Solar installations are becoming more popular around the world with more and more people owning them. As a matter of fact, various Energy Agencies reports suggest that by 2050 a quarter of energy usage and production may derive from solar power.

Two very valid reasons for deciding to go solar are global warming and rising energy bills. Homes with solar panels are also easier to sell, and most governments support solar installation.

Still, this is a significant investment that one does not make over the counter at the spur of the moment. It is best to make sure you do some research on the product you wish to purchase and to keep the following guidelines in mind.

 

 

1. The Structure of the Roof

Solar systems can be installed on any roof no matter the size, shape, and material. However, finding a company that has experience with solar installations on your type of roof might be a struggle if your roof is not of the ordinary.

There are installation companies that will tell you that your roof type is not fit for solar installation. Remember, this only means they haven’t worked with your roof structure before. Keep searching and don’t get discouraged!

2. The Condition of the Roof

Before proceeding with solar panel installation, make sure your roof is well maintained and in excellent condition. Keep in mind that when your roof gets old and needs replacement, it can be costly to take off the solar panels and to reinstall them.

Therefore, it is best to replace your roof at the same time when you switch to solar. Take into consideration that solar can panels can last for thirty years or more so it is best to opt for a durable roofing material with a longer lifespan.

3. The Location of Your Home

The location and orientation of your home play a significant role when it comes to the amount of solar power your panels will generate. To find the most efficient solution, professional solar installers use solar measuring tools that calculate the amount of energy that is available on a daily, monthly and yearly basis.

If you live in an area that does not see much sun, then chances are that more panels will be needed to provide sufficient solar power. Also, if there are specific objects like trees and satellite dishes casting shadows on your roof, they will need to be repositioned in order to maximize the potential of your solar system.

4. Solar Panel Types

Your solar panel choice will most likely depend on your budget and your taste. The most popular and the most affordable choice today are traditional, roof-mounted panels. However, if you don’t have enough roof space, you can choose to go with the ground-attached panels. They often require more labor and material so they can turn out to be a bit more expensive.

An important thing to keep in mind when choosing your panel type is efficiency: higher efficiency means a higher return on your investment. Efficiency can be boosted by installing solar trackers that allow panels to follow the direction of the sun. And if you’d like your solar system not only to work great but also to look great, you can add shingles that will allow solar panels to blend in with your home’s roof.

5. Your Financing Options

The cost of a solar system will depend on the type of panels, the amount needed and the company you choose to do the installation. It usually varies between $25,000 and $35,000, and the purchase makes you eligible for tax credits or rebates.

If you do not have enough funds or cannot get a loan, another option is to lease a solar array. In that case, you do not own the solar panels yourself. Instead, you regularly pay a small rental fee – but you still save the money on utility bills!

6. The Contract

When you have decided on the type of solar panels you will purchase, make sure your solar contract includes all the important items like financing, ownership and performance expectations.

For your safety, make sure it says who has access to data on your home’s energy production and usage. And if you are not sure or understand the contract thoroughly, it is always best to find some legal advice before signing anything.

Final Thoughts

Moving from conventional energy resources towards solar energy is one of the most significant moves that our society can make to reduce the carbon footprint. Besides from being kind to the environment, solar panels will help you save on your energy bills, and they will eventually pay for themselves.

To get the most out of your money, it is best to do thorough research on the specific type of solar system you are interested in. Investigation of the company you choose for the installation is also critical to make sure they are trustworthy and professional.

Consider all your options, read reviews and take your time until you are a 100% sure. Remember, as solar panels are most likely a once-in-a-lifetime buy!

Article by Mattea Jacobs – a freelance writer who mostly writes about both interior and exterior home design, and environmentally-friendly ways to improve homes.