A solar panel system can be a great way to cut back on your home’s carbon emissions. But before you install a solar system, there are some things to consider.
First, make sure you hire a properly licensed installer for your solar project. This will help to reduce your costs and make your installation easier.
Cost
The cost of solar panel installation varies depending on several factors. These include the type of panels you choose, the quality and brand, your roof’s characteristics, and labor costs.
Your electric bill, location and incentives can also affect your overall cost of solar. It’s best to consult with a trusted solar contractor and bring your energy bills in for an estimate.
A good contractor will calculate your kilowatt hour (kWh) usage over a 30-day period and determine the number of solar panels you need to meet your home’s needs. The wattage of your panels is also important.
A solar installation company will also charge for permits, inspections, and labor. This is why it’s important to comparison shop as you would for any big-ticket purchase. You can use the solar marketplace EnergySage to find reputable companies with customer reviews, certifications and Better Business Bureau profiles.
Energy output
There are many factors that affect the energy output of your solar panel installation. One of the most important factors is the number of sunlight hours your home receives per day.
Once you know your hourly wattage usage and the number of sun hours your area gets, you can determine how much power you need from your solar panels. This is a crucial factor in deciding which solar system is best for you.
To calculate your solar panel’s wattage capacity, multiply your hourly power generation needs by 1,000 and then divide that number by the number of daily peak sunlight hours your area receives. For example, if you have an average hourly wattage of 30 and your home gets five peak sunlight hours each day, your solar panels need 300 watts.
Installation process
Solar panel installation is a fast and easy process that can be completed within a few days. First, a professional engineer will visit your home to assess its roof and electrical panel.
Next, he or she will calculate the number of panels you need. This is based on how many hours of strong sun you get, your energy usage, and the wattage of your panels.
Once you have a good idea of the size of your system, you can begin ordering equipment and obtaining permits. Depending on your state, this could take weeks or months to complete.
After a permit is issued, your solar installer will set up an appointment to install the solar panel equipment. This includes wiring the panels, installing a racking system, and connecting the inverter to the power grid.
After your system is connected to the grid, you will receive your first Con Edison bill, which should show your solar energy production. This is also the time to apply for any tax credits, rebates, or other incentives that may be available in your area.
Maintenance
Solar panels are a great way to save on your energy bill, but they also need maintenance to keep them functioning well. Thankfully, solar panels are fairly easy to maintain.
In general, solar panels only need to be serviced about twice a year. However, it is best to check with your solar company for panel specific maintenance care.
For instance, if you live in a place that experiences a lot of snowfall, you may need to do extra maintenance work more often than if you lived in an area with a lot of rainfall.
Another good way to tell if your solar panels need maintenance is by monitoring their performance online. If you notice a small drop in production, that is probably an indication that something is wrong with your system.
