Solar panels help to reduce energy costs, reduce emissions, and above all improve the efficiency of a home.  Solar panels are part of a complex system designed to meet the power draw of an average home.  When making the decision on your solar panel system, consider the size and durability of each model.  The power output can vary depending on the technology(single crystal, thin film, or polycrystalline) but in general, a two square foot panel will output 50 watts, while an eight square foot panel will output 190 watts.

Other than the panels themselves, the second main component of a solar panel system is the inverter.  An inverter converts DC to AC power and is required because the power coming from the panel array is direct current while a home circuit only accepts alternating current.  Inverters must be judged on their automatic shutoff capacity, battery charging capabilities, and surge capacity.

An inverter actually runs off a personal battery bank to operate and must be able to automatically turn off when the load drops so it doesn't drain the power source. In a similar vein, the inverter must be able to pass a portion of the panel power towards recharging the battery bank.  Another factor to consider is that all appliances have a start-up surge, especially noticeable in larger devices, the inverter must be able to handle this surge, multiple surges if possible.

Every solar panel system utilizes a large array of batteries to store and regulate power flow to the home, but a charge controller must be in place to prevent damage from occurring.  If the battery is full then voltage regulation begins and the power is cut off.  Look for controllers featuring maximum power point tracking.  This technology is in place to optimize panel energy production by changing charge rates at specific voltages.  The controller should feature battery temperature compensation, this system modifies the charge rate in relation to temperature.

System Investment

Solar panel systems offer homeowners more than a reduced carbon footprint, they also provide a sense of independence from utility barons.  It is important to take your energy requirements and budget into consideration or you will risk getting carried away in the project.  The solar panel cost may vary , but the majority of the cost originates in the solar panels themselves, around 70 percent followed by labor, inverter, and battery costs.  Its often less expensive to install the units at the time of construction.  Depending on the system, the owner will have to invest in a battery bank to store excess power.

The overall cost is often offset by rebates, tax credits and tax exemptions.  The federal government offered a 30 percent tax credit on solar panels installed between 2006 and 2007.  In addition to federal programs, individual states also offer incentive programs.