With the increase in energy costs and concern for the environment, many homeowners are thinking of solar electricity for home as a renewable and sustainable solution. Yet, there are so many systems and technologies to choose from – not to mention many options for installation- finding the right setup can seem overwhelming.
By considering the options below, this article will help you find a system that’s right for your house and budget, while maximising potential savings and return on investment.
Assess Your Energy Needs
When it comes to choosing the best solar electricity for a home type, knowledge is power. The best starting point for determining which system is right relies on your current and anticipated energy consumption. Such that we mean, take a look at your monthly electricity bills and think about consumption patterns. A solar professional can take this information and size a system so you’re producing as much power as is fair for your needs, without over-generating.
It’s also worth thinking about lifestyle factors that could influence future energy use, such as working from home more frequently or buying an electric vehicle.
Evaluate Your Roof and Property
Not all homes are created equal, where solar is concerned. How well your system works will also rely very much on the orientation, pitch, and shading of your roof. Roofs that face south generally capture the most sunshine, though heavy shade from adjacent trees or buildings can hamper system performance.
A site assessment will help determine whether a rooftop or ground-mounted system makes sense. Some homeowners may also elect to add battery storage to their home solar power system to maximise the use of solar energy into the evening.
Understand System Types and Components
The two main types of solar electricity for home systems are grid-tied and off-grid. Grid-tied systems are the most popular and enable homeowners to pull electricity from the utility grid as power is needed —and to send extra back through net metering programs. Off-grid systems are less frequent and cater to isolated properties unable to connect to the grid.
Major components of a residential solar system are panels, inverters, rails, nd batteries (not required). Knowing how each part works in concert can assist you in making decisions on efficiency, quality, and pricing.
Review Product Warranties and Installer Experience
Quality panels usually have 25-year performance warranties, but the installation should also be covered by a workmanship warranty. Experience, licensing, and certifications also factor into consideration when selecting an installer. Transparent pricing and regular communication are also very important along the way.
Just Solar, for instance, touts “decades of support” and designs customized systems for the energy profile and architectural attributes of each home. Their full-service solutions range from design consulting to post-installation monitoring, to ensure the process of switching over to solar power is fulfilled and dependable.
Plan for Incentives and Financing Options
Fed solar tax credit, state rebates, and local home solar incentives bring the cost of home-based electricity generation down. Solar loans, leases, and PPAs are available in several markets for homeowners.
These financial instruments help to lower the barriers to entry of solar, reducing the need for capital expense. Take the time to compare and determine which option fits your financial plan and energy strategy.
Design for Long-Term Value
When selecting a solar electricity system for your home, you aren’t just covering your electrical needs right now. Ideally, a well-executed installation should increase the value of your home, lower utility costs over time, and lead to more responsible living.
Pair that with a well-designed solar panel setup for a house (i.e., optimal positioning and high-end components), and the system can ensure decades of quality performance.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing like switching over to solar electricity for the home, a decision that extracts serious financial and environmental benefits in the long run. You have the freedom to choose a solution tailored to your home with an independent energy audit. You can determine a perfect fit for your home by evaluating how you use energy, the size and shape of your building, and the type of system features that positively affect you.
You also work with an experienced installer who will manage the process for you and ensure it‘s simple, clear, and tailored to suit your energy needs. With the ever-increasing need for cleaner and renewable energy, now is a better time to switch.
