What is a plug-in solar panel？

Plug-in solar panels can be plugged into an outlet and are usually installed on balconies, gardens, boats, RVs, and more. Unlike traditional solar panels, which require brackets to hold them in place, plug-in solar panels can be used by simply inserting the solar panel into an already installed bracket.

Working principle of plug-in solar panels

Plug-in solar panels are mainly divided into two kinds. One is that solar panels utilize light energy to generate direct current (DC), which is then transformed into alternating current (AC) by an micro inverter, and finally supplied directly to the socket in order to power electrical appliances, and this type of solar system usually consists of three parts: solar panels, micro-inverters and electrical appliances.

The other type is without an inverter, the solar panel generates power directly for the battery charging or for solar lights and other electrical appliances that use DC power.

Advantages of plug-in solar panels

(1) Low installation cost: because of its simpler structure, some even do not need an inverter, so it is cheaper to install;

(2) Convenient installation: this solar panel does not need to be fixed on the ground or in the house, etc., only need to place it in the bracket can be, and can be disassembled at any time when snowstorms, hailstorms and other weather comes. In addition, this solar panel does not need professional personnel to install.

(3) Environmentally friendly and non-polluting: solar panels generate electricity by converting solar energy, which does not produce pollutants and slows down the greenhouse effect.

Reasons for not using plug-in solar panels

(1) Poor safety: Since plug-in solar requires wires to connect the panels to the wall sockets, it has a high possibility of tripping people and electrocuting them when they touch the plug. Moreover, when using plug-in solar panels, overloading or short-circuiting of the circuit will not trip the circuit breaker. If a special circuit is not set up for it, overloading of the circuit may occur and cause a fire;

(2) Possibly illegal: plug-in solar panels may not have been installed by regular professionals and may not necessarily meet the relevant safety requirements, and the installation of such solar panels may not be permitted in some areas such as Australia;

(3) Low cost-effectiveness: although the installation cost of plug-in solar panels is lower than that of traditional solar panels, and they are also easy to remove and install, accidental damages will require spending a large amount of money on repairs, and the efficiency of this type of solar panels is low, and they are not very effective in terms of saving money on electricity bills as compared to traditional solar panels.

Replacement of plug-in solar panels

You can opt for traditional solar panels, which are more suitable for use both in terms of cost-effectiveness and safety. However, if you want to choose a solar panel that is easy to install and remove, it is recommended to consider installing portable solar panels, which can fulfill most of your needs.