Choosing solar panels is a huge step in the process of getting your solar energy system set up. So what are the best solar panels on the market? While there are different brands to choose from (some being more high quality than others), you can feel confident that if you choose a reputable solar panel installer, they’ll likely install a high quality solar panel that you’ll be happy with. A trusted professional will help you choose the best solar panels for your home and energy needs. In this blog post, we’re breaking down top rated solar panels and what to look for when choosing solar panels for your home.
What Are The Best Solar Panels For Home Use?
When choosing the best solar panels for home energy systems, the most important factors to consider are efficiency, durability, and manufacturer warranties. Many solar panels on the market perform similarly in ideal conditions, but how well they handle warranty claims is a crucial consideration. At Blu Solar, we always use the best available solar panels on the market at the time.
When we first got started in the solar energy space, we ran into major headaches with some manufacturers who were nearly impossible to get a hold of when warranty issues arose.
That’s why we only work with brands that offer a solid 25-year warranty on their solar panels and have a proven track record of standing behind their products – no matter what.
It’s also essential that your installer has experience dealing with that manufacturer’s warranties successfully. Flashy claims about their solar panels’ performance doesn’t mean much if the company won’t back them up when it matters. There are a handful of manufacturers we simply won’t work with for this reason, no matter how big their promises are.
Reliability matters more than marketing – and it’s our promise to ensure your investment is protected in the long run.
What Type of Solar Panels Are The Best?
When choosing solar panels, you first must decide if you want a ground mount or roof mount solar panel system. Certain types of solar panels and mounting systems are best for different types of roofs, properties, climates, and energy needs. It’s not always an apples-to-apples comparison, so what works great for one home may not be the best option for another home. An experienced solar installer local to you can help you determine which panels and mounting system is best for your specific home, location, and energy demands.
Brands of Top Rated Solar Panels
Investing in the highest quality, most efficient solar panels may come with a higher cost up front, but it often pays off with greater efficiency, output, and lifespan over time.
We’ve gathered the most important specifications to consider on some of the top rated solar panel brands to help you choose the best solar panels for your home.
Maxeon
- Model – Maxeon 6
- Power Output – 400W – 430W
- Efficiency – 22.8%
- Average Cost Per Panel – $300-$450
- Warranty – 40 years
REC
- Model – REC Alpha Pure
- Power Output – 380W – 410W
- Efficiency – 22.3%
- Average Cost Per Panel – $280 – $420
- Warranty – 25 years
Panasonic
- Model – EverVolt Series
- Power Output – 370W – 400W
- Efficiency – 21.7%
- Average Cost Per Panel – $270 – $400
- Warranty – 25 years
Canadian Solar
- Model – HiKu Series
- Power Output – 390W – 420W
- Efficiency – 20.9%
- Average Cost Per Panel – $250 – $370
- Warranty – 25 years
Jinko
- Model – Tiger Neo
- Power Output – 400W – 440W
- Efficiency – 21.8%
- Average Cost Per Panel – $260 – $390
- Warranty – 30 years
QCells
- Model – Q.Peak Duo Series
- Power Output – 350W – 400W
- Efficiency – 20.6%
- Average Cost Per Panel – $240 – $360
- Warranty – 25 years
Silfab Solar
- Model – Elite Series
- Power Output – 370W – 410W
- Efficiency – 21.4%
- Average Cost Per Panel – $270 – $390
- Warranty – 25 years
Meyer Burger
- Model – Glass Series
- Power Output – 380W – 400W
- Efficiency – 21.6%
- Average Cost Per Panel – $280 – $410
- Warranty – 25 years
What To Look For When Choosing The Most Efficient Solar Panels
Efficiency
Solar panel efficiency is often the most talked about factor in terms of choosing top rated solar panels, but it’s not the only factor (or even the most important) to consider. Solar panel efficiency measures how well a panel converts sunlight into electricity. The higher the efficiency, the more energy production created in less space. This is ideal for homes with limited roof space. However, slightly higher efficiency doesn’t always mean the panel is better. Real-world performance, reliability, and solid warranties matter more.
Warranty & Manufacturer Reputation
When choosing a solar panel brand, look for a reliable manufacturer that offers at least a 25-year performance warranty on their panels. Some brands have better customer service and warranty fulfillment than others, so make sure to do your research, read reviews, and choose a brand with a solid reputation.
Durability & Performance in Local Climate
Some solar panels are better suited for extreme heat, humidity, and snow. If you live in a climate with extreme temperatures or snowfall, look for solar panels that are tested for those temperatures and degradation rates to ensure they’ll withstand the climate and perform well long-term.
Cost vs. Long-Term Savings
If the price tag of solar panels scares you a bit, just remember that even if they cost more up front, they’ll likely provide greater savings in the long-run due to their efficiency, durability, and lower degradation rates. Again, make sure you are using a reputable manufacturer that stands behind their warranty.
Get The Best Solar Panels For Home Energy
If you’re ready to invest in the best solar panels for your home, start by partnering with a reputable installer. They’ll help you choose a top rated solar panel brand with a solid warranty, as well as help you determine what type of mounting system is best for your home.
Remember – warranties are everything in the solar energy world! Make sure any brand of solar panel you use has at least a 25 year warranty so you can feel confident that your investment is protected.
If you’re in the Denver, Colorado area, we’d love to partner with you to get your solar energy system set up. Say yes to saving money on your electric bills and making a positive impact on the environment today!
Request your free estimate today and our team will be in touch soon!
