Is Your Home Suited for Solar Panel Installation?
Are you considering a solar panel installation for your home? You're not the only one. According to Energy.gov, more than one in seven homes will have a rooftop solar PV system by 2030 in the United States. And this should come as no surprise since the perks of a solar energy system are endless. Some examples of these advantages are reduced carbon emissions, decreased home energy bills, increased home value, government incentives, and low maintenance costs.
In light of this, you're probably ready to jump on the bandwagon and start this installation project today. But this begs the question of if your home is suitable for solar energy. And it's vital to explain that some houses might have more optimal conditions for this. To give you an overview, we've highlighted five factors to consider in order for you to see if your home meets the requirements. Review this list below and don't hesitate to contact the appropriate professionals near you to get an opinion on this decision process and maybe start the rewarding installation process.
Know Your Energy Bill Total
First things first, you should know your monthly energy bill total. This cost should help you decide if switching to solar energy will save you money in the long run. For example, if you're not using too much, you might not need this modern home feature to save money. On the other hand, if your household energy bill is high, you can understand how much money you'll save and how dynamic your solar panel system needs to be to ensure saved compensation.
Evaluate Your Roof's Condition
It's essential to evaluate your roof's condition for a few reasons. First, your roof should be in shape to install solar panels. If your roof materials are damaged or crumbling, it'll be difficult for professionals to install the panels successfully. Plus, a roof replacement is an extensive process following a panel installation because a solar specialist will remove and reinstall the equipment. With this considered, it can be beneficial to get a roof replacement before the installation of solar panels.
Determine Your Roof Type
Solar panels will work best on roofs made of durable materials and construction. These materials and construction will ensure the heavy paneling has support with a proper foundation. Examples of durable roofing materials include asphalt and composite shingles, concrete tiles, slate tiles, and stone-coated steel. As said above, it's helpful to get a roof replacement, and using long-lasting roofing materials before an installation is a must. Solar specialists can give you more input on this subject and let you know if your roof type is adequate for this installation.
Know Your Location's Climate
While all solar panels can produce energy, some climates have more optimal conditions for energy production. For example, someone in the sunny state of California will have a better result in energy production than someone in a foggy and rainy area like Washington. A great way to evaluate if your climate is suitable for solar energy panels is to use suitability checker tools on the internet.
But, you also consider factors like your home's sunlight exposure and cloud cover. Determine what times of the day you receive the most exposure to sunlight or which months you receive more cloud cover. It can also be wise to consider how often your area receives weather elements like rain, snow, fog, and sleet. These factors can also impact your solar energy system's ability to produce adequate power. Professionals can help you uncover your specific climate and how successful your panels will be at energy production and saving you money.
Consider Your Roof's Exact Size
After you have evaluated your energy bill total, your roof's condition and materials, and your location's climate, it's essential to consider your roof's exact size. The amount of space one needs for the installation will vary depending on the types of panels one want to use and their electricity usage. With this said, each situation is unique, and you need to make sure that your roof is of sufficient size for your needs. Plus, this roof size can help professionals evaluate how much sunlight the panels will receive once installed to give you a proper energy production estimate.
As you can now understand, the advantages of solar energy are many, and thus the popularity of switching is increasing. Before you decide on this switch to solar, review these five factors above and consider if your home is suited for solar panel installation. If it is, contact Solar Savings Direct, Inc and begin this life-changing project today.
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