Are you looking for a solar panel and wondering which one is best to solve your home’s power needs? We have a working solution to your problems – a portable solar panel!
Instead of fixing these devices to your roof, you can conveniently place them anywhere and benefit from some alternative energy powering your devices.
Not sure if this device is best for you? This guide will analyze the factors you’ll need to consider when deciding if a portable solar panel is best for you.
1. Know The Types
Before you start shopping for any portable solar panels, you should know that there are three types – and there’s a huge difference between each:
- Monocrystalline
- Polycrystalline
- CIGS panels
The monocrystalline device is heavy and rigid, which means they are also efficient and durable. They can be found in many shapes as well.
Polycrystalline is similar to monocrystalline, except they are blue and are less efficient.
Last but not least is CIGS. CIGS is an abbreviation for Copper, Indium, Gallium, and Selenide. The panels are thin and flexible but not as durable as the previous two.
Your choice of portable solar panels should be based on where they’ll be primarily located and how long you intend to use them. For example, if you’re planning to keep your panels in your backyard and don’t anticipate a lot of traveling, monocrystalline will be best. However, if you see a lot of camping in your future and you need a device that’s the most easily transportable, we recommend CIGS.
2. Flexibility
Its flexibility is an important aspect, especially when carrying it around. You have to choose whether to fold it or not. A foldable one may seem like the ideal choice because it’s lightweight, and you can take it anywhere conveniently. But it also has a downside. It is less durable and needs to be replaced often. The other alternative is to get a device with the right shape and size for your needs. It would be more durable and, at the same time, heavy.
3. Weight
As far as portability is concerned, weight is a serious issue. Foldable portable panels are large and lightweight, while their smaller counterparts are sturdy and heavy. Choosing the right one involves finding a sweet spot between utility and weight. You see, heavier ones tend to be more durable.
In addition, if you are using a car to move a panel, weight is a non-issue. If not, you’ll want t make sure that weight does not drag you down.
4. Weather
This technology has been around for a while, but that doesn’t mean it’s immune to intense weather conditions. If you live in a very rainy climate, you will want to buy a device with a high-efficiency rate. That’s because there is little sunlight when it’s raining, and your device should still catch some rays on overcast days. Usually, the more expensive units can still absorb sunlight in the rain.
5. Price
With these devices, prices can be as low as $30 and as high as $1,000, and many other costs. The trick is finding the balance between utility and price.
Of course, this decision should also depend on how long you plan on using it. If you plan to use it a few times a year, you can select the lower-end device since you won’t be exposing it to wear and tear. But if you’re hiking and camping every chance you get, consider the more expensive options.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for the ultimate amount of solar power possible to provide energy for your entire home, you’ll need roof panels. However, portable panels come in handy for casual use, camping trips, and powering small devices.
Carefully consider each of these factors above, as each could make or break your experience.
