Solar panels are a type of renewable energy technology that converts sunlight into usable electricity. They are used in a variety of applications, including powering homes and businesses, providing power for electric vehicles, and generating electricity for the grid.
But before you consider installing solar panels at home, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. Here are six questions to ask yourself before installing solar panels:
1. How Much Do Solar Panels Cost
According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, the average cost of a solar panel system in the United States is now around $3 per watt. This means that a typical 5 kilowatt (kW) system would cost around $15,000.
However, the cost of a solar panel system is not the only factor to consider. You also need to think about the cost of installation, the cost of maintenance, and the cost of financing.
When deciding how to finance your solar panel system, you have a few options available to you. You can pay for the system in cash, take out a loan, or lease the system from a solar company. It’s also important to find out if you’re eligible for any rebates or tax credits from the government.
2. Is Your Home a Good Candidate for Solar Panel Installation
There are a few key factors to consider when deciding if your home is a good candidate for solar panel installation.
The first is the amount of sunlight your home receives. Solar panels need direct sunlight to work effectively, so a home shaded by trees or other buildings is not a good candidate. Second is the orientation of your home. Solar panels should be installed on a south-facing roof to maximize the amount of sunlight they receive.
Lastly is the pitch of your roof. Solar panels should be installed on a roof with a pitch of 30 degrees or more to ensure they receive enough sunlight.
3. What Are the Types of Solar Panels Available
There are three main types of solar panels available on the market today: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film.
Monocrystalline panels are made from a single, large silicon crystal and are typically the most efficient type of solar panel. Polycrystalline panels are made from many smaller silicon crystals and are less efficient than monocrystalline panels. Thin-film panels are made from a thin layer of silicon deposited on a substrate and are the least efficient type of solar panel.
4. Are the Weather and Climate in Your Area Conducive to Solar Energy
The climate and weather in your area play a big role in whether or not solar energy is a good option for you. If you live in an area with a lot of sun and not much cloud cover, solar energy is a great option. However, if you live in an area with a lot of clouds and not much sun, solar energy might not be the best option for you.
5. Will Your Home Still Be Connected to the Grid or Will Solar Power Be My Only Source of Electricity
The answer to this question depends on the specific situation of the home in question. If the home is connected to the grid, then solar power can supplement the home’s electricity needs, but it will not be the only source of electricity. If the home is not connected to the grid, then solar power will be the only source of electricity.
6. How Long Does a Solar Panel System Warranty Last
Solar panel system warranties typically last for 20 to 25 years. This means that if something goes wrong with your system during that time, the manufacturer will repair or replace it at no cost to you.
Conclusion
Solar panels are a great way to save money on your energy bill and help the environment. If you are considering solar panels for your home, be sure to consider these questions to know if solar panels are the best option for you.
As a leading roofing company in San Diego, CA, Pioneer Roofing Company is proud to offer solar installation services to our customers. We’ve partnered with the best solar panel system providers to ensure that our customers have access to the most efficient and cost-effective solar panel systems available. We work closely with our partners to ensure that each solar panel system is installed correctly to harness the maximum solar energy. Let us help you save money on your energy bills and increase the value of your home. Contact us today to get started!