An increasing number of people now want an environmentally friendly home, lower electricity charges, and a reliable power source. Invariably, investments in solar-powered homes have been on a steady rise over the last couple of decades.
People are incessantly contacting industry professionals to install solar panels, large-scale energy plants, and several other devices that run on the unending source of energy from the sun.
For those who have not invested in solar homes yet, here’s a quick overview of its critical aspects:
What is a solar panel?
Potent and inexhaustible solar energy comes from the sun in the form of intense light. This light from the sun contains energy particles called photons. And solar power panels, also called PV panels, are used to convert this light into energy that can easily power electrical loads.
Panels like these are used for a variety of applications such as telecommunications devices, remote power systems for secluded cabins or homes, and to produce electricity for commercial and residential purposes.
What are the benefits?
Having solar-powered panels at home can unlock several benefits for users. Some incredibly significant ones include the following.
- Compatible with various climates – These panels ensure you have electricity and hot water even on cloudy days. That’s because the sun’s heat is so intense that it can reach the solar cells even through thick clouds. However, you must ensure there are no solid obstructions such as trees or walls.
- Cost-effective – Since a solar panel operates on solar energy, your electricity bills will be much less than traditional bills that result from coal, oil, or natural gas use. Also, there are Federal, local, and state tax incentives offered to owners of solar panel systems.
- Reduces carbon footprint – These panels are safer to use as they do not emit any hazardous gases such as carbon dioxide and sulfur that damage the environment. Moreover, it does not contribute to air and water pollution.
- Boost property value – Potential buyers are more likely to invest in a property with such systems than homes that do not have them. Therefore, solar systems can boost property value by a vast margin.
How to tell if your rooftop is solar panel compatible
There are a couple of vital things you must take into account when looking to install solar rooftop systems. For starters, study the tilt and direction of your roof. Although it is not a hard-and-fast rule, these panels perform best on south-facing roofs with a slope between fifteen and forty degrees.
Also, you should note how much sunlight your roof gets every day because panels need unhindered light to be effective. If there are obstructions such as chimneys, massive trees, imposing walls, or buildings, they are likely to impact how useful your solar panels will be.
How much do residential panels cost?
The exact price of a panel depends on the state and capacity (system size) of the unit.
But generally, a brand new unit will cost approximately $12,000, after Federal tax incentives. A high-end Tier 1 model can cost anywhere around $40,000 and more. However, you can also choose to have a smaller one installed for around $5,000.
The initial purchasing cost notwithstanding, you need not spend a high amount on maintaining a solar system unit at home. Regular cleaning and maintenance are all you need to boost its already lengthy shelf life.
Where to buy them
You should exercise considerable caution when purchasing solar power panels for your home or office use. Look for licensed and reliable vendors who are transparent about their offers and services.
You can ask for their work portfolio and browse their website for client reviews, certifications, current discounts, and other authentication.
Several solar companies provide regular servicing and maintenance as well, besides installing panels on your roof. It is prudent to hire such professionals for easy and hassle-free installation.
