake.

Here's how to determine your total electricity consumption needs.

Identify the wattage requirements of your appliances. Survey the starting and running wattage requirements of the appliances and devices you plan to plug into the generator. You can usually find the wattage requirements labeled on the appliance, but we've also compiled the starting and running watts of typical household appliances in the table below.
Convert volts/amps to watts. If your appliance's power requirements are in volts or amps, you can calculate an appliance's running watts with this equation:

Volts (V) x Amps (A) = ''Watts (W)

Count the running watts of your appliances. Add up the running watts of the appliances you plan to use ' does the total exceed the running watts listed on your generator? If so, consider buying a generator with more output capacity.
Factor in starting watt requirements. Identify the appliance with the highest starting wattage. Add that appliance's starting wattage to the running wattage total.
Calculate the sum. That final number is the total starting watts you need from your generator. As discussed above, to avoid overloading your generator, do not exceed its starting watts rating.

Average Starting and Running Watts of Typical Household Appliances

ApplianceRated (Running) WattsStarting WattsDishwasherWashing MachineRefrigerator/FreezerLight Bulb60-750Microwave600-TVToasterVacuumCoffee MakerBlenderClothing IronDryerToaster OvenCurling IronSpace HeaterLaptop50-' Box Fan

2. Types of Solar Power Systems

Solar panels ' also commonly known as photovoltaic (PV) panels ' are a necessity for any solar power system. The are three primary types of solar panels used for consumer applications.

Let's briefly go over each:

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

The gold standard for solar panels, monocrystalline panels boast a sleek appearance, and the solar cells inside (typically around 150 in a 400W rigid solar panel) consist of a single crystal of highly durable silicone.

One downside of mono PV panels is that they produce a significant amount of waste in production, which helps contribute to increased production costs.

But, for many, the resulting higher price tag is a worthwhile tradeoff in the long run. Mono PV panels have the highest efficiency rating ' usually between 20% and 23%. Efficiency as a solar panel spec indicates the amount of direct sunlight per M2 of a panel's photovoltaic surface it can convert into electricity.

EcoFlow's rigid solar panels have an industry-leading efficiency rating of 23%, up to 10% more than competitor's polycrystalline or thin film counterparts.

Essentially, this means you can produce more electricity using less space (and potentially fewer panels) than with poly or thin film PV panels.

Over the long run, generating more electricity saves you more money on utility bills. Once your solar payback period is achieved, the money you save goes straight into your pocket. Depending on the size of your solar array and your electricity consumption needs, mono panels may offer a better return on investment.

Polycrystalline Solar Panels

Polycrystalline panels are a popular option with many consumers because they typically carry a significantly lower price tag. However, their lower efficiency rating may actually cost you money in the long run.

Are you interested in learning more about All In One Solar Power System? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

Poly PV panels lack the sleek all-black look of monocrystalline panels. If aesthetics aren't an issue ' and you're not hampered by limited rooftop or exterior space ' polycrystalline can be a viable choice. Because of their lower efficiency, poly panels require more surface area to produce the same amount of electricity as monocrystalline panels.

Polycrystalline panels also use silicone solar cells. But rather than the cells being made of a continuous silicon crystal, they consist of many silicon fragments melted together. This construction results in the checkerboard appearance they're known for.

With polycrystalline solar cells, there's virtually no wastage. Manufacturing PV panels is cheaper and more eco-friendly than producing monocrystalline panels.

They come with a lower capacity and efficiency than their monocrystalline counterparts but at a more affordable price.

Thin Film Solar Panels

Thin film PV panels are even less efficient than polycrystalline PV panels, and their rated power capacity is typically low. However, their unique characteristics make them viable in some solar panel arrays. Thin film panels earn their name. They are up to an astounding 350 times thinner than polycrystalline or monocrystalline panels.

Thin film panels are made from various materials, including copper indium gallium selenide, cadmium telluride, and silicon. However, it's a non-crystalline silicon, not the same as what's used in polycrystalline and monocrystalline solar cells.

The primary benefit of thin film panels is their flexibility. It allows them to be easily installed on irregular or curved surfaces such as those found on RVs.

Thin film panels aren't your only option if you aim to maximize your available surface area for electricity generation. EcoFlow's flexible solar panels offer the same benefits but with monocrystalline solar cells and 23% efficiency ' unheard of with standard thin film panels.

3. Components of a Solar Power System

Aside from panels, what else do you need to get your system up and running? Below, we'll cover some additional components to consider.

Solar Battery

This may seem obvious. But solar panels only generate electricity while the sun shines, and your PV panels absorb the photons in sun rays. Unless you opt for a grid-tied system, you must store the electricity your panels generate in a solar battery.

For off-grid solar power systems, a solar battery and other balance of system components are essential.

First of all, you need to decide whether you want to invest in an all-in-one system like EcoFlow's portable power stations, solar generators, and power kits.

You also have the option to go for a DIY approach and buy the required components from different manufacturers. But navigating compatibility can be challenging.

Unless you're highly experienced with electrical DIY projects, choosing to custom build a solar power system is risky. You're probably going off with a professional installer if you want to purchase components separately.

Inverter

Solar panels capture DC electricity. Household appliances and personal devices ' basically everything you would ever want to use ' run on AC electricity. An inverter converts solar energy into household electricity. It's an essential component of any grid-tied or off-grid solar power system.

Cables

Solar power isn't wireless (yet!)

Depending on the manufacturer(s) you choose, your solar power system may come with all the wiring you need. If you work with a professional installer, they'll supply all the required cabling (and charge you for it).

If you're purchasing components from different manufacturers, select a universal standard (or the closest thing to it) for connecting separate components. Outside of solar power, USB-C is an excellent example of a universal standard. EcoFlow solar connectors are nearly universally compatible.

Mounting Hardware

Many modern solar power systems are easy to install if you're an experienced DIY enthusiast, particularly if you purchase an all-in-one solution like an EcoFlow solar generator.

If you opt to install a residential rooftop solar panel array, exercise caution. Hiring a professional installer is a much better option than a nasty fall.

4. Choosing the Right Solar Panels

We've already covered the different types of solar cells: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin film. Based on the brief explanations of each, you might already know which one you want to go with.

Besides the solar cell type, you have rigid, portable, and flexible solar panel options.

Rigid Solar Panels

Rigid PV panels are designed for permanent installation on residential rooftops or RVs. With an IP68 rating and an industry-best 23% efficiency rating, EcoFlow's 100W and 400W rigid solar panels are the ultimate for permanent installations on relatively flat surfaces.

Portable Solar Panels

If you like to go on outdoor adventures or don't stay in one place for too long, EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panels might be best for you. Portable panels are convenient for powering small devices on the go. You can even use them to supply energy to you in your RV.

If you're camping or even hiking, you can still bring off-grid electricity on your trek. The EcoFlow RIVER 2 solar generator weighs only 7.7 lbs (3.5 kg) and can easily fit in your backpack.

Portable solar panels are easy to bring wherever you go due to their lightweight and foldable construction, allowing you to take power wherever you need it.

Flexible Solar Panels

Want to install more PV panels but don't have a flat surface?

Flexible solar panels could be the answer for you.

Ecoflow's flexible solar panels bend to accommodate installation on curved and irregular surfaces. With a maximum rated power output of 100W, you probably won't choose to build your full solar panel array out of flexible solar panels.

But unlike thin film flexible PV panels, Ecoflow's feature monocrystalline solar cells and perform at 23% efficiency. That's the same industry-leading efficiency rating as Ecoflow's rigid and portable options.

If space is at a premium ' and if you're shopping for flexible solar panels, it probably is ' higher efficiency means you can generate more electricity with your available surface area.

5. Selecting an Inverter

An inverter is an essential component of any solar power system. All the sunlight and solar panels won't help if you can't convert solar power into household electricity.

If you're shopping for an all-in-one system like a Power Kit or whole home generator, the inverter is included.

If you're going the DIY route, do your research before making a purchase. An inverter is not something you want to skimp on.

6. Solar Battery Options

Next, you'll need to choose your solar battery.

Remember, solar panels only produce electricity while the sun is out. If you're installing a grid-tied system, a solar battery isn't required but you won't have electricity during a blackout.

Below, we'll briefly cover four solar battery chemistries to consider. The chemical composition is the primary determiner of its performance.

Lead Acid

Lead acid batteries have been on the market for ages. Think Duracell and the Energizer Bunny.

They have a relatively short cycle life and lower depth of discharge than other types of batteries, but they're a budget-friendly option.

Just keep in mind that a lead acid battery will only last for about 500 cycles.

Nickel Cadmium (NCM/Ni-Cad)

Nickel Cadmium batteries are typically superior to lead acid when it comes to cycle life and performance. One advantage of NCM batteries is that they function well in a wide range of applications ' making them well-suited for commercial applications such as air travel.

EcoFlow DELTA Max is the only current EcoFlow portable power station to use a Ni-Cad battery, but it's recently been upgraded to the award-winning EcoFlow DELTA 2 Max.

One look at the cycle life, recharge times, and overall performance between the Max and Max 2 will show you what a difference battery chemistry (Max 2 uses LiFePO4/LFP) can make.

Lithium-ion

Most new solar installations use a form of lithium-ion battery chemistry. These batteries are lighter and more compact than their lead acid counterparts but come with a higher price tag.

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP/LiFePO4)

A lithium iron phosphate battery (LFP/LiFePO4) is a newer subset of lithium-ion battery that's becoming increasingly popular for many reasons, including its long cycle life, fast recharge times, depth of discharge, and safety. LFP is used in our flagship product, the EcoFlow DELTA Pro portable power station and the vast majority of our other products.

There's a humanitarian benefit to LFP vs. Li-ion batteries too. Cobalt is one of the essential materials used in all traditional Li-ion batteries. 70% or more of the world's cobalt is mined and processed in the Democratic Republic of Congo under brutal labor conditions. Including by children as young as six years old.

LiFePO4 batteries are cobalt-free.

Not only will they give you better performance, you can feel like a better person for choosing one too.

Saltwater

The new kid on the block, saltwater batteries don't contain heavy metals and use saltwater electrolytes instead. As a result, they're much easier to recycle. However, this new technology is still largely untested and isn't widely available.

7. Choosing a Solar Power Installer

Do you want to install your own solar power setup or hire someone to do the installation for you?

Depending on the type and size of your power system, installation can be quite an endeavor to tackle on your own ' particularly if you're planning a rooftop installation.

If you choose to work with a professional installer, do your research and choose carefully.

8. Maintenance and Upkeep

Once your system is up and running, make sure you keep up with cleaning and maintenance so to maximize the benefits of solar power.

One of the most significant advantages of switching is cutting your electricity costs. Once you save enough money to offset the cost of your solar system, your solar payback period will be over, and all of that will go right into your pocket!

You'll get the best return on your investment by maintaining and upkeeping your system correctly.

Solar panels typically only require cleaning 2-4 times annually but follow the manual provided by your solar company for specific care and maintenance instructions for your system.

Spring and fall tend to be good times to perform this maintenance, as the panels may need cleaning after the winter months, as debris and dust can accumulate during that time.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are many factors to consider when choosing the right solar power system for you.

If you follow all the steps above, you should be armed with the knowledge you need to make the right decision for your household.

Don't know where to start?

Check out EcoFlow Whole Home Generator Solution today.

From camping to powering your entire house, EcoFlow has an off-grid electricity solution for everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose the best solar system?

The right solar system is a unique choice for each household. By following the steps outlined above, starting with determining your total electricity requirements, you can tailor the perfect solar setup for your needs (and your budget.) Don't forget to check for government tax breaks and incentives for switching to solar in your location!

How do I determine what size solar system I need?

You'll need to start by determining the amount of electricity your home consumes and ensure you have enough solar panels to meet those needs. You'll also need to check the solar input capacity of your portable power station or other balance of system. Once you estimate your total electricity consumption, you can start shopping for a system that meets your needs. Check out our article on helping you determine how many panels you need to power your house here.

What is the most effective solar system?

The most effective solar system depends on your specific use case! If you're trying to get your house off the grid and achieve energy independence, EcoFlow 400W Rigid Solar Panels paired with the EcoFlow DELTA Pro portable power station is a great place to start. You can always expand from there as your electricity consumption needs grow.
If you're looking for a solar generator to take on off-grid adventures, consider the EcoFlow RIVER 2 Pro.
The most powerful solution isn't always the ideal one ' it all depends on your use case!

What factors should you consider when choosing a solar panel?

When selecting a solar panel, consider your available space, the surface you'll be mounting it on, and whether you want a portable or permanent installation. Then move on to determining how many panels and what rated power and efficiency they need to meet your electricity consumption needs. When you reach this stage, it's crucial to understand that solar panels rarely produce their total rated power output ' and no panel will generate 100% of its rated power all day. Why? Find out here.

Which of the three main types of solar panels is the most efficient?

Monocrystalline solar panels typically boast the highest efficiency rating. Remember that 'efficiency' has a very specific meaning as a solar panel spec. It indicates how much direct sunlight a PV panel can convert into electricity per square meter of photovoltaic surface area. The higher the efficiency rating, the more electricity your PV panels will generate with a smaller footprint. Monocrystalline solar panels typically achieve an efficiency rating of 18% or more. EcoFlow rigid solar panels boast an industry-leading 23% efficiency rating. Polycrystalline PV panels average between 13-16%. Thin film panels are cheap but even less efficient ' typically, their efficiency is 7-10%.

Are higher-wattage solar panels better?

Solar panels with a higher rated power have the capacity to produce more electricity. If you want to generate more energy using less space, then a panel with higher rated power output is the better choice. Remember to check the solar input/charge capacity of your portable power station or other balance of system carefully. If the maximum solar input is 400W, you can only plug in one 400W solar panel (or 4 x 100W panels, 2 x 220W bifacial solar panels, etc.) Adding slightly more rated power than an EcoFlow portable power station's solar input capacity can actually be beneficial, as it can help you achieve the maximum input. This is because solar panels rarely produce their full rated power in real-world conditions. However, adding 2 x 400W solar panels is a waste of money ' any extra electricity generated will just go to waste. With some systems, overcharging by adding too many panels above the solar input capacity can even be dangerous.

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