With the increasing focus on environmentally sustainable energy options, the interest in Los Angeles solar panels. California has also actively encouraged homeowners to adopt this sustainable energy option. However, before you decide to install solar panels on your home, it is essential to know how much energy you will need and how many solar panels will be necessary to provide enough power for your home.
Calculating Energy Usage
The first thing you need to do before you can determine the number of solar panels necessary is to know how much energy you and your family are using right now. Keep in mind, this number can vary from one home to another. Two families can live in a similarly sized home, but their habits can dictate how much energy they use. For instance, if you have a large family and everyone has more energy demands, then your usage might be higher than a single individual who is not home as much.
Start by checking your last year of energy bills. This process will give you an idea of how much energy you are using and when you use the most. After all, changing seasons can impact the amount of energy your home uses.
How Much Can Your Solar Panels Produce
Now that you know about how much energy your home is using, it is essential to determine how many solar panels will be necessary to produce that amount of energy. For instance, 12 solar panels in your system will produce an average of 4,200 kWh annually. More panels will produce more energy, but that also requires more space on your roof.
If your roof is small, then there might not be enough space for the solar panels, so it is essential to know exactly what type of space you have to work with upon your roof.
It is important to note that if your goal is to completely offset your power bill with Los Angeles solar panels, then you will likely need 28-34 solar panels to cover 100% of your home’s energy use.
Choosing the Right Solar Panels
You might have room for all those solar panels, but it is equally necessary that you get quality panels to achieve the best solar output and efficiency. Monocrystalline photovoltaic (PV) solar panels are considered the most efficient, but that efficiency comes with a price. These panels have that efficiency because they absorb more light than more conventional solar panels. These PV panels also tend to take up less roof space.
Still, there are a variety of options that can allow you to increase your sustainable energy usage over time. Our team is ready to assist you in determining how many solar panels your family needs and what type of system would work best for your roof. Contact us today for an assessment of your Los Angeles solar panel options.
Signal Alarms and Electric is an electrical contractor in Southern California providing full capacity electrical contracting services for new construction, renovations, tenant improvements, service upgrades, exterior, interior and landscape lighting, retrofits and service installations in the Southern California/Los Angeles County area.