Key Questions to Ask When Ordering 120 Half Cell Photovoltaic Panel Supplier

If you're looking to switch to solar, you may wonder if you have enough space to install the panels. This is a valid concern - solar panels are pretty big! Most home solar panels are about 5.5 feet x 3 feet and weigh roughly 40 pounds each.

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Most of the time, you won't see the size of solar panels expressed in feet. Instead, you'll see it's listed as the number of solar cells within a panel, with the most common solar panel sizes being 60-cell and 72-cell.

Let's take a closer look at the difference between these solar panel sizes and how to pick the right one for your home.

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Key takeaways

• The number of cells within a panel dictates its size - 60-cell and 72-cell panels are the most common solar panel sizes.

• 60-cell solar panels are the standard solar panel size for homes. They are usually 5.5 feet by 3 feet and weigh around 40 pounds.

• 72- cell panels are bigger, measuring around 6.5 feet by 3 feet, weigh about 50 pounds, and are typically considered commercial solar panels.

• An average solar panel system requires between 15 to 19 solar panels and takes up 260 to 340 square feet of space.

• Solar panel efficiency, output, a good warranty, and a trusted brand are more important than focusing on solar panel size.

How to measure solar panel size

Residential solar panels usually hold 60 cells, while larger 72-cell panels are used for commercial installations.

When you look at a solar panel, you&#;ll see it&#;s made up of small squares. Those squares are called solar cells, and they're the part of the panels that turn sunlight into electricity.

You'll see the size of a solar panel described by how many cells it has. 60-cell panels are usually laid out in a 6 by 10 grid and are the most popular option for home solar installations. You&#;ll typically find that 60-cell solar panels have output ratings between 350 and 400 watts and efficiency ratings between 17% and 19%.

72-cell panels, on the other hand, are usually arranged in a 6-cell by 12-cell grid. Because 72-cell panels hold more cells, they are bigger and can produce more solar power, making them popular for commercial installations. 72-cell panel wattage usually sits around 415 to 450 watts, but they can get into the 460-watt range. Their efficiency ratings are typically between 18% and 21%.

Half-cut solar cells. You may see some solar panels that have 120 cells or 144 cells. These are made using half-cut solar cells, which maximize how much of the panels&#; surface can turn sunlight into electricity. Panels with 120 half-cut cells are effectively the same size as 60-cell panels. In contrast, 144-cell panels are similar to 72-cell panels.

Solar panel dimensions and weight

60-cell panels are generally around 65 inches x 39 inches. In comparison, 72-cell panels are a bit larger, at about 80 inches by 40 inches.

Many people want to know the physical size of solar panels, not just how many cells the hold. The average 60-cell solar panel is about 65 inches by 39 inches, or 5.4 feet by 3.25 feet, and weighs around 40 to 50 pounds. The actual dimensions will vary from panel to panel, so we&#;ve listed a few for some of the most popular 60-cell panels on the market:

60-cell panel brand

Dimensions

Weight

LONGi

64.96 x 39.02 x 1.57 inches

40.13 lbs

QCells

65.7 x 39.4 x 1.26 inches

41.45 lbs

Trina

65.3 × 39.1 × 0.236 inches

51.8 lbs

Jinko Solar

65.55  x 39.45 x 1.38 inches

41.9 lbs

72-cell panels are larger, about 80 inches by 40 inches and about 1.5 inches tall. This works out to just about 6.5 feet by 3 feet for 72 cell panels, give or take a few inches. 72-cell modules generally weigh around 50 pounds. Here are the dimensions for 72-cell panels offered by top brands:

Brand

Size 72 cell panel

Weight 72 cell panel

LONGi

82.44x 40.86 x 1.38 inches

51.80 kg

QCells

79.33  x 39.37  x 1.38 inches

52.71 lbs

Trina

77.2 x 39.1 x 1.57 inches

49.6 lbs

Jinko Solar

79.06 x 39.45 x 1.57 inches

49.6 lbs

Are solar panels too heavy for my roof? A solar photovoltaic system can add over 700 pounds to your roof! Most roofs can withstand solar panel weight. But, if you have an old roof, consider replacing it before installing solar. It may also be a good idea to hire a professional for an inspection if you have an older home.

Pros and cons of 60-cell and 72-cell solar panels

Here&#;s a brief breakdown of the pros and cons of each panel size.

Panel

Pros

Cons

60-cell

More compact, can fit on smaller roof segments, harder to damage

Less output per panel (on average), installation requires more panels

72-cell

More output per panel, cheaper cost per watt

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Larger size means it doesn't fit well on smaller roof segments, heavier and harder to install

How many solar panels do you need?

&#;How many solar panels do I need to power my home?&#;; the age-old question with absolutely no easy answer. Based on the U.S.'s average energy consumption and sunlight, a residential solar system needs between 15 and 19 solar panels, which will require around 260 to 340 square feet of roof space.

The actual number of solar panels your specific home needs will depend on various factors like:

1. The amount of energy you use: The more solar panels you have on your roof, the more power they will produce. If your electricity usage is higher than your neighbor, your solar systems will vary in size because you will need more panels to cover your extra energy use. 

2. Sunlight available: If you live in sunny Arizona, your solar panel system can produce more power than panels on a roof in Illinois. 

3. Panel output: Solar panels with higher power ratings, or wattages, can produce more electricity. Using high-wattage panels, you can install fewer panels to meet your energy usage and eliminate your utility bill.

When you work with a solar installer to find the perfect number of panels to provide solar energy for your home.

How big are portable solar panels?

Once solar panels are installed on your roof, you don&#;t have to think much about their size anymore. 

But, with portable off-grid panels, solar panel size is one of the most important things to consider. Your RV might only have a small amount of roof space, or you might want something you can carry around and set up outside your campsite!

Because portable solar panels are made for travel, they tend to be smaller and have about 40 cells as opposed to 60. 200-watt portable panels are around 5 feet by 2 feet. 

You could also opt for flexible solar panels, which also measure about 5 feet by 2 feet. But flexible panels can bend and are much thinner than crystalline panels, so they&#;re easier for storage.

The flexible panel sold by Renogy, a popular portable solar brand, has 72 cells, but they&#;re smaller than the ones used in typical commercial panels. The panel is also substantially lighter, weighing just 10.8 pounds!

Folding solar panel kits are also an option for portable use. Foldable panels can be small enough to fit in your backpack, or large enough to power your RV - there's a wide range of options out there.

Factors that are more important than solar panel size

There are many factors that you should consider before the size of your solar panels, like solar panel efficiency and solar panel warranties. 

Solar panel efficiency

Solar panel efficiency is the percentage of light that strikes the surface of a panel that is converted into usable electricity. Modern solar panels have efficiencies that range from around 17% up to 22.8% in some premium models.

Highly efficient panels take up less space, which will allow you to fit more panels on your roof.

Solar panel warranties

There are two types of warranties that cover solar panels.

The first is the product warranty. This is the period during which you can ask the manufacturer to replace the solar panel should any problem arise. Nowadays, a product warranty of 12 years is standard, but more brands are starting to offer product warranties of 25 years.

The second type of warranty is a performance guarantee. Most mainstream panels have a 25-year production warranty, guaranteeing the panel will produce a certain level of output at every stage of the panel&#;s life. From the date your panels are installed up until the 25-year mark, the minimum guaranteed output of your panels will gradually decrease.

You can expect an output of close to 100% for year one, gradually down to between 80 and 92 percent for year 25. This loss in output is technically known as solar panel degradation. Some solar panel manufacturers, such as Canadian Solar, even offer a 30-year performance warranty on certain panel models.

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How to find the best solar panel size

The easiest way for homeowners to figure out the best solar panel size for their needs is to work with a dedicated solar installer. Solar installers will size your system based on your energy needs, coupled with your available roof space and the sunlight in your area. They can recommend a system size that can fit on your roof and reduce or eliminate your electric bill. 

For portable panels that will be drilled into an RV or need to fit on a boat, measuring where these panels can fit is important. But for a residential solar array, rest assured that your installer will get the right-sized panels for your space and energy requirements. You can find an installer in your area through the SolarReviews savings calculator to get one step closer to adding renewable energy to your roof.

Need a Solar System Contractor?

A solar energy system is a big investment. It&#;s important to find a quality contractor for your product selection and installation. As intimidating as that seems, with the right information, you can make the best decisions for your home, your energy needs and your wallet.

In this guide, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about solar power. Discover tips for hiring a professional and compare the pros and cons of using a local company versus a national one. For more information on pricing, use our solar panel installation cost guide.

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Frequently Asked Questions & Answers about Solar Energy

Solar technology and its benefits are complex, and a number of questions crop up as homeowners start the research process.

How Does Solar Power Work?

Residential, photovoltaic (PV) systems have cells (often made of silicon) that absorb energy from the sun. The cells turn the solar power into direct current electricity (DC). That energy goes through an inverter, which turns DC into alternating current (AC) energy. This powers the home.

What are the Benefits of Solar Panels?

• Energy Savings: They can reduce your utility costs by up to 50 percent, which can equal $30,000 in savings over a 20-year period. This will make you less vulnerable to increasing electricity rates.
• Carbon Footprint: They shrink your home&#;s carbon footprint by reducing pollutants and lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Learn more about the environmental benefits with this quick look at our article on &#;Going Green with Solar Panels&#;.
• Home Value: Studies show that, in most cases, they increase property values.

What is the Life Expectancy of Solar Panels?

Most panels have a life expectancy of 25 to 35 years. However, there are panels with shorter and longer life spans. Thin-film panels only have a life expectancy of 14 to 17 years. Some higher-cost panels have a projected lifespan of 40 to 50 years.

How Much Does it Cost with Installation?

With labor, permits and equipment, these systems cost $15,000 to $30,000. However, prices vary dramatically. A two-kilowatt setup averages $6,000 to $7,500 across the country. A ten-kilowatt setup averages $30,000 to $36,000.

How Do I Size My System?

You can get a ballpark estimate of the size you&#;ll need by analyzing a year&#;s worth of electric bills. Your monthly consumption of kilowatts per hour (kWh) will be alongside your charges.

For example, a 5kW system provides 7,000 kWh of energy per year. This covers more than half of the average households&#; energy consumption (11,000 kWh). For this size, you would need around 20 panels and 225 to 300 square feet of roof space.

An expert can help you find an accurate size but it helps to have an idea of what you need before you call for quotes. The number of panels you need will depend on:

• Your energy consumption.
• Percentage of consumption that you want to fuel with solar.
• Weather conditions in your area.
• Sun exposure on your roof.

You can also plug your address into Google&#;s Project Sunroof. Using data on your actual property and location, it will recommend a size, project your net savings and even predict your potential impact on the environment.

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How Extensive is Solar Panel Maintenance?

This equipment is very low-maintenance. Most systems only need an inspection and cleaning once per year. Solar panel maintenance costs $100 to $350. Annual inspections average $150 and cleanings range from $120 to $160.

In case of damage to the equipment, expect solar panel repairs to cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000.

Will a Solar System Raise Home Value?

In most situations, home value will increase. Energy efficient features are a top priority for home buyers, and this particular feature will save them money year after year. To learn about other efficient features, check out the resources in our home energy efficiency guide.

A study conducted by the Lawrence Berkley National Lab (LBL) found that an average-sized system can raise home value $15,000. In sunny regions like California, it will lift home value by a greater margin. In cloudier, rainy regions like Washington state, it will lift by a much smaller margin.

What Rebates and Incentives are Available?

There is a 30% federal investment tax credit (ITC) for homeowners who add panels to their homes. Individual states and municipalities have rebates and incentives that add to the savings. There are even utilities companies that offer incentives and credits. To learn about the incentives in your area, visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency.

In some cases, your contractor can apply for incentives and rebates for you. Be sure to sort out who is responsible so that you don&#;t miss out on savings.

Can This Be a DIY Installation Project?

It is possible to install solar panels yourself, especially with a home kit. However, there are many disadvantages:

• Roof work is extremely dangerous.
• You risk voiding equipment warranties.
• Fewer product options for DIY than with a pro.
• You&#;ll likely need an electrician to connect equipment.
• Improper installation could reduce efficiency, wasting potential savings.

Can I Finance This Project?

If you can pay for this project upfront, you will save more because there won&#;t be fees associated. However, if you want to get a head-start on utility savings and finance the project, you can get a solar loan or lease. If you lease, you won&#;t cbe responsible for maintenance costs.

What Other Residential Solar Equipment is Available?

There are solar water heaters of varying applications that improve energy efficiency for the home.

• For the pool: Installing a swimming pool heater costs $1,500 to $4,000, and a solar style will run high in that range at $3,000 to $4,000. Though the initial price of the unit is high, it will have no operating expenses versus the $100 to $600 operating expenses of other options.
• For the home: For heating water or air in the house, a solar water heater costs $2,000 to $5,000. These units reduce electricity bills and improve your carbon footprint. While regular water heaters cost less, solar styles will have lower operating costs and should pay for themselves within four to ten years. Learn more with this information on solar heating.

There are also solar screens which work like window shades, blocking thermal energy from entering. To learn more, check out our article on solar screens.

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Solar Panel Contractors vs Solar Companies

The choice between a local contractor and a large, nationwide company comes down to your priorities, financial needs and service expectations.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Local or Regional Companies

Pros Cons Examples Flexible product options Less reputation assurance PetersenDean Supports local industry Less business stability Direct Energy Solar Lower prices Baker Electric Personal experience Sullivan Solar Power Loan programs Familiarity with region

Nationwide Solar Company Pros & Cons

Pros Cons Examples Solar leases and loans More expensive SolarCity Established reputation Limited product options SunRun Greater business stability Fixed pricing Vivint Solar Outsourced work crews SunPower

How to Find & Hire Solar Panel Installation Contractors

Proper installation is vital to the panels&#; efficiency and longevity. Guarantee yourself maximum savings and a long-lasting investment by vetting professionals in your area.

• Do your research &#; Check out local professionals on reputable consumer review sites.
• Get multiple quotes &#; Solar companies use varying methods to determine system size and price, so it&#;s best to get at least three quotes from local professionals. Find out how their costs are estimated and question large variances.
• Don&#;t just go with the lowest quote &#; A low price may indicate lower quality work and products. This reduces your energy potential, cutting your savings year over year.
• Research the equipment &#; Familiarize yourself with your product options, including panels, inverters and mounting equipment. You may find that a more expensive product is worth the energy savings.
• Get the right permits &#; Discuss permit requirements with your contractor and find out if they will acquire them for you or if you have to apply for them yourself.
• Request a monitoring system &#; Many companies include a free monitoring service in their package, but not all do. Make sure to get the service that fits your needs if monitoring is a priority for you.
• Meet them in person &#; If possible, meet your contractor in person before hiring them. It&#;s important that you can trust and communicate with them as they work on your project and into the future, in case of performance issues or concerns you may have.

Questions to Ask Solar Installers Before Buying Solar Panels

These questions are key to securing a contractor you can trust.

• How long have you been in business?
• How many installations have you done?
• Do you have the proper licensing and insurance for this work?
• Will we sign a contract?
• Do you guarantee your work?
• Do you have a list of references and examples of your work?
• Will you explain the components of my system?
• Why do you stand by these particular products?
• What are the warranties associated with these products?
• How do you calculate the size of system I need?
• Do you use subcontractors and how do you vet/train them?
• Are you NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certified? This is a voluntary certification and is not required, but it is highly recommended.

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