Solar energy is becoming a popular choice for people looking for more energy-efficient homes. This is because solar costs are lower than ever. Low prices combined with better battery technology for using solar at night makes running a solar home appealing.
If you’re planning on installing solar panels on your roof, there are a few things you need to consider first. Below are four things you should consider before deciding if investing in solar is worth the money.
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1. Examine Your Roof’s Condition
You can’t put solar on any roof out there. It needs to be in good condition and be shaped to take advantage of it.
You may need to get a new roof if it has enough damage. This can cause your price to rise dramatically.
You also need to consider what kind of slope your roof has. If your solar panels don’t have reliable exposure to the sun, you aren’t going to be able to take full advantage of your solar panels.
2. Consider Your Payback Period
While you are going to save money on your electricity bill every month after going solar, you’re going to have a significant upfront investment. You need to understand how long it will take for you to see a return on your money.
Figure out how much electricity your home needs to run and how much energy your solar system will provide. You may still need to pay some money for your electricity bill every month, so make sure to consider that.
Once you have these numbers, you can figure out how many years it will take for your solar system will pay for itself. Make sure that this period makes sense to you if money is a reason for going solar.
3. Decide If You Want to Lease or Own
The upfront cost of solar might be out of reach for many people. The good news is that it doesn’t mean you’re out of luck.
If financing is an issue, work with a company to lease your solar panels. You’ll pay a monthly fee to use your panels instead of paying for them with your own money or with a loan.
Compare the cost of a lease to your current electric prices. If your monthly fee is cheaper, leasing is a great option. Many companies will also do free solar panel installation if you commit to a certain amount of time for your lease.
4. Find a Good Contractor
Not all solar panel installers are created equal. The lifespan and efficiency of your panels will be impacted by the skill of the people working on it.
Make sure to look at reviews of contractors before hiring one. You want to find a business that has a history of good work.
Installing Solar Panels on Your Roof Shouldn’t Be Done Lightly
Yes, installing solar panels on your roof sounds great when you first think about it. The problem is, it might not be worth the investment. Make sure to keep the above points in mind so you don’t put money into a solar system you can’t make the most of.
If you’re looking to add more to your home after you finish your solar project, our blog can fill you in on the details. Read our latest posts to learn our latest tips.
