Before making the transition to solar energy, you probably have some logistical questions that need answering. One of the main questions that we get from interested homeowners is “how many residential solar panels do I need to power my home?”
The truth is there is no simple answer to that question as there are a variety of factors that need to be considered. Because no two homes and no two families are exactly the same, you will need to consult with an experienced solar panel installer to get an accurate estimate.
In this guide, we will discuss some of the key factors you need to consider and help you get a rough estimate on the number of solar panels your home will need.
How Many Residential Solar Panels Are Needed to Run a House?
There are several factors to consider when estimating how many panels you need. These include:
How much energy your home uses: The average home uses 877-kilowatt hours, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. If you use more, you will need more panels
The climate in your area: The more direct sunlight you get, the more effective your panels will be, and the fewer panels you’ll need.
What type of solar panels you buy: The greater the efficiency of the solar panels you purchase, the better they will be able to convert sunlight to electricity and the fewer you will need.
How Many Residential Solar Panels Will You Need for Your Home?
The average American home will need between 21 and 34 solar panels to provide power to it. Meaning you’ll need about 369 square feet of roof space to give the solar panels space. But your home may not be typical; Here’s another way to think about it. The average home in the US is about 1500 square feet and an energy bill of about 100 dollars. So for this house, you’d need between 15 and 18 panels. So using this information, you can get an idea of how many solar panels your house would need based on the size of your home and the price of your energy bill.
Once you have the answers to the physical dimension of your house and roof, the amount of power you use, the type of solar panel you are buying, and for what purpose you are using your solar energy, we can help you calculate how many panels you will need. Then, our experts will come to your home and consult with you to ensure we understand your needs and come up with a program that will perfectly fit your situation.
Get Help From The Experts You Can Trust
Solar Optimum is the leading solar installation company in the greater Los Angeles area. We have over a decade of experience installing solar panels, battery storage, and more across Southern California. Give us a call today and we’ll be happy to learn more about your home’s energy needs and provide you with a rough estimate.
