All across the world, individuals, businesses and governments are choosing sustainable energy sources. Climate change and pollution drive people to seek a cleaner way to get electricity.
The need for solar power has increased exponentially in the last decade. Because it is a simple clean energy source, governments are incentivizing citizens to install them in their own. It can be a powerful source of energy for households and can save them money on their monthly bill.
Are you thinking of installing solar power for your home? Before you dive into a contract or buy into a solar power system, there are a few things you should know. This list will help you research and prepare for installing a solar power system in your own home.
1. Is Your Home Optimal?
This is the first and most important question. If your home isn’t designed or located to support solar power, then there is no use in buying a whole system. Obviously shade is a big factor. Is your house mostly exposed to the sun with little shading from trees or other buildings? Then solar panels would be efficient for your home.
The next factor to find out is how many sun hours your location gets throughout the year. You want to take into account the average for the whole year knowing winter will be shorter and summer will be longer. On average, most locations get 3-4 hours of peak sun hours on a sunny day.
2. Can Your Roof Support Solar Panels?
How do you know if your roof is ready for solar panels? The first thing you should look into is when your roof needs to be renovated. If it needs to be renovated soon, then you will want to wait and invest in putting in new roofing. You won’t want the blow of the added costs to temporarily remove your panels to have your shingles replaced.
The material of your shingles is also a contributing factor. Fragile shingle materials may require special installation techniques. Your shingle material can also dictate the amount of weight that your roof can support.
The structure of your roof is also a vital factor to consider. Is your roof sloped or flat? The shape may not make it ideal for installation. Consider having a contractor or structural engineer inspect your roof on both the exterior and interior to determine if it’s suitable to support panels.
Fortunately, there is a wide range of panels on the market. The various sizes and weights make planning your installation adjustable to the requirements of your roof. Installing supports may also be an option if you decide to opt for heavier panels than your roof is suited for.
3. What Level of Solar Panel Efficiency Should You Buy?
Another driving factor in selecting a panel is the efficiency you desire. The percentage of efficiency is a good way to compare different panels. It’s also a useful way to determine if the panels will meet your energy needs.
The efficiency percentage of the panels measures how much of the sunlight the panels can capture and convert to electricity. A more efficient panel is able to convert the same amount of sunlight into more electricity, despite its size.
For example, if a solar panel can turn 15 percent of the sunlight it catches into usable power, it’s efficiency rating would be 15 percent. Most panels on the market have an efficiency that hovers around the 15 to 17 percent range. Though there are some high-end panels that can convert over 22 percent of sunlight.
Keep in mind the factors that might influence changes in the efficiency of your panels. If you live in a dusty area or a place where dirt is frequently airborne, you may need to consider the cleaning regimen to keep your panels running at max efficiency.
Higher efficiency typically results in a more expensive panel. The trick is to balance your energy needs with your budget. It’s important to calculate how the additional energy a higher cost panel will create too offset your initial investment.
4. What Type of Solar Panel? For Electricity or Hot Water?
The main types of solar panels suitable for residential use are monocrystalline panels, poly-crystalline panels, and photovoltaics. Each has its own set of benefits and advantages. You can decide which one is best for your unique situation.
Monocrystalline panels are made up of silicon wafers and are the oldest form of solar panel technology. The cylindrical wafers are made from a single piece of the highest-grade pure silicon. This makes them incredibly efficient but also expensive.
These panels can make the most power while taking up the smallest amount of space. Monocrystalline panels are also better at producing energy in cloudy conditions than the other types. Plus, the cost may be worth their long life span. Many panels have warranties of about 25 years.
Poly-crystalline panels are formed from melted and molded silicone. The hardened silicone is then cut into wafers to make up the panel. The advancing technology of these panels has made them increasingly popular.
Because of the more efficient production process, poly-crystalline panels come at a lower price range than monocrystalline. They are also improving in efficiency and some even compare to the efficiency of monocrystalline panels. However, they still may require a larger footprint and don’t perform as well in lower levels of sunlight.
Photovoltaic panels convert photons from the sun into energy. The material in the panels separates the electron from the photon and channels them into the power grid. The conducting material can be most cost-efficient to produce with than silicone, making these panels more inexpensive.
These panels tend to be less efficient, but their lower price point may allow for the purchase of more panels. Plus, as they become more popular, their cost continues to decrease. They are also not as affected by shade or extreme heat.
The level of sunlight and climate in your area can help you decide which type of panel would be best for your needs. You can also determine how efficient you need your panels to be considering your roof space and the power you wish to generate. Your budget is also a factor in balancing efficiency and cost.
Looking at your usage can help you decide how much power you need to be energy independent. Consider both your hot water heating energy usage and the electricity required to power your home. This can drive your decision in the type of panel and the quantity you will require.
5. What Type of Inverter Should You Buy?
The inverter you choose is nearly as important as your decision on the panel type. Different types of converters offer different features and benefits. There are three types of inverters you can select from for your system.
String inverters involve installing your panels in rows, each row connected on a string. Then, each string feeds into a central inverter. You can think of it like singular branches on a tree that are all connected at the trunk. The single inverter is responsible for converting the entire load of energy from DC to usable AC energy.
The benefit of string inverters is that they are extremely budget-friendly. However, each string is only as efficient as the panel in it that is producing the least amount of energy. This makes string inverters a poor choice in partially shaded areas. If even just one panel in the string is blocked from the sun, it can render the entire string unproductive.
A microinverter system consists of smaller inverters that are paired with each individual panel. The electricity is converted from DC to AC right at the source. This eliminates the need for a central inverter all together.
Microinverters are reliable, causing them to rise in popularity. Because the panels are essentially independent, there’s no effect on efficiency should another panel be blocked. This benefit does come at a higher price point though.
Power optimizers are a great middle-ground between the two options. Each panel still has its own, independent inverter. However, there is still a central inverter that needs to convert the energy from DC to AC before it can be used.
This can be a budget-friendly option while not compromising performance. The panels still function independently from each other. However, a string inverter is still necessary to transfer the energy for usage in the home.
6. What are The Warranties of Purchasing a Solar Panel?
Your solar system will likely be a significant investment. Getting a return on your investment depends on your system functioning well and producing energy that offsets your initial cost for years to come. Luckily, manufacturers are aware of this and offer warranties for your confidence and ease of mind.
Many solar panels are warrantied for a range of 10 to 25 years. Beware, however, of production caveats. The warranty works on a scale of decreasing the guaranteed amount of power as the panels age. It’s important to review your manufacturer’s warranty terms carefully.
For example, your panels may be warrantied for 25 years. This doesn’t guarantee that you’ll receive a hundred percent of the original efficiency for that panel’s lifetime. Your warranty may state that after ten years, your panel is only guaranteed to produce 80 percent of the rated power output. The percentage of output guaranteed will likely steadily decrease over the remaining years of the warranty.
Your inverter will likely not last as long as your panels. The expected life span varies depending on the type of inverter and the quality of the construction. The exposure to elements the electrical components must withstand can also shorten its expectancy.
Inverters can be warrantied for anywhere between five and twenty-five years. String inverters tend to have a shorter warranty period than microinverters. However, each manufacturer varies greatly so weigh their terms when considering your options.
Often, a product is only as good as the installation process. A bad install could wreak havoc on your how system. It’s essential to have your installation strongly guaranteed.
Your installer should offer a warranty on their work. This guarantees that the equipment is installed correctly and will perform as promised. It should also state that they will repair or replace any issues that are caused by faulty installation.
7. Who Will Do The Maintenance of Your Panels?
Solar panels are relatively low maintenance. However, it’s important to have a routine in place to keep your system working in tip-top shape. You’ll also want to have a contingency plan should a major issue arise.
Your panels should be kept clean of dust and dirt. This may have to be done more frequently if you live in a dry or dusty climate. You can either spray them down with your standard hose or hire a company to clean them for you.
It’s important to regularly monitor how efficiently your system is running to detect any problems immediately. If you notice a considerate or long-term dip in production and your panels are clean, it’s time to call your installer. They can assess your system and help you solve any issues.
8. How Can You Finance The Installation Of a Solar Panel?
Your solar power system is going to come with a hefty price tag. Some homeowners may have the cash on hand to pay out of pocket. However, there are options for those that wish to finance their installation.
You can borrow against your home if you have enough equity in the property. A home equity line of credit or a second mortgage could provide the money you need for your purchase. However, it’s important to be wise about borrowing against your property.
There are many options for loans designed specifically for solar energy projects. You may still be able to reap the benefits of tax incentives. Plus, your monthly payments may even be lower than your current utility bills.
You can also ask the solar installation company about the types of financing they offer. They often partner with financial institutions to provide low-interest loans for their systems. Some companies even offer an introductory no-interest period.
Leasing your panels is another alternative. The solar company would keep ownership of the panels and maintain them. Your lease payment to them would basically replace your utility costs so you could live off cleaner energy.
9. Should You Buy or Lease a Solar Power System?
Like a car, you’ll need to make the decision if buying or leasing works best for your situation. Purchasing the panels outright or with a loan is certainly an investment. However, many people find leasing their system much more manageable.
Buying a system definitely has its advantages. By owning your system, you may be eligible for tax credits. You also could end up making a return on your investment when the amount you’ve saved in energy costs surpasses the amount you spent on your system.
However, owning a system leaves you with the responsibility of maintaining your system. You’ll also have to address any problems that arise or repairs that are necessary. Also, depending on your usage and the cost of your system, it may take you years to see savings that exceed your investment.
Leasing offers you the comfort of not having to worry about your system. You may also have the flexibility of a lower monthly payment than you’ll receive with financing. Your solar company will still own the system so they will take the responsibility of maintaining it off your hands.
There are some downfalls to the perks of leasing though. You won’t have access to the tax credits that may be available if you owned the system. Also, you’ll have an ongoing payment, rather than a plan to pay off your system and own it outright for no-cost energy.
10. How Much Money Will You Actually Save By Switching to Solar?
Your solar power system can save you some serious cash. However, there are many factors that determine just how much. Your usage, location, and cost of your system all come into play.
In order to offset your electric bill, your system would need to accommodate all of your energy usage. Keep in mind that you will still receive a bill if your home is connected to the grid. This can be eliminated however if you produce enough energy to be sent back to the grid to receive a credit on your bill.
Your location can determine the amount of energy your panels have the potential to produce, and conversely your savings. Obviously, sunnier locals see more daylight that can generate energy. Also, electricity costs vary by location so some people may benefit more from producing their own energy than others.
The investment in your system also plays a role in your savings. You may be saving on your energy costs, but it’s important to keep in mind the financial obligations you are paying for your system. You’ll start to see significant savings when your system is fully paid off.
11. What Items on my Electricity Bill Will Change?
You’ll likely still receive an electric bill even with your solar power system. If you are producing enough energy, these will likely be minimal fees. You also may be able to produce enough energy to offset future costs.
Your bill may include a time of use metering cost. This involves the varying rates that the company charges for usage during peak hours. If your solar battery charges enough during the day, you can negate these charges by using that saved power during the high-rate peak hours.
You may also have a service fee that is simply charged for your home’s connection to the grid, whether you are using it or not. Taxes are also still applied to any electrical usage you may have had. These nominal fees should remain steady though. If you see a significant increase in your electric bill, it’s important to check your system’s function.
12. What Are Your Options for Utility Companies?
There are some ways you can make your energy independence work for you. Utility companies are working to partner with solar energy users to protect their businesses in this changing world of energy. It’s important to work with your utility company to explore all of the options available to you.
Ask your electric company about their net metering options. This is a system where your unused solar-generated electricity is sent back to their grid. You will then receive credits for the amount of energy. So, in times of decreased efficiency of your system, you can use these credits to pull power from the grid.
You may also find that your system generates a significant surplus of energy. This is a great opportunity to work with your utility company as a power broker. Your company may be willing to agree to a deal to purchase your extra power for a pre-agreed upon rate.
13. How Can You Connect to The Grid When Switching to Solar?
If you are looking for a solar and electric hybrid, you’ll still need to be connected to the grid. This will allow you to use conventional electricity during low-efficiency times or send extra power back to the main grid. Work together with your solar installer and the utility company to make sure installation is performed correctly.
Make sure your solar company is knowledgeable on the requirements of local utility companies. You might also need a specialized inverter and specific meter for your situation. You’ll want to ensure that the energy you are both using and producing is accurately measured.
14. How Should You Research Solar Panel Installation Contractors?
The trust you have in your solar contractor is of the utmost importance. You want to be confident in their advice and expertise. You should research your contractor as thoroughly as you research your system.
Don’t hesitate to ask friends and neighbors for referrals. The experiences of others will give you the clearest picture of what to expect. Checking out online reviews and feedback is a good way to research the reputations of possible contractors.
If you want to make sure your contractor is knowledgeable, you can ask them if they are a certified energy practitioner. This board oversees everything from conducting exams to training and education. Their easy to use directory can help you find a certified installer in your area
15. How Can You Make Sure The Installation of Your Panel is Safe?
Once you settle on a contractor, there are some bases to cover to ensure a smooth and safe installation. The nature of installing solar panels is a dangerous task. You want to be sure your contractors are doing whatever they can to prevent accidents and injuries.
Ask for proof that your contractors are licensed and bonded. They should also carry insurance to cover any accidents that may occur. Don’t hesitate to inquire about the safety practices they have in place and how they are trained in industry standards.
16. What Can You Expect in Your Contract?
As with any contract, it’s important to make sure that you understand all aspects before signing. Don’t be afraid to ask for clarification or amendments. It’s to the benefit of both parties to go into the project with mutually agreed-upon terms.
If you have opted for the ownership of your system, make sure the terms are clear regarding your financing if you aren’t paying cash. You’ll also want to review the warranty information carefully. Make sure the component warranties, as well as the workmanship guarantees, are included.
Are you choosing to lease your system? Check your contract for pricing and escalations in your monthly payments over time. It’s also important to look for a guarantee of performance to ensure you receive the amount of energy that you are paying for. Also, consider the terms for ending your lease early if that is a possibility.
17. Is The Installation Contract Fair?
The most important part of negotiating your contract is that it is fair to both parties. Do your due diligence in researching the fine print and details with several contractors. Your research will help you determine if the terms are reasonable.
Make sure there are clearly defined expectations of your installation in the contract. Is there a reasonable start and end date for your project? What are the ramifications should the installers not meet the agreement?
An ironclad contract can lead to a more seamless installation process. When the expectations are clearly agreed upon, there is less chance for surprises and frustration. Ask how you can make the process smooth and easy.
18. What Are The US Government Subsidies and Tax Credits on a Solar Power System?
One of the most well-known benefits of owning a solar power system is subsidies and tax credits. These can vary widely by area. The details often change annually or even more frequently.
It’s important to consult your tax professional when factoring the credit you’ll receive from your system. Many times, you may be eligible for a credit to offset a portion of your installation cost. Currently, in 2019, you could be eligible for a tax credit of 30 percent of the cost of your system. However, this rate is planned to decrease and eventually be eliminated in future tax years.
There are also many local subsidies that you could potentially qualify for. Some states offer tax credits while some local utility companies provide rebates and credits. These opportunities vary by area and range in amount and qualification details.
19. Who Gets The Renewable Energy Certificates/ Credits (REC)?
Renewable Energy Certificates are a way to offset your energy usage from non-renewable sources. They are used to buy an amount of energy from a renewable source. Similar to carbon credits, they are a way to support the development and production of cleaner energy.
Your solar power system has the potential to generate sellable energy. An aggregator purchases and combines the RECs from you and other solar energy system owners. They then sell the credits to other consumers or utility companies.
20. Can You Install Your Solar Power System Yourself?
It may be tempting to install your solar power system yourself to save a few bucks. However, this could result in a more costly situation. It can also be dangerous and risky, even for the most experienced handyman.
Even the most researched customer lacks the deep knowledge base that a skilled solar contractor holds. They have the expertise to help you select the ideal system for your situation. These experts can help you plan a system that will best meet your energy needs and last for years to come.
Attempting a DIY installation puts you at risk for damaging your expensive, new solar power equipment. Incorrect mounting or connections can leave a negative, irreversible impact on your components. Also, your erroneous installation could lead to the nullification of your part warranties.
A solar power system is an intricate and complex network of electrical parts and wiring. Mishandling these could lead to severe, even fatal accidents. Not to mention the danger of doing all of this complicated, unfamiliar work on a rooftop. It’s best to leave this to the professional installers with safety strategies and checks in place to make sure your install is performed correctly and without mishap.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that sustainable energy is the way of the future. Harnessing the wind and sun to power our lives significantly reduces our permanent impact on the planet. Innovation is making great strides in making renewable energy accessible and affordable to nearly everyone.
A solar power system can be a phenomenal investment. It can save, and even make you money. You’ll be more energy independent and reduce your carbon footprint. When researched and installed correctly, your home could see the benefits of your system for years to come.