Solar System. Solar power is one of the most popular sources of renewable energy available today. This is one of the best energy sources because it is clean and free. Solar panels are popular among a lot of people because they are eco-friendly and cheap. When you install solar panels, you will have power for many years.
Two common solar panels you will face are 24V and 12V; these are the most popular solar panels than other solar panels. But before moving forward with purchasing it, you need to understand its functionalities, uses, features, and benefits. So, in this article, we will discuss the difference between a 12V panel and a 24V solar panel and, which one fits the best for you. 12v vs. 24v solar panels: Let’s get into it!
How is Solar power decisive?
Each solar panel accessible in the market is marked with definite watts and volts. These values represent how much power of energy is produced by that particular panel alone. Watts defines the power value and helps you to understand the electricity load that a solar panel could cover.
On the other side, the volts value tells you about the electrical pressure needed to keep the current flowing in the area. Power is calculated by multiplying the voltage rating and the resulting current output. After all, a higher voltage system doesn’t need to involve a greater watts value either.
Thus, it is advised to check your house’s total power consumption and energy needs before going forward with the solar installation.
What is a 12V Solar Panel?
A 12V is perhaps the most popular type of solar system available nowadays. It provides 12V used to power batteries and devices that are also 12V. Usually, you will find solar panels that have around 36 solar cells, each cell producing 0.5V. Many 12V solar panels usually have a rectangular form, but the solar panel size can vary, though.
12V solar panels are popular and adaptable for set-apart homes, fishing boats, caravans, etc. They usually can provide enough power for cars, streetlights, trolling motors, phones, laptops, etc. You can also use the same amount of power system to light up your garden temporarily.
It is a portable independent power system, that consumes sun rays that are converted into electricity using an electrical converter.
Advantages of a 12V solar panel
Pricing. Buying 12V solar panels will save you money. The cost acquired in purchasing a 12V solar system is way cheaper than the cost of paying a monthly electricity bill.
Less heat loss. A 12V solar system is concisely packed with all its elements, therefore reducing the chances of heat loss.
Minimal Maintenance. Even with minimal maintenance, 12V solar panels are lower to give you any technical problems.
12V Solar Panels are light in weight and easy to transport.
The majority of devices and batteries are customized for a 12v power supply; thus, 12v solar panels production is high in factories.
Emergency Charging. If you run out of battery power, you can combine the battery bank with your vehicle’s alternator and charge it.
12V solar panels are ideal for small buildings and DIY projects.
Disadvantages of a 12V solar panel
A 12V solar panel has a lower voltage, which means it will lose more heat.
12V solar panels are only used to power appliances with 12V.
What is a 24V solar panel?
A 24V solar system is pretty much similar to a 12V solar system and can be used in different places, despite their bigger size; the 24V solar system just employs double the number of solar cells to produce more power (a total of 72 solar cells).
The 24V panel can be used either in 24V or 12V appliances. A 24V solar panel has a higher voltage system that varies between 1500-2000 volts.
Therefore, as a result of a higher voltage, 24V solar panels are ideal for large off-grid houses, farms, apartments, and other bigger places where electricity is needed in big amounts. Also, 24V solar panels are ideal for commercial spaces with a big amount of electricity running all day, like hotels, banks, and hospitals.
A 24V panel has longer durability than a 12v solar panel; thus, it will produce more electricity for your home and other appliances. 24V is usable with bigger appliances because there is no limit to the size of the appliances that are on a 24V solar system.
Advantages of a 24V solar panel
Higher voltage production. 24V solar panels have 72 solar cells, each cell has a capacity of 0.5V. Thus, each panel can produce 32-36V.
24V solar systems are used for appliances with diverse voltages, both 12v and 24v.
Heat loss is minimal as the reason for its compatibility nature. In comparison with a 12V solar system, a 24V solar system is more efficient as a result of its heat retention properties.
The installation of a 24V solar system is cheaper on a large scale.
Thereafter, the current that is provided is half of the power provided, the voltage drop is low.
Disadvantages of a 24V solar panel
24V system is more expensive to buy than 12V solar systems.
12v vs. 24v solar panels: The difference between them and which one is right for you?
As we’ve spoken about what are 12V solar systems and 24V systems and what are their advantages and disadvantages, we’ve gained pretty much knowledge about them. So, now, let’s take a look at their differences!
Battery compatibility
With the battery rating, your solar panel should vary. A 12-Volt panel should perfectly be connected to a 12-Volt battery. Like with a 24-Volt panel. A 24-Volt panel should be connected to a 24-Volt battery.
However, 24-Volt batteries are not available in markets as 12-Volt batteries. Thus, you can instantly create a 24-Volt battery by combining two 12-Volt battery devices in a series connection.
Inverter compatibility
Usually, solar panels create DC (Direct Current). However, the utmost of our appliances and the power grid systems are adaptable to AC (Alternative Current). To convert DC power into Alternative Current, you must install a solar inverter.
You need to install a 12-Volt converter, with a 12-Volt solar panel. Alike with a 24-Volt solar panel, you need to install a 24-Volt converter.
Charge controller compatibility
Solar charge controllers monitor the power transferred to the battery bank from the panel system. Charge controllers help in protecting that an increased output voltage doesn’t overcharge the battery during the daytime, and to be drained back to panels during the night.
Before moving ahead with the solar installation, you need to check if the 12-Volt panel is connected to a 12-Volt charge controller.
Range and pricing
12-Volt solar panels and 24-Volt solar panels can be purchased at different prices depending on Watt values and the brand.
The average price range for a 24-Volt system with benefits like assurance, installation, etc., will cost you about $150-$350. On the other side, the general price range for the 12-Volt system will cost you less, around $110-$140.
Similarities between 12-Volt solar panels and 24-Voltage panels (12V vs. 24V solar panels)
So, now, that we’ve seen differences between 12V and 24V panels, let’s take a look at their similarities!
They both have low heat loss. Their adaptable components help to reduce heat loss in the system.
They are both 12-Volt and 24-Volt panels that are portable. They are not heavy in weight and therefore are easy to transport.
They are both cheap. 12-Volt on the retailment and 24-Volt in installing on a large area.
They both provide power used to charge our appliances. Regardless, at home, banks, or hospitals.
FAQ
Is 24V solar better than 12V?
It’s all up to you and your energy needs. However, a 24-Volt battery will reduce the number of amps of energy flowing through the system every hour. It avoids the battery from draining and therefore performs better.
What is the advantage of 24V over 12V?
A 24-Vols system is advantageous, as you can use small diameter wire and lower amperage up doubly.
Are the 12v and 24V solar panels same?
12V or 24V Solar panels can be useful in different units. An inventor is a tool for converting solar power into electricity. Solar panels of a 12V system require an inverter of a 12V, and 24V systems require a 24V inverter.
Can I use a 24V Solar panel on a 12V system?
Yes. The voltage doesn’t concern the panel, its electricity is produced by the circuit.
Conclusion
As we said, it’s all up to you and your energy needs. But choosing a solar system can be a little bit confusing. If you have a large area, a big off-grid house, or a farm, you can easily select the 24v system. But for smaller appliances, such as refrigerators, laptops, etc., choose a 12v system.
I hope we helped you with your questions!
