Choosing The Right Solar Panels For Your Tiny House
Everyone wants to live a sustainable and environmentally friendly life, but many people need more space. Tiny houses aren’t your average living quarters; they’re as small as they come! There are a lot of considerations that need to be made in order for tiny house owners not only to live comfortably but also to maintain their minimalistic lifestyle. One of the most important choices is deciding on the right solar panels. Here are some tips to guide you in choosing the right solar panels for your small house:
1. It’s All About the Warranty
The solar panels you’ll purchase will come with a warranty, which may vary depending on your provider. However, the longer the warranty period, the more significant your savings. For example, some solar companies offer a two-year warranty, while others will go up to 10 years. A 20-year warranty is ideal for small houses or tiny homes concentrating on generating pure energy.
A good warranty gives you peace of mind knowing that you are protected from any warranty claims in case of any issues with your solar panel.
2. Size Matters
Most solar panels are about 12″ x 24″ so make sure to measure the solar panel size before purchasing a certain model. If you need extra space for your tiny house, consider installing a standard-sized panel instead of a micro one. Micro ones will cover less space than a standard-sized one; thus, you may be stuck with an item unsuitable for your house area.
Micro panel providers offer larger panels but are considered specialty products rather than standard one. However, it’s important to note that the larger the panel size, the more expensive it will be. Therefore, before buying a micro or standard-sized solar panel, consider how much space you need for your house.
3. Panels Turn Off At Night
You can use an inverter to power your appliances from solar panels. Most people select panels that can provide energy throughout the day and night. The problem is that some solar companies only make their panels work during daytime hours, and they turn them off after sundown. This can pose a problem because many people depend on electricity during nighttime for basic tasks and appliances. Therefore, you must install a backup power system if you need that utility during nighttime.
4. Pick A Panel Type That Fits Your Needs
The type of panel you choose will depend on the size of your house, your needs, and the number of people in the house. For example, suppose you have three generations living in one tiny home. In that case, it makes sense to purchase a larger-sized panel that is capable of providing energy for all three generations at once when needed. A large-sized panel is capable of generating more energy than a small one.
You can install multiple solar panels to accommodate your needs and preferences. Still, it’s ideal if you buy the ones that are standard in size because they are easier to install and maintain and cheaper! Another factor to consider is the number of appliances that your tiny house will have. The more appliances you have, the larger the solar panel size you should purchase.
5. Determine The Wattage Rating For Your Panels
The wattage rating for your panels will depend on how many watts your tiny house requires per day. For example, if you need 100 watts of power to operate the a/c units, you’ll need a higher-watt rating panel of around 400 watts for every square foot. Smaller panels will also cost more because larger ones are considered special products that are pricier than standard-sized ones.
6. Consider The Panel Manufacturer
It’s important to note that the panel manufacturer is one of the most essential factors in producing your solar panels. As much as possible, choose a company that manufactures high-quality panels and has a good reputation for producing them. The company should also have a long-standing record, meaning they’ve been in business for a while.
7. Consider The Warranty And Reputation Of The Panel Manufacturer
The warranty will depend on the manufacturer, and shorter warranties mean the company is less reliable and more likely to fail in future periods. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that you are choosing your solar panels from such a reputable company. Their reputation alone will give you peace of mind, which you need when choosing products for your tiny house.
8. Decide On The Type Of Panel You Want
Flexible and semi-flexible solar panels are the most popular ones because they can be used in different situations and applications. These panels can also be easily installed due to their flexibility, which is hard for more traditional panels. However, these flexible solar panels are not meant for use outside homes since they cannot withstand extreme weather conditions such as wind and rain. Traditionally placed solar panels are durable but need to conform to tiny house designs better. Solar companies understand this problem, so they created portable solar cells that can be placed anywhere on your home’s roof.
9. Consider The Installation Process
The installation process is another important factor to consider when installing solar panels for your tiny house. However, if you install a standard sized panel, you will not have any problems with installation. If, however, you are putting up a larger panel than your house’s area, it’s essential to research the city laws and codes that might require you to get an electrician’s help.
10. Get A Quote From Several Companies
The last thing you want to do when considering solar panels for your tiny house is to consider one company and buy from them exclusively. You should compare and contrast a few different companies. Then, choose the right one for you and your household.
Conclusion
The best option in terms of solar panels that are ideal for tiny houses is going to depend on your needs, budget, space, number of people in the house, electricity needs etc. The type of panel will also depend on the needs of your tiny house. You will also have to determine whether or not you want standard or special-sized panels.
However, the most important thing to consider when purchasing solar panels is finding a reputable company with high-quality products that comes with a warranty. It’s also best to purchase from companies offering free shipping services so you won’t have to pay more for shipping costs.