As energy costs rise and environmental concerns grow, many homeowners are considering rooftop solar panels as a sustainable and cost-effective solution. However, some factors should be considered before investing in rooftop solar power. Solar systems are costly, and there is no point in having one if it does not benefit you.
This article explores five questions you should ask yourself before investing in rooftop solar. Answering these questions will help you determine better whether solar power suits your household.
1. Are You Ready for a New Roof Shine?
Your roof is the core structure of your solar system, so it is essential to check that it is ready for a solar panel installment. Solar panels work best during the day when the sun is directly overhead. Shade from large trees or nearby buildings on the roof for most of the day can greatly affect the solar power system’s performance. If needed, you can cut down trees or find a better location for the panels.
The average lifespan of a solar power system is 25 years or even more. Suppose your roof is old and approaching the time for its complete replacement (asphalt shingle roofs usually last between 10 and 15 years). In that case, you should replace it before installing the solar panels. This way, you do not have to remove and reinstall them for future repairs.
Solar panels also add some weight to the house’s roof. Ensure the roof structure is adequately designed to bear the extra load of the panels and mounting equipment. You can ask a competent installer about your roof’s fitness.
2. How much energy do you use?
It is essential to be conscious of electricity utilization. Some utilities include your monthly or yearly usage on your bills. This means choosing a system that generates enough electricity for most of your power needs.
Consider these additional points:
- Do you work on a computer all day and also use other electrical devices?
- Is your household a big one that consumes a lot of electricity?
- Are there any plans to install electric appliances in the future?
These can define the total amount of electricity you will be using. Electricity usage may increase in the future, so this has to be considered when choosing the size of your solar system.
3. Do You Intend to Stay Put?
Solar panels are a long-term investment. It may take some time for the initial cost of installation to be retrieved from the power produced. If you plan to move out of the house in the next few years or so, you may miss the financial benefit of the solar system.
Also, solar panels can become an appealing property addition and increase your home value. Thus, even if your plans include moving soon, the investment may still be helpful to you. Finally, it is your choice and depends on what you want to do with the house in the future.
4. Did you choose the lowest price?
It is a common misconception that cheaper solar panels are always better solar panels. Though it has become more affordable in the past decade, cheap solar panels or low-end brands should be avoided at all costs. This is usually the case with inexpensive solar panels, which do not last long. If solar panels are less durable, your investment value is lower, and future savings could be lower, too.
The scary part is that these lower-quality panels can sometimes be unsafe, leading to safety issues. The last thing you wish for is a fire outbreak in your home due to poor-quality solar panels. As a consumer, it is important to spend time and money to install the right solar panels for the proper use. In the long run, they will last longer and give you a much higher return than in the short run.
5. Keeping Your System Shining Bright
Solar panels are very easy to maintain in most cases. The efficiency of the panels can be affected by the accumulation of dust and debris on their surface. It would help if you could occasionally clean the panels, depending on where you live and the prevailing weather conditions.
However, knowing who is in charge of washing and caring for the system or equipment is crucial. It can be done individually or as part of the solar service contract with the installer company.
Conclusion
Nothing is more rewarding than using the solar energy to illuminate your home. The answers to the above five questions will leave you completely prepared to determine whether solar panels are a bright idea for you. As you seek a long-term and cheap means of powering your home and other electricity needs, think of high-efficiency solar systems. And remember, it is always the best time to invest in a rooftop solar.