Solar has become one of the most popular methods to produce green energy out there. It’s now affordable for many homeowners and doesn’t cost a fortune to install. That’s why solar made up more than half of all new energy production in the United States in the first half of 2022.
There is a lot to consider when you select solar panels, so you need to learn everything you can about what it takes to make an intelligent purchase. Keep reading to learn how to find a solution for your residential solar system.
Examine Your Roof
One step you can’t skip when you decide to get solar panels is to figure out if your roof can handle the load. You’re putting a lot of weight on your roof when you install solar panels. Unfortunately, not all roofs can handle that load.
This is especially true for old roofs. Older roofs can be problematic and have unknown issues that make installing solar panels troublesome.
If you discover that your roof can’t handle solar, you’ll need to get a new roof installed. That’s an additional cost you need to factor into your solar installation budget.
Understand Your Power Needs
The next step to creating solar panel designs is understanding your current power needs. Most people are installing solar panels to offset their electricity bills. They want to eliminate the money they pay to the power company annually.
You’ll need to understand your power usage to accomplish this goal. Look at your power usage history to see your average usage and what you use during high-energy periods. You’ll need to build a solar system that can handle your demand at all times.
Figure Out Your Sun Exposure
The next step to building a solar system is to learn what kind of sun exposure you have. The way you position your solar panels will play a vital role in how much power you generate. Ideally, you’ll position them in a way that lets them absorb the most sun during the day.
Look at your weather patterns and roof position to learn what kind of sun exposure you’ll get during the day. Doing this will tell you how much output you can expect and how many panels you’ll need to meet your power goals.
Pick the Right Solar Material
There’s more than one type of solar panel. There are several types of solar film that all have pros and cons. Each of them absorbs sunlight differently and can operate better in different conditions.
You may need to speak with a solar panel provider to learn more about your options. A solar installer can tell you which panel material works best in your area and will meet your power needs.
Calculate Your Cost
You’re ready to calculate your solar panel cost once you know what panels you’ll pick. Use the total power you need and the expected output you’ll see from your panel to figure out how many panels you’ll need to buy.
You can also look at solar tax credits from national and local governments to see how much money you can save. This information will tell you how much your installation will cost regarding hardware and help you create a solar system budget. Of course, you’ll also need to get quotes from a solar installer to get your labor your costs.
Find a Solar Installer
You can start shopping for a solar installer once you decide what solar panels to buy. You probably don’t want to handle the installation yourself because you’re dealing with electricity, and it’s much better to rely on a professional who can do the job right.
Search for local installers who have plenty of experience installing solar panels. You can find reviews online to filter your choices to only the best companies in your area. Talk with each one and get pricing to learn what value the solar installers offer in your area.
Check for Great Warranties
Even if you do all the due diligence required to get a proper solar installation, that doesn’t mean you won’t experience any problems. Solar installations are complex. There’s plenty of opportunity for something to go wrong.
The question is, will the solar company you hire and solar panel manufacturer stand by their work? You don’t want to pay for work again that should have worked the first time correctly. Look for warranties that guarantee success, and don’t buy anything that doesn’t have a standard warranty.
Look at Battery Options
This step in choosing solar panels is optional, but you will need to go this route if you want solar power during the night. Battery systems will let you store the excess energy you produce during the day. You can use that energy at night and other times when you don’t produce enough energy from the sun.
Battery capacity has improved over the years, so there are many battery options. You’ll need to find a system that works with a solar system and purchase other components to make the energy conversion. An experienced solar panel company should be able to help you figure this out, so don’t hesitate to ask your installer.
Now You Know How to Select Solar Panels
You’re going to spend a lot of money when you purchase solar panels, so you need to learn everything possible about what makes a great choice. The above tips are a great start at learning how to select solar panels that will meet your needs. Keep them in mind to ensure you’re ready to find the perfect solar panel products for your needs.
Check out the blog to discover more tips that will help you complete other home improvement projects.
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