The solar panels available today are more efficient, and getting free electricity from the sun is very appealing. However, while installing solar panels looks simple, you need to consider several factors before you start purchasing and installing solar panels.
If you want an efficient way to save on your electricity bill, installing solar panels is an excellent option. Moreover, it is green energy, so you are using clean electricity. As mentioned, you should understand several factors to make your investment worthwhile.
1. The location of your house
The location of your house or building is essential so you know if you will benefit from solar panels or if the building enjoys full exposure to the sun during the day. Trees and tall buildings surrounding your house can obstruct the solar panels and render them inefficient. You should check with a solar panel installer or consult professionals like those from atlanticrenewables.co.uk in assessing your home to determine if solar power suits it.
2. Your energy usage
Homes differ in the amount of electricity they need. Thus, it is important to determine how much energy you require. Your electricity usage depends on the size of your house, the number of rooms, and the number of appliances you have. You also need electricity for heating and cooling, which impacts your energy consumption.
When the solar panel installers arrive at your house, show your electricity bills for the entire year. This will help the installers compute the average usage of your house. A professional solar panel installer will consider the likely usage increase in the future.
3. Your roof’s condition
Ensure that a professional inspects your roof. You need this step because roof-mounted solar panels will add more weight to the roof. The weight depends on the number of solar panels, and an average solar panel weighs about 44 pounds. If your house is older, it will definitely need an inspection. Aside from the roof’s construction, the inspector will also check its condition to ensure it is not rotten, infested, or damaged.
4. Cost and time
Installing solar panels involves a sizeable investment, and it will take about five to six years before the energy savings can offset the initial investment. If you are planning to stay in your home for a long time, investing in solar panels could be worthwhile. But if you know you will be moving every few years due to work, installing solar panels is not a good option. It is better to choose other methods to minimise your energy consumption.
5. Quality of the installation
Due to the initial cost, it is vital to choose a reliable and reputable solar panel installation company to ensure the quality of the installation. Their years of experience and the skills of the installers matter. The company should provide warranties for the solar panels and their work. You should also look for an installer that offers a free assessment.
You can protect your investment in solar panels by doing initial research to understand the vital factors to consider before buying solar panels. Likewise, it is important to find the right provider of solar panel installation.
