Energy prices, like almost everything else these days, continue to rise. Those costs can impede your ability to perform the day-to-day lifestyle activities that you enjoy. One solution many homeowners consider to curb their dependence on the local power grid is to install a solar system on their property. However, when doing their research they’ll inevitability want to know how many solar panels are needed to run a home.

The two types of solar panel systems

Before we answer that question, however, a homeowner needs to understand the two types of solar panel systems. The first is a roof-mounted system. These are lightweight panels that sit atop your current shingles or aluminum roof. They’re great ways to maximize solar energy absorption.

The second type of solar panel system is more common in the country with larger yards or on commercial property. Ground-mount systems are often referred to as a solar system field and are a solution to consider if your power needs are extensive.

Analyzing your power

This brings us to our next point: analyzing your power demands. A home today consumes much more electrical power than a home from thirty or forty years ago. Often, a homeowner doesn’t realize how many devices they have that use electrical power until there is an outage.

First, just look around your home and count the number of items that are plugged into an outlet. Then, look at your electrical power usage over the past twelve months. Notice the peaks and the dips and average out the total wattage that your home uses per month.

Access to the sky

Next, you’re going to want to consider the line-of-sight access your home has to the sky. Do you have tall buildings or nearby trees that limit your home’s access? Often, even in the city, a roof-mounted system can capture solar energy for many hours throughout the day. Which direction does your home face? Does your roof primarily face the East or West? The answers to these questions can provide insight into our primary question of the day.