Solar panels are becoming more and more popular across the country due to its many benefits. That being said it is no simple task to install solar panels on your home as certain requirements must be met. Solar panels may seem like the right choice for most homes and commercial buildings but you must keep certain things in mind before you begin the installation process.
Below are some key factors to consider and to help you make the right decision before spending money on solar panel installation.
1. Roof type and structure
Not all roof types and structures will support a solar panel. Therefore, building owners should evaluate them with a certified contractor. You will need to hire a contractor to inspect your roof and ensure it is secure and in good enough condition to support having solar panels installed. If your roof isn’t you must make changes accordingly before having solar panels installed.
2. Measuring the energy use
3. Determining the size roof and correct positioning
The size of a roof plays a key role in solar panel installation and determines how complex the installation may be and have many solar panels can fit on the roof. In addition to this the positioning of the solar panels on the roof determine how much electricity can be produced. For example, solar panels that are in east and west generate less energy when facing the equator. A solar panel requires tilting towards the sun while producing energy. Optimizing the tilt angle provides ways to inverse the efficiency as well as energy production. Buildings that have a flat roof can benefit a lot from the extra costs.
4. Battery
Most solar panels use a battery system for storing energy. The cost of these batteries can be very expensive, especially compared to the savings provided by them. You do get more of a guarantee over a longer period as you store electricity in these batteries but you do run the risk of the batteries failing before you can use the stored electric. Solar batteries do also have a detrimental impact on the environment so if you are someone who is concerned about this then you should twice when it comes to battery storage for your solar panels.
5. Connection to the grid
Apart from the shape and structure of the roof, building owners should consider how they can connect a solar panel to the grid. They should keep certain things in mind that will help a lot to meet the essential needs. Some of them include fees, the time of crediting generated electricity, and the techniques used in crediting generated electricity.
6. Weight of a solar panel
Those who want to install a solar panel should consider the weight because it will increase the weight and stress on your roof. If the weight of a system is too heavy or the roof is old and not in the best condition, then the chances of roof collapses are high. It is wise to work with a professional contractor to determine whether a roof structure requires additional support to complete the installation process.
7. Water drainage
Installing solar panels on roofs can prevent the water from flowing properly. In some cases, a solar panel system will divert the water in different directions that can result in leaks and other problems with a home to a large extent. Hence, a building owner should seek support from a contractor who follows the best practices in the installation process.
8. Warranty
Warranty is the most important aspect to keep in mind while installing a solar panel. Some incentive programs require a warranty which helps a lot to replace a system without any additional costs. A solar contractor offers different types of warranties for building owners when they want to install a system.
9. Maintenance is a priority
Maintenance is one of the factors to keep in mind while installing a solar system. A building owner should know more about the maintenance procedures properly from a contractor that will help enhance the efficiency levels. Furthermore, it makes feasible methods to improve the lifespan of a panel with high success rates.
10. Type of a solar panel
A solar panel manufacturer offers photovoltaic and thermal systems for buildings to satisfy their requirements. Building owners can choose the right one which suits their roof structure and other things
11. Installation costs
The costs of solar panels may vary from one company to another company. However, many states and cities offer rebates for installing solar panels on a roof. Before setting up a solar system, one should ask the contractor about the options in detail.
12. Choosing the right contractor or company
When installing a solar panel, building owners should consider hiring the right company or contractor to handle complex issues on a project.
