Best Solar Panels for Your Home – How to Choose
Switching to solar energy is a big step towards cutting energy bills and living more sustainably. But how do you decide which solar panels are right for your home? With so many options available, it’s essential to make an informed decision that suits your energy goals, roof type, and budget.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from what influences your choice of solar panels to a breakdown of the most popular types. We’ll also highlight the top 3 solar panels for different setups, helping you make a confident and informed decision.
What Influences Your Choice of Solar Panels?
When selecting solar panels for your home, several factors come into play. Your roof plays a pivotal role in determining which solar panels will work best. Before choosing which panels are right for you it is important to consider the following:
Roof Shading
Do you have trees, chimneys, or other obstructions casting shadows on your roof? Shading is one of the most significant challenges for solar panel efficiency. Even a small area of shade can reduce output significantly if your panels use traditional string inverters. However, technologies like microinverters and power optimizers help minimize this issue by ensuring shaded panels don’t compromise the entire system’s performance. This is particularly useful in urban areas or for buildings with partial shading. If shading is unavoidable, investing in high-efficiency panels or microinverters can help maximize energy output.
Roof Size
Is your roof large enough to accommodate multiple panels? Homes with limited roof space may need to prioritize high-wattage panel options. However higher wattage options typically see an increase in overall panel size therefore striking the right balance between panel capacity and roof size is essential. Typically a 450W- 460W panel will fit the majority of domestic properties either in portrait or landscape orientations. You can mix the orientation of panels to maximise the number of panels on your roof.
It is worth noting that adequate clearance around panels from the roof edge is a requirement of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) guidance. MCS currently advises a minimum of 400mm from the gutter to the first row of panels. The same dimension applies to the outside edges of the roof.
If you have a roof which is short in overall height from gutter to ridge, such as a pitched garage roof, which cannot fit multiple rows of panels it could be worth considering panels with a larger capacity such as 500W – 510W to utilize the available space to the best of its ability. Mixing different panel capacities is not recommended e.g. installing 460W panels on a main properties roof, with a separate group of 500W on an outbuilding or garage is not deemed good practice from a design perspective due to voltage differentiation. Using an accredited installer to design your system and provide advice will aid navigating around such scenarios
Roof Type
Although the roof type doesn’t necessarily dictate which panel you select it does influence the mounting or fixing of equipment. For example when retrofitting (adding panels above the existing roof tiles or covering) the roof pitch usually needs to be greater than 15 degrees up to a maximum of 70 degrees. This ensures the hooks and rails which the panels are fixed to, comply with manufacturers recommendations. Retrofitting panels is the most common form of solar panel installation within the UK domestic market. The majority of homeowners can retrofit solar panels. Furthermore, you can retrofit on most roof coverings such as concrete tile, slate and rosemary by using different hooks and fixing methods.
Flat Roofs
Flat roofs also present a good opportunity to mount Solar panels. However a different fixing solution is applied with multiple options on the market. Flat roof solar panel mounting kit’s consist of steel framework to fix the panels to which is weighed down with ballast. Generally in the form of concrete tile / slabs or stone in buckets to hold the system in place. The roof height and geographic location of the property informs the design and amount of ballast required to cover wind loadings. The roof substructure also requires evaluation to ensure it can support the additional load posed by the panels and mounting kits.
In Roof
In-roof solar panel systems are common forms of installation on new build properties. If your roof is being re-tiled or reconfigured, in-roof solar panels are something you should definitely consider. An in-roof system offers a sleek alternative with panels sitting flush to the roof tile. This presents a seamless transition between roof tile and panel. In-roof solar panels are installed on trays mounted direct to additional roof battens. Sheet metal and lead flashing surrounds are then fitted to allow surface water to run off protecting the roof below. In essence the solar panel surface area replaces the tile and can save on roofing materials costs.
Corrugated Roof
For corrugated roofs mounting options fixing directly to the sheet seam via clamps are available. Its also possible to drill through the sheet into the rafters below. A reputable installer will be able to guide you through the various scenarios.
Roof Orientation
Roof orientation is one of the key factors in solar panel performance and generation levels. Installing solar panels in a South facing direction provides the best performance. Installing panels facing East/ West also provides good generation levels capturing early morning and late evening daylight prolonging generation hours. Solar panels do not require direct sunlight to generate electricity making the UK a viable option for solar panels. As panel capacities increase we are seeing more benefits to the North facing solar panels in the right conditions. However you will inevitably see a reduction in generation during the Autumn and Winter months. It is advisable to install North facing solar panels with additional panels facing East West or South.
One of the main components of the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is prediction of annual generation based on geographic location, roof orientation and roof pitch meaning an MCS accredited installer should be working within this guidance providing you confidence the system will perform as expected.
New vs. Retrofit Installations
Are you planning a retrofit on an existing roof, or is this a new installation? As discussed, retrofitting panels onto an existing roof involves different considerations than installing them as part of a new building project. For retrofits, traditional solar panel systems may be more suitable. However, new builds offer an opportunity to consider sleek “in-roof” panel options that blend seamlessly with your home’s design.
- Retrofit Systems: These sit on top of an existing roof structure and are ideal if you’re adding solar panels to your current home. Retrofitting panels is the most common form of solar panel installation within the UK domestic market and can be applied to most roof coverings such as concrete tile, slate and rosemary by using different hooks and fixing methods.
- New Installations: If you’re building a new home or renovating, consider in-roof systems that integrate seamlessly into the roof design. An in-roof system offers a sleek alternative with solar panels sitting flush to the roof tile presenting a seamless transition between roof tile and panel.
How Can E-Verve Energy Help?
A professional survey and design will help you to navigate the above factors and achieve the best options for your roof type, energy requirements and budget. Our interactive solar design tool provides initial transparent pricing allowing you to draw out your own roof to find relevant solar panel packages. Additionally you can also add options for battery storage solutions. We offer a Live Solar Design with full visibility of our industry benchmarked, transparent pricing. Our Quote Builder allows you to see how different options and products will effect your free no obligation quote! We also provide a free home survey and assessment of your roof condition before installation. This ensures that everything runs smoothly on the day. Interested in exploring further? just click on the button below or get in touch with the team!
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Types of Solar Panels and Their Pros & Cons
Solar technology is constantly advancing. Look for brands offering innovative features like microinverters for better energy management or heat-resistant materials to maintain performance in high temperatures. When it comes to choosing solar panels, it’s important to understand the different types available as each has its advantages and potential drawbacks.
Polycrystalline Solar Panels
Polycrystalline panels, also known as “multi-crystalline panels,” are made from silicon—just like other types of solar panels such as monocrystalline solar panels. However, instead of being manufactured with a single crystal structure, polycrystalline panels are produced by melting fragments of silicon together to form a single large wafer. This manufacturing process gives the panels their trademark blue, speckled appearance.
Although polycrystalline panels were initially less efficient than monocrystalline solar panels, advancements in solar technology have allowed them to compete more effectively in both performance and affordability.
Monocrystalline Solar Panels
Monocrystalline solar panels, also known as “single-crystal” panels, are one of the most efficient types of solar panels on the market. The name ‘monocrystalline solar panel’ derives from their construction—each solar cell is made from a single continuous silicon crystal. This premium construction method gives monocrystalline solar panels a uniform, dark appearance, typically black or dark blue.
Their single-crystal structure makes monocrystalline solar panels highly efficient at absorbing sunlight and converting it into energy. Even in low-light conditions or on cloudy days.
Bifacial Solar Panels
Bifacial panels are an innovative type of solar module that generates power from both sides of the panel. Unlike traditional monofacial panels—which only capture sunlight on the front—bifacial panels also collect light that reflects off surfaces like the ground, water, or rooftops onto their rear side.
Designed with transparent back sheets or dual glass layers, these panels are both functional and durable. To optimise energy capture and efficiency bifacial solar panels are commonly mounted at an angle or over reflective surfaces .
Microinverters V String Inverters
Microinverters are small devices that are installed on each individual solar panel in a system. Their primary job is to convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by the panel into alternating current (AC) power, which your home appliances use. They function independently, meaning each solar panel has its own microinverter. This setup is in contrast to more traditional string or Hybrid inverters, which connect multiple solar panels into a series (a “string”) and rely on a single centralised inverter to convert all the electricity to AC power.
- Performance Microinverters offer optimised performance at the panel level. For instance, if one of your panels is shaded or experiences an issue, the others continue to function at full capacity. String inverters, on the other hand, can face an efficiency downgrade if one of your panels is affected by shading or dirt, as the entire “string” operates based on the performance of the weakest panel.
- System Size and Complexity Microinverters are ideal for systems with irregular panel layouts or shading as they allow each panel to function independently. String inverters are more efficient with simpler, uniform installations where shading is minimal and sun exposure is consistent throughout the day.
- Monitoring With microinverters, users can usually monitor the performance of each individual panel. Offering detailed insights and making it easy to identify and address any issues. String inverters typically provide monitoring at the system level, which doesn’t offer as much granularity as microinverters.
- Installation Microinverters require installing multiple inverters (one per panel), which may increase labor and material costs upfront. String inverters have a single unit, making initial installations simpler and slightly cheaper for larger systems.
Best Solar Panels for Home: How to Choose
Investing in Solar PV is a practical and sustainable way to power your home whilst also reducing energy costs. To select the best solar panels for you, carefully evaluate your roof’s condition, your energy needs, and your installation type.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t worry—our team of solar experts are here to help. We are officially The Most Trusted Solar Panel Installers of 2024! With over 10 years in the industry and over 20,000+ installations undertaken across the UK. We’ve selected the best Solar PV products on the market to offer our customers trusted fixed prices for solar panel installation. Designed with our solar experts and installed by our award winning team of solar installers. We offer options for Live Solar Design with full visibility of our industry benchmarked, transparent pricing and how different options and products will effect your free no obligation quote!
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Best Solar Panels for Home: Our Top 3 Picks
We compared solar panels based on cost, efficiency, reliability, low-light performance, durability, and customer reviews to bring you three standout options. Here are our recommendations:
Best Solar Panels for Home: Domestic Retrofit Installations – AIKO Solar
AIKO impresses with its high-efficiency monocrystalline solar panels tailored for retrofits. Known for excellent low-light performance, AIKO panels are perfect for harnessing energy even on cloudy days. Why it’s great:
Best Solar Panels for Home: In-Roof Systems – Viridian Solar
If you’re seeking a sleek, seamless look for a new build or reroofing project, Viridian Solar in-roof panels are an excellent choice. These slimline panels integrate flawlessly with your roof and offer reliable energy production. Why Viridian Solar is great:
Best Bifacial Solar Panels for Home: – JA Solar
Pairing JA Solar panels with mounting solutions which allow light to distribute below the solar panel proves an effective way to secure more electricity generation from your Solar Panels. For flat roofs were panels are elevated to ground mounted within your garden, this high wattage Solar panel ticks all the boxes! Why it’s great:
So Which Solar Panels are Right for You?
Ultimately, the best solar panels for your home depend on your unique needs and setup. By considering roof factors, shading, installation type, and panel efficiency, you can select a solution that delivers maximum energy output, cost savings, and environmental benefits.
How Can E-Verve Energy Help?
We are officially The Most Trusted Solar Panel Installers of 2024 and with over 10 years in the Industry your in safe hands! We are fully OZEV and MCS accredited TrustMark approved and proud members of both RECC and CPA . This means that all projects are fully protected and completed by our accredited tradesmen.
With over 10 years in the industry and over 20,000+ installations undertaken across the UK. We’ve selected the best solar products on the market to offer our customers trusted fixed prices for solar panel installation. Designed with our solar experts and installed by our award winning team of solar panel installers.
We offer options for Live Solar Design with full visibility of our industry benchmarked, transparent pricing and how different options and products will effect your free no obligation quote!
Get Your Custom Solar Quote Today
Select your ideal setup and receive a tailored quote in minutes.
90+ Google Reviews