If you’re in the market for a solar panel system, you’ll quickly realize that there are a lot of specifications to consider. Choosing the right solar panel can be confusing, but it’s important to understand the different factors involved. This guide will help you make sense of solar panel specifications and figure out which one is best for your needs.
Cell Types
There are two main types of solar cells: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline cells are made from a single crystal of silicon, while polycrystalline cells are made from multiple crystals of silicon. Monocrystalline cells are more efficient than polycrystalline cells, but they are also more expensive to produce. As a result, most commercial solar panels use polycrystalline cells. However, monocrystalline panels are often used in residential applications where space is limited. In addition to these two main types of solar cells, there are also thin-film solar cells, which are made from layers of semiconducting materials that are just a few micrometers thick. Thin-film solar cells are less efficient than crystalline solar cells, but they are cheaper to produce and can be flexible, making them well-suited for a variety of applications.
Static Snow Load
Static snow load is the weight of snow that is resting on solar panels. This can damage the panels or make them less efficient. The amount of static load depends on the type of panel, the pitch of the roof, and the location. For example, a panel on a south-facing roof in a sunny location will have less static load than a panel on a north-facing roof in a shady location. Solar panels are designed to withstand certain levels of static load, but it is important to check with the manufacturer to be sure. In some cases, it may be necessary to add supports or reinforcement to prevent damage from snow accumulation.
Static Wind Load
The static wind load of a solar panel is the amount of force that the wind exerts on the panel when it is not in motion. This is different from the dynamic wind load, which is the force exerted on the panel when it is moving. The static wind load is usually much higher than the dynamic wind load, so it is important to take this into account when determining the strength of a solar panel. There are various factors that can affect the static wind load of a solar panel, such as the material used, the size of the panel, and the shape of the panel. In general, thicker and more rigid panels can withstand higher static wind loads than thinner and more flexible panels. Solar panels are typically made from glass or plastic, which are both strong materials that can resist high levels of force. However, if a solar panel is not properly secured, it can be damaged by high winds. This is why it is important to make sure that panels are properly anchored to prevent them from being blown away by strong winds.
There you have it! These are just a few solar panel specifications you have to consider when you are choosing a solar panel. To learn more, contact us at Solar Energy Solutions of America. We provide many services including pool solar service, installation, and repair.