Solar power is the energy harnessed from the rays of the sun. The photovoltaic cells in it convert light to electrical energy. It is one of the cleanest, most cost-efficient, and most sustainable energy a household can utilize.
Nonetheless, there are some factors you need to think about before opting for a solar panel installation in your household. These factors are indispensable in your decision-making process.
1. Weather and Location
Is the house in a suitable location and weather for solar power?
Weather and location come side by side. Different seasons come and go in various states where the climate ranges from hot, dry summers to cold, snowy winters with seasonal rainfalls. PV panels require direct sunlight to work. It is not advisable to go solar if you live in a significantly cloudy or rainy area.
Moreover, during summer or hotter months, air conditioners and fans are working relentlessly, which may affect your monthly utility bill. On the contrary, during winter or colder months, the heating systems run all day to keep you or your family comfortable.
2. Roof Style
What is the current state of your roof?
Investing in a solar system would also mean designing the best roof to match it. The condition, material, layout, and angle make an excellent performing roof suitable for solar power. Let’s say the roof angle. If the roof angle is directed toward the sun, the solar system will produce a significant amount of solar energy. In addition, the performance of a solar panel on a roof depends highly on the direction your roof is facing.
On the other hand, it is unlikely to install PV panels on roofs that are old, overly-steep pitched, or flat. Trees around your property or shades from other buildings are also a no because they can limit sun exposure and reduce the solar system’s effectiveness. Therefore, it is best to inspect your roof to meet the standard requirements to support solar installation.
3. Energy Usage
How much energy does your household consume?
Whether you reside with your family or live alone, the type of lifestyle can also influence your energy consumption. Different households have different energy usage. The more you consume electricity, the higher the figures in your monthly bill.
Daily activities such as taking a shower that uses a water heater, keeping your rooms cool using the air-conditioner, and using the computer when working from home, contribute to the computation of your electric bill. Furthermore, the size of your house and the number of rooms and people living in it can also impact energy consumption.
Some appliances utilize a lot of energy, like the refrigerator, water heater, air conditioner, clothes dryer, dishwasher, and computer. Using energy-saving appliances to these appliances as alternatives is a matter of importance in cutting down costs. If you add solar power, it would also help save money depending on the amount of energy your household consumes.
4. Financing Options
What are your financing options?
There are several financing options you can go for when deciding to go solar. You can opt for paying upfront or opt for a solar loan. It is similar to other loans where you can pay a small down payment and cover the balance through monthly fees. It allows you to purchase and own the solar system as well.
Another option is to lease a solar array. A third-party owner (TPO) owns, installs, and maintains the solar system on your home. Though it will not qualify you for rebates and incentives, the electricity rate the TPO will charge you is lower than the market price. At the end of the lease contract, it is up to you whether you purchase the PV panels or uninstall them.
There is another option similar to a solar lease which is the power purchase agreement (PPA). There is a predetermined monthly amount in this financing option based on the actual energy produced that you will pay.
By the way, some states have incentives or rebates for those people who decided to switch to solar. State tax breaks and government rebates are financial incentives you can consider to reduce the cost of going green.
One More Reason To Go Solar and Save
Reliable and Quality Installation
There is nothing better than a reputable solar company whom you can turn to in your dire times. A professional solar company knows solar panel installation and maintenance like the back of their hand. If you have an inquiry or anything that seems unclear, the company will be more than happy to respond.
ACES Lyfe, a trusted solar company in Utah, is here to help answer any questions you may have about going solar and, eventually, saving a lot in your utility bill. Contact us today to request a quote.