What's the difference between 60 cell and 72 cell solar ...

The primary distinction between 60 cell and 72 cell solar panels is straightforward: 72-cell panels are 12 inches taller and include 12 additional solar cells.

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Various types of solar panels are offered in the market, differing in efficiency, wattage, manufacturer, aesthetics, and more. The number of silicon cells in panels also varies, with 60-cell and 72-cell panels being the most common choices in residential installations. This article explores the differences between these two types and helps determine which might be the best fit for your needs.

While the distinction seems evident, there is a deeper conversation to be had.

Recently, while designing a system for a residential client, she inquired, "I can't use 72-cell panels at my house, can I?" Her misconception was that 72-cell panels were exclusively for commercial use, which is a common myth.

Through our conversation, I discovered she had encountered some misleading articles suggesting that 72-cell mono solar panels were strictly for commercial applications and necessitated special installation hardware and added labor costs.

This misinformation is unfounded.

This article aims to clarify and debunk these misconceptions.

Dispelling Myths Surrounding 72-Cell Solar Panels

A prevalent myth online is that 72-cell solar panels are unsuitable for residential applications.

This is simply incorrect. In fact, about half of all residential systems we design at Prostar Solar incorporate 72-cell mono solar panels.

It's true that commercial uses favor 72-cell panels because they require fewer racking rails, electrical connections, and clamps, resulting in lower installation costs on a larger scale.

However, residential users can also enjoy the advantages that 72-cell solar panels provide.

Installation Difficulty: 72-Cell vs. 60-Cell Panels

Some claim that installing 72-cell panels is more complicated. This belief is somewhat exaggerated.

While 72-cell solar panels are indeed larger and heavier, moving and installing them typically involves two people regardless of size. With installation crews usually consisting of 2-3 team members, handling the larger panels shouldn't be a significant challenge. Experienced crews can manage the increased size with ease.

Although working with larger panels may require more physical effort, the installation process can be quicker overall. Fewer panels mean less time spent on electrical connections and fastening clamps.

Additionally, you do not need to invest in sturdier racking systems for 72-cell panels. Solar panel racks are universal, meaning the size of the chosen panel won't affect mounting options for different installations.

While thicker rails may be available for challenging environments such as areas prone to hurricanes or heavy snowfalls, it is unnecessary to purchase heavy-duty racking solely to accommodate larger 72-cell panels, which is a common misunderstanding. Standard racking systems are typically sufficient.

In fact, using 72-cell panels often reduces costs associated with racking since the panels maintain a similar width to their 60-cell counterparts (approximately 40 inches), requiring an equal amount of racking material to support a greater amount of solar energy.

Choosing Between 60 Cell and 72 Cell Solar Panels

Given that the main difference between 60-cell and 72-cell solar panels is their size, how do you decide which one to use?

The crucial deciding factor is the panel’s overall value, calculated based on cost-per-watt.

To determine this, divide the panel price by its rated output (commonly between 300W-400W per panel). This figure provides a baseline for comparing panel value regardless of size.

Our recommendation is to opt for the best cost-per-watt panel that fits within your installation space.

For instance, if your available mounting dimension is 35 inches wide and 10 inches tall, you can only set a row of 10 panels. Fitting 72-cell panels would allow you to maximize power generation, given the extra height accommodates the taller panel.

Standard Solar Panel Dimensions:
60-cell panels: 39" x 65"
72-cell panels: 39" x 77"

Conversely, if your mounting space measures 35 inches wide and only 6 inches in height, 60-cell panels would be your only viable option.

For more insights regarding 72 Cells Solar Panel Solution, please reach out to us for professional guidance.

Cost of Installation

The installation expenses associated with 60-cell and 72-cell panels may differ slightly based on individual project requirements. Generally, 72-cell solar panels are less expensive to install for larger projects, which is why they are preferred for commercial installations. Since these panels feature more solar cells, you can install fewer panels to generate the same energy output. With fewer panels required, less racking is also necessary, contributing to reduced equipment and installation costs.

Conversely, 60-cell panels are often lighter and simpler to install, making them more ideal for residential rooftop setups, which can lead to lower labor expenses. In larger commercial installations, it’s common to use cranes to lift the heavier 72-cell panels, making their weight less of a challenge.

Other Considerations When Selecting Solar Panels

When deciding on solar panels, the number of cells is not the primary consideration. Important factors include cost, aesthetics, warranty, efficiency, and durability when selecting the optimal solar panels for your house or business.

For cost evaluation, comparing 60-cell and 72-cell options using a cost-per-watt ($/W) metric is advisable. Much like evaluating properties by square footage when buying a home, examining $/W delivers insight into the total price of a solar installation based on output per watt. Using this metric allows for a standardized comparison of installations utilizing either 60-cell or 72-cell panels, even across varied system sizes.

Panels are available in an array of cell colors (dark blue, blue, black), backsheet hues (white, black), and frame finishes (silver, black, and white). If aesthetic appeal is crucial, ensure you review the panel design before finalizing your contract or seek photographs from your installer of prior projects featuring the same equipment to gauge how they will appear on your roof. There is also a selection of black-on-black solar panels available for a more sophisticated look; while they might come at a higher price, this investment can be worthwhile.

Combining 60 Cell and 72 Cell Solar Panels

Mixing and matching 60-cell and 72-cell panels is feasible if it suits your design.

For example, imagine you have a triangular roof with limited space at the top. You can place a range of 72-cell panels in the center and smaller 60-cell panels on the edges to achieve your desired system size.

However, it’s essential to be aware that different panels operate at varying voltages, and each must be paired with a compatible inverter.

If you plan to implement mixed panel sizes, it’s beneficial to consult an experienced design professional to avoid power loss or equipment damage.

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Solar panels are commonly referred to as individual rectangular units of solar cells, but the accurate term is "solar module." A solar panel consists of two rows of solar cells within a singular module.

Referring to them as solar panels has become widely accepted. Typically, these 'solar panels' or 'modules' host 60 solar cells—this has been a standard size for quite some time. The average dimensions for these units are slightly larger than 5 feet by 3 feet and weigh about 40 pounds. Over the years, the efficiency of the solar cells in these units has risen to exceed 20%. The distinctive squares of blue, dark blue, or black characterize the look of solar cells.

In recent years, 72-cell solar panels have emerged in the market. These panels feature 72 solar cells, resulting in a larger footprint than traditional panels. Although a 72-cell panel generally has a higher wattage, it does not imply it has superior efficiency compared to its 60-cell equivalent. It is vital to acknowledge this distinction when presented with a comparison between a 350-watt 72-cell panel and a 300-watt 60-cell panel; the lower wattage panel may actually provide better quality.

So, When Is It Appropriate to Use 72-Cell Solar Panels?

72-cell solar panels often yield a lower price per watt due to economies of scale. They cover a larger area but consist of only one back sheet, one junction box, etc. Frequently made with polycrystalline cells, their production costs are reduced, making them popular in commercial solar applications. Business owners benefit from improved pricing per watt, where cost-effectiveness is crucial. For homeowners, utilizing 72-cell panels can be ideal for outdoor installations, like ground mounts, where they can be arranged in stacks of two portrait or four to five landscape.

When deploying solar panels on rooftops, 72-cell options also become viable where conditions permit. For instance, if a 60-cell solar panel stands five feet tall while the available roof space measures 18 feet in height, 3 feet of additional room allows for an extra 36 cells per panel row if 72-cell panels are used.

You'll find 72-cell solar panels commonly implemented in New Jersey, typically recommended for ground mounts, commercial installations, or roofing setups that have surplus space. Always consult with your installer regarding the efficiency of the proposed solar panels to confirm whether the larger panel truly delivers greater value.

For inquiries about a 72 Cell Solar Module Manufacturer, please reach out to us.