Factors to Consider Before Purchasing and Installing a Solar Power System
Purchasing a solar power system is a big decision that requires serious thought. It is a long-term investment that will be installed in a residential or commercial space for 15-20 years. So, it is crucial to select and purchase an adequate, durable system from reliable sources. Learning about the different elements of solar system installation and the factors to consider before making a purchase can help one make an informed decision.
Factors to consider before purchasing a solar power system
The type of panel you want
- Photovoltaic, which uses arrays of cells to convert sunlight into electricity.
- Thermal, which uses sunlight for domestic purposes such as heating water or air.
Depending on the usage you are considering for your solar panel, you can choose the perfect option for your home.
Size of the panel
No matter the size of your roof and the space on it, you should purchase the right size of solar panel solely based on your needs. You may consult the solar power installer in this regard.
Durability
This is a crucial factor, and you should ensure that you move forward with installing a durable solar power system.
Warranty
You check the warranty offered with your solar power system. When expenses are incurred on maintaining or repairing them, warranties can come in handy.
Provider maintenance
Before purchasing panels, check with the company about their maintenance system. Most companies provide yearly maintenance in the purchasing package; if it isn’t included with the system you choose, you must ask for it.
Cost of solar panels and installation
This is a necessary factor to consider before purchasing a solar power system. Ask the company about all the costs related to buying solar panels and their maintenance so that you have clarity of the expenditure being incurred.
Factors to consider before installing a solar power system
Check if the place of installation is robust
Once the solar panels are installed, they may even work for as long as 30 years in some cases. Therefore, you should ensure that your roof is robust and prepared and meets all the facilities needed to install a solar panel. After the installation, removing the solar panels to carry out some work on the roof is difficult, and it can cost you a fortune.
Estimate the time you intend to stay in your present home
If you have a job that might require your transfer to another place, or if your home is rented and you do not have a permanent home of your own, we suggest you do not get a solar power system installed there. These systems come with an expense that cannot be incurred repeatedly, and thus, it might not be possible for you to install solar panels wherever you go.
Check if your house is suitable for the installation
Before moving forward with the installation, you should ensure that your home and roof are appropriate for the solar power system installation and would not cause trouble to the panel in the long run. Check for the following factors.
Number of trees surrounding the house
If there are huge trees surrounding your house, the solar panels might not receive adequate sunlight, as the trees will offer them shade.
Large buildings
If you live amongst large buildings or skyscrapers that keep your roof covered with shade for most of the year, getting a solar power system might not be beneficial for you as they need sunlight to harness its energy.
The direction of the roof
The placement of solar panels should be done according to the direction of the roof and the area you live in. For example, if you reside in a south-facing home, the solar power system should be placed north-facing and vice versa.
Time of usage
The time when you need or use solar energy the most should also be considered before installing the solar panels. If you want more electricity in the mornings, your solar panels should be east-facing, while if you require more energy in the evening, west-facing panels will benefit you.
Powering your home with solar power systems is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your utility bills. The amount of power a solar power system can generate depends on a variety of factors, including how much sunlight your location receives, the size of the system you install, and the type of equipment you use. Remember, the more sunlight you can capture, the more power you can generate. Keeping all these things in mind and getting consultation from a reliable and the best solar company near you, you can get a solar power system installed. It is advisable to compare different companies and systems before buying and installing one as investments like these are made rarely in a lifetime, and thus, you would want them to be perfect.