Hey everyone! I'm new here and I've decided to set up a solar power system for my new home. I'm considering purchasing some pallets of solar panels, and I've found 350w panels priced around $60-$70 each (manufactured in 2020). I'm wondering what I should consider when comparing these older 350w panels to more modern higher wattage models (like 440w and above). Aside from the space they take up, what downsides should I be aware of?
6 Answers
Honestly, if you have the space, I'd suggest going for larger panels since they can generate more power. But keep in mind that bigger panels, like the 400w ones, can get pretty heavy—around 65 lbs—which makes them tougher to handle solo when you're installing them.
If you're planning to use micro inverters, having smaller panels means you can fit more on your roof for the same power. Just be cautious, though; a lot of micro inverters have watt limits, so using larger panels may not be the best move. I wouldn’t want to deal with 550w panels on my roof—better to reserve those for ground mounts instead!
One thing to remember is that the installation cost can be higher when using 350w panels to match the output you'd get from 440w panels. Depending on your setup, that could add up.
With a similar power-to-surface ratio, the 350w panels might actually be easier to manage when you're working alone up on a roof. Just remember you might need a few extra screws and nuts during installation!
That's a great tip! Plus, I landed a deal for $0.18 per watt for pallets, and I have plenty of space on my metal barn roof. Just trying to calculate all those added costs!
Typically, you’ll want to ensure that the white side of the panels is facing down when installing! Happy to help!
If you're doing the work yourself, weigh the panel sizes carefully. I installed eight 430w panels on my RV, and I found their size manageable on my own. I initially thought about getting 6x 610w panels, but I’m so glad I didn’t—they would have been impossible for me to handle alone! Plus, the 430w ones fit perfectly in my SUV, but that might not be a problem for you.
For sure, I’m actually planning to handle most of the installation myself! Good to know!
Exactly, it makes sense to stick with the sizes your inverters can handle! Plus, big panels can be tricky on roofs.