Thinking about switching to solar but not sure where to begin? Don’t worry—you’re not alone. One of the biggest questions we hear from homeowners is how to choose the right solar panel. With so many brands and styles out there, it can feel like a lot to figure out.
The good news? You don’t need to be a solar expert to make a smart choice! Once you understand the basics—like how solar panels work and what to look for—you’ll feel much more confident. In this blog, we’ll break it all down into simple steps to help you choose the best panel for your home.
1. Efficiency: Getting More From the Sun
Let’s start with efficiency. This just means how well a solar panel turns sunlight into electricity. The better the efficiency, the more power your system can produce from the same amount of sun.
Why does this matter? Panels with higher efficiency:
- Give you more power using less space
- Are great if your roof is on the smaller side
- Can save you more money over time
If you’re asking how to choose the right solar panel, efficiency is a great place to start. Monocrystalline panels are the top choice for most homes—they’re sleek, powerful, and work well even on cloudy days.
2. Durability and Warranty: Built to Last
Solar panels are a long-term investment, so you’ll want something that can hold up through all kinds of weather—hot summers, snowy winters, heavy rain, and more.
Durability means the panels won’t wear out or break easily. A good warranty gives you peace of mind if anything goes wrong. Most panels come with a 25-year product warranty—plus, your installer should offer a workmanship warranty to cover the installation itself.
At Mack Solar and Roofing, we offer both: 25 years for the panels and 10 years for the installation. That way, you know you’re protected from start to finish.
3. Cost vs. Quality: Don’t Just Look at Price
When you’re shopping for solar, it’s easy to focus on price—but that’s only part of the story.
Cheaper panels might seem like a good deal at first, but they often don’t last as long or produce as much energy. That means they could cost you more in the long run.
Higher-quality panels might cost a bit more upfront, but they:
- Work better
- Last longer
- Save you more money over time
If you’re wondering how to choose the right solar panel for your budget, think about the full picture—not just the sticker price.
4. Will the Panels Work With Your Roof?
Not every roof is the same, and not every solar panel fits every home. When choosing a panel, you’ll want to think about how well it will work with your roof.
Here are a few things to check:
- Size and shape of your roof: Smaller roofs might need more efficient panels.
- Sunlight: Does your roof get full sun, or is it partly shaded by trees or other buildings?
- Direction: South-facing roofs usually get the most sun in Cherry Hill.
- Roof material: Some roofs need special mounting systems.
A local installer can help you figure out what will work best and make sure your system is safe, effective, and built to last.
5. Smart Features and New Tech
Today’s solar panels aren’t just glass and wires—they can be pretty smart. Some panels now come with features that boost performance or give you better control over your system.
For example:
- Bifacial panels collect sunlight from both sides for more energy.
- Smart panels let you track your energy use and system performance in real-time.
- Battery backups store energy so you can use it at night or during power outages.
If you’re planning to grow your solar system over time or want to stay ahead with technology, these are great features to ask about.
6. Think About the Environment
Going solar is already a big win for the planet, but you can take it one step further by choosing panels that are made with care for the environment.
Here’s what to look for:
- Panels made with recycled or low-impact materials
- Brands that use cleaner manufacturing processes
- Panels that can be recycled at the end of their life
Choosing greener panels means you’re helping the environment in more ways than one—not just by using clean energy but by supporting better practices from start to finish.
7. Choose the Right Installer
Even the best panels won’t perform well if they’re installed poorly. That’s why picking the right local company matters just as much as picking the right panel.
A good installer will:
- Know how to work with Cherry Hill homes and roof types
- Make sure your panels are set up for maximum sunlight
- Handle all the permits, rules, and utility paperwork for you
- Help you qualify for state rebates and financing options
At Mack Solar and Roofing, we’re proud to be a trusted local company with decades of experience and top industry certifications. We’ll walk you through every step and treat your home like it’s our own.
How to Choose the Right Solar Panel
Figuring out how to choose the right solar panel doesn’t have to be hard. Focus on what matters most: efficiency, durability, value, roof fit, and your goals. With the right team and the right panels, you can start saving money, using clean energy, and powering your home with confidence.
Still have questions? Want to know which panels are best for your roof?
Schedule your free inspection with Mack Solar and Roofing today. We’ll check out your roof, explain your options, and help you build a solar system that fits your home—and your future.
