How to Know If Solar Power is Right for Your Home
Nowadays, a lot of people have already used or tried the wonders of solar power. Some homeowners use solar energy to power their entire home while other just use it on certain purposes like home heating and cooling system. Because of the availability of solar components and lower prices these days, a lot of people can now afford to switch to solar unlike many decades ago. With so many benefits it offers, solar power is indeed a wise investment for every home.
However, there are still some factors that need to be considered before installing a solar power system in your home. Before anything else, you need to know if solar power is really right for your home. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the right decision.
Consider the Roof
The roof is one of the most popular and ideal places to install solar panels at home. South or west facing roofs are the most optimal direction when it comes to rooftop solar since it gets maximum amount of sunlight with those directions. There should also be no obstructions and shadows covering the roof since it affects the efficiency of the solar power system. Lastly, it is important to have the right roof size to accommodate the panels on it.
Climate
Although solar systems work more efficiently when there is more sunlight exposure, the panels could still function even when it is cloudy or even snowy. However, it will take longer time to produce the energy you need when it is cold and there is not much sunlight present. Solar power systems work great in places that receive a regular amount of sunlight at most times of the year.
Electricity Rates
If the electricity rates in your place is soaring high, then it is the right time to consider going solar. No matter how you use it – whether fully off grid or still tied, you could greatly save in your electric bill with free electricity coming from the sun. Although you’d need to invest in the installation costs of solar, the savings you could get in the long run would offset all the costs later on.
Incentives
A lot of states offer incentives to their clients who are using solar power in their homes or businesses. Different incentives are offered by different states. Usually, they give tax reductions or rebates when you bring back excess energy back into the grid. With all the incentives offered to people, it is really appealing to switch to solar.
Check the Regulations
Lastly, some places have rules and regulations regarding installing solar power system in homes. Before getting one installed, check the regulations in your area first to avoid legal issues and to be sure that your new project won’t be wasted.
If you still haven’t made up your mind yet, you could consult an expert to know if solar power is fit for your home or not. They could also help you out in planning the project once you decided to go solar.