Despite the hardships of the pandemic, there has been a 43 percent increase in residential solar installations in the United States in the past two years. Not only can solar panels help reduce dependence on fossil fuels, but they can earn homeowners tax credits and rebates while also cutting down or eliminating electricity bills.
If you are thinking about installing solar panels, there are a few things to know about how they function and what options you have.
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1. Installing Solar Panels on Your Roof
Not all roofs are ready for solar panels. You want to check that your home’s roof does not require renovations or repairs because it must be in good condition to withstand the weight of solar panels.
The roof must also have only minimal shading to be the best place for the installation of solar panels. There are other conditions your roof must meet to be the right location for solar panels. Read more about it at https://blueravensolar.com/blog/pros-and-cons-of-different-renewable-resources/.
2. Which Type Is Right for Your Needs?
There are three different types of solar panel options. Monocrystalline panels are the most expensive but also the most energy-efficient. Polycrystalline panels are a bit less efficient but they are more affordable, while thin-film panels are more flexible and portable.
You also want to consider whether you want solar panels or solar shingles. Solar panels are more affordable, but shingles are more aesthetically pleasing.
3. Buy or Lease?
You can buy your solar panel system or you can lease it. If you lease the panels, you do not have significant upfront costs but they do not add value to your property. If you choose to buy the panels, you will be saving money in the long run.
4. Permits and Regulations
Each municipality and state has different regulations regarding solar panels. Before installing them, you have to know what the requirements are. Remember that the process of acquiring permits can take time, so plan ahead.
The right installation company can help with getting permits.
5. Grid or Off-Grid
You can choose to connect your solar panels to the grid or you can decide to store the energy in batteries. Most homeowners choose to be on the grid because they can get incentives and credit based on the excess energy their panels produced.
Off-grid systems require large storage capabilities so you can use the energy when you need it.
6. Solar Panel Maintenance
Providing consistent maintenance to your solar panels will increase their longevity and ensure they continue to be efficient. You have to perform an annual inspection and make sure the panels have no debris on them.
Turn to Solar Energy
Installing solar panels can help you lower your energy costs and can give you the option to be on or off the grid. Green energy is the future, so consider solar panel installation for your property.
If you want to know more about how to improve your house’s energy efficiency, turn to our Home page!
