What are common sizes and weights of modern solar panels for homes?
If you’re doing research on powering a home or business with solar, you might be wondering, “How large is a solar panel?” This article will answer that question along with dimensions, weight, and examples of solar panel installations.
How big are solar panels?
The standard sized panel used on a residential solar project is 65 inches by 39 inches or a little bigger than 5 feet by 3 feet (17.55 square feet). The exact size varies by manufacturer, but this is a common or safe measurement to use in your calculations of how many solar panels will fit on your roof.
Solar panels installed on homes are generally made up of 60 photovoltaic (PV) solar cells, arranged in a 10 x 6 manner.
For a commercial solar application, solar panels are normally a bit bigger, measuring 78 inches by 39 inches or 21.125 square feet.
Solar panels installed on businesses or solar farms are made up of 72 PV solar cells which allows them to generate more energy.
How much do solar panels weigh?
Most residential solar panels weigh around 40 pounds each, plus or minus a few ounces depending on manufacturer. Below is a breakdown of 60-cell solar panel weight by popular manufacturers:
SolarWorld – 40 to 47 lbs
LG – 38 lbs
Hanwha QCELLS – 41 lbs
Trina – 41 lbs
SunPower – 33 to 41 lbs
Canadian Solar – 40 to 51 lbs
Kyocera – 42 to 44 lbs
Can my roof support the added weight of solar panels?
The roofs on most newer homes can handle significantly more than the average 3 pounds per square foot of weight from a solar panel installation. However, if you have an older roof or are concerned about whether your roof can support the additional weight of a solar power system, talk to a roofing company. A roof inspection can help you determine whether the additional weight of solar panels are a viable option for your home.
Still have questions about solar?
Click the links below for more in-depth answers to frequently asked questions about having solar panels installed on your home or business.
Solar Power FAQs: Will The Electricity Meter Run Backwards When I Go Solar?
Solar Power FAQs: Do Solar Panels Work On Cloudy Days?
Solar Power FAQs: Is Going Solar Worth It In Texas?
Solar Power FAQs: What’s The Best Solar Warranty?
Solar Power FAQs: Are Solar Panels Hail Proof?
Solar Power FAQs: Where Do The Batteries Go?
Ready to go solar in Texas?
Alba Energy is proud to be one of the premier solar installers in Texas, with offices across the state. Alba Energy has completed hundreds of solar panel installations on both homes and businesses, helping our customers save thousands of dollars on electricity costs. Thanks to our SMART Solar Finance Programs, there’s a good chance you can install solar panels and pay less for the system than you currently pay for electricity. Your monthly energy savings pays for the system!
Contact your local office to schedule a FREE solar consultation, and a representative will walk you through the available options in your zipcode and help you understand the plan that makes the best financial sense!
Alba Energy Locations
Austin | Dallas | Houston | McAllen | San Antonio
KEEP IN TOUCH
