The past decade has brought us in the era of affordable solar panels for residential use. There has been a major trend shift and transformation towards smart and innovative technologies across the globe.
The technology behind solar panels has been available for decades, but homeowners have been hesitant to embrace the technology because of the high prices.
Solar Energy Has Become More Affordable
Today, solar technology is more affordable than ever and the sale of solar technology is increasing at a remarkable rate.
In a time of global climate change and environmentally conscious consumers, residential and commercial properties across the globe are embracing solar technologies as they begin to transition away from fossil-fueled electricity grids and start moving towards clean energy – solar power.
But before you can start powering your home with solar energy there are some things to consider.
In this article, we’re going to give you an overview of solar for residential properties and how it can power your home with free and clean electricity.
Is Your Home Suited for Solar?
While this short list of things to consider is a great reference, you should take the time to find a solar specialist like Phoenix Green Team to answer any solar-related questions you may have.
If you’re planning to power your home with solar energy, you will want to know how solar works, and you will want to research what options might be available for you in your local market.
Finding a solar specialist that can help you find an affordable solar solution is a great place to start. You will also need to understand how you want to go about equipping your home with solar. There are solar purchases, and leasing options available for homeowners, and both options have value.
Most homes will need a solar assessment, during this time your solar specialist will evaluate the roof space, measure your energy needs, and design a solar array that will fit on your roof and provide you with the energy needs you require.
Low-Cost Solar Panels for Your Home
Getting into an affordable solar array is a great way to power your home with natural energy and reduce your dependence on fossil fuels. Going solar will also reduce your dependency on the local solar companies, which in time will save you money on your monthly energy bills.
Things to Consider for Residential Solar Energy
If you are in the research phase of your solar purchase, you will want to think about the payment process and what will work best for you. Leasing solar panels is a great option if you don’t have the cash to put down on an investment that big. Also, leased panels are covered by a warranty, so parts and labor should be free during the duration of your lease.
If it is not free, I would consider looking elsewhere for solar. Purchased solar has its benefits, it will cost you less in the long run, but maintenance and repair will be your responsibility.
You will also want to think about adding a solar battery at some point. So there are some things to think about in that regard before committing to either option. Going solar isn’t as easy as getting power from your local electric company, so there are some installation questions to consider.
1. Landscape
Your solar panels operate best when they are exposed to direct sunlight. Making sure your solar specialist helps to coordinate the positioning of the panels will ensure that you get maximum performance from them.
Towering trees, buildings, and other nearby structures could impact the amount of daily sun exposure you receive, so make sure they are positioned to maximize their exposure time.
2. Insolation Value
Insolation rating or insolation value measures the amount of daily solar radiation that can hit your property in any given area, at specific times of the day.
It is generally measured in kWh/m2/day and is a very important consideration to tell if your home is in an ideal location for residential solar. Your solar specialist should be able to generate a report indicating the amount of insulation your property will be exposed to.
3. Roof Structure
There are a few things to consider before mounting a solar array on your roof. You will want to be sure you have the physical space to house the mounting brackets, panels, anything else that might already be mounted to your rooftop.
You will also want to make sure that your roof’s surface is made of a mountable material. There are certain roof types that you can’t mount solar brackets on, so consulting with your solar specialist about that prior to lease or purchase will be necessary.
4. Cost
The cost of going solar has dropped substantially over the last decade. Going solar now is more affordable than ever. With government rebates available, now is the time to consider converting to solar.
Solar is a long term play, while it may seem that it’s costing you a lot of money upfront (if purchased), the long term savings are definitely a reward for your patience.
Conclusion
No doubt there are many pros and cons to going solar, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. To learn more about going solar, contact a solar specialist in your area to help consult you on the purchase/lease and installation of your solar panels.
