How Many Solar Panels Does the Typical Home Need?

The Sonoran Desert sun of the greater Phoenix area is ideal for harnessing abundant solar power. With almost every day being sunny, it’s no wonder that many homeowners in the area are considering solar panels as a way to reduce their monthly electricity bills and shrink their carbon footprint. So, how many solar panels does the typical house in the Valley of the Sun require to meet its energy consumption needs? Let’s explore this question in detail.

Calculating Energy Needs

To determine the number of solar panels required for the average house, the first step is to consider your household’s energy consumption. This figure varies depending on factors such as the square footage of your house, the number of occupants, and the energy efficiency of appliances and HVAC systems. For a rough estimate, the average annual electricity consumption for a typical American household is around 10,400 kWh.

Solar Coverage

The Valley of the Sun receives an incredible amount of sunshine with approximately 300 sunny days per year. The amount of solar energy available is measured typically in peak sun hours. On average, your home receives about six to seven peak sun hours per day. This is a crucial factor in determining the number of solar panels needed.

Panel Efficiency

Solar panels have different efficiency ratings, which indicate how effectively they convert sunlight into electricity. In our area, it’s common to find solar panels with efficiencies ranging from 15% to 22%. Higher efficiency panels produce more electricity per square foot, so the choice of panels impacts the number needed.

Sizing the Solar Panel Array

To determine the size of the solar array (the total wattage of solar panels needed), you can use the following formula:

Total wattage = Annual energy consumption multiplied by daily sunlight hours divided by panel efficiency

Total wattage = 10,400 kWh (365 days x 6.5 hours) divided by 0.18 = 8,955 watts or about 9kW

Panel Count

With a 9kW solar array, you can then estimate the number of panels needed. In this case, you’d need approximately 15 to 23 panels to generate 9kW of power. A typical 2,000 square-foot home needs about 19 panels, but the ultimate number of solar panels depends on your energy consumption and other factors.

Cool Blew Solar Panel Expertise

It’s essential to consult with a locally owned solar installer to get a precise estimate tailored to your family’s specific circumstances and energy goals. Call your highly rated local solar panel installers today at Cool Blew Solar for a free quote at 623-234-2836.

FAQ's

Is Solar Energy Expensive?

The size of your panel installation and the needs of your home will affect your costs. The average net cost of a 5.69kW system is $13,838 cash after 30% rebate (according to solar-estimate.org). An average-sized system can cost up to $35,000. Larger installations will require more hardware, planning and construction time. This can further increase costs. While solar panels are expensive, they have many distinct benefits. Cool Blew Electric & Solar’s experts can assess your situation and goals and recommend a cost-effective system to meet your needs.

How Much Can I Save By Installing Solar Panels?

An average-sized system (5 kilowatts) can reduce up to 50% of your monthly electricity bill. A 5.69kW system would offset 100% of your energy usage if your typical monthly bill is $138. Over a period of 20 years, these savings can add up to $30,000, based on your location and energy usage.

How Long Would It Take to Recoup My Solar Investment by Solar Energy Savings?

With a 5.69kW Solar system you would recoup your savings in 7 years and 2 months but with continuous Utility increases every year your Return and Investment will be much sooner.

What is a Solar Lease Program?

The Solar Lease Program has been one the most popular option that homeowners have chosen over the years. Solar Lease programs gives homeowners the opportunity to take advantage and put Solar on their homes and a guaranteed savings from their Utility for little to no money out of pocket. Most Leases are 20 year power guarantee from the solar provider and includes fixed monthly payments, no repair cost, fully insured and warrantied for the life of the system.

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