How Many Solar Panels Can I Fit on My Roof?
When you’re installing solar panels for any property for the first time, there are many factors you must consider. One of the most important considerations is how many solar panels you can fit on your roof. After all, you want your solar array system to produce enough energy to make the installation worth it.
Thankfully, professional solar panel installers will calculate exactly how many panels are needed to produce the optimum energy output and stay within your budget.
Let’s review the factors determining how many solar panels fit on your roof.
How Many Solar Panels Can I Fit on My Roof? – Solar Panel Sizes
Solar panels can differ in size depending on the brand and use purpose; the number of solar panels that will fit on your roof depends on which type of solar panels you decide to purchase. The average area of a residential solar panel is 17.62 square feet, but you can likely find smaller or larger options by consulting your local solar company.
The size of solar panels is determined by their material, wattage requirement, and electricity output. If you need more output, you’ll need solar panels with a larger surface area.
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How Many Solar Panels Can I Fit on My Roof? – Roof Size
A critical factor to consider is the size of your roof. Since the average solar panel has an area of 17.5 square feet, you can easily calculate the number of solar panels that will fit on your roof if you know their size.
To get a broad estimate, divide the open roof space by 17.5 or the exact dimensions of the panels you plan to use if you have that information. Of course, there is more that goes into system design and solar panel selection than that, but this is a good way to get a basic understanding of how many panels your system may support.
Note that you should divide the open roof space, not the total roof space, by 17.5 (or the size of your solar panels).
It is not practical for solar panels to cover every inch of your roof, and most solar panels are not designed to touch the roof’s edge. Your roof may be obstructed by materials, a chimney, or other extrusions. Thus, you won’t be able to place solar panels in these areas.
As one of the premier solar companies in Houston, our team of solar experts at Sunshine Renewable Solutions is here to help you determine how many solar panels will fit on your roof and design the best system for your home.
Get a quote from us today!
