Do’s and Don’ts of Shopping for Home Solar
Using solar energy to power your home offers many benefits. Not only will you be able to shrink your carbon footprint, but you will be able to decrease your utility bill and save quite a bit of money.
Of course, switching to solar energy requires planning and consideration, and it can be difficult to know where to begin when shopping for solar panels. Here are some things to consider before going solar from the solar energy pros at Solar Bear.
Things to Do:
Location, Location, Location
Before you even purchase solar panels, you need to ensure that you have a place to put them. Many solar panels are mounted on the roof of your home, but older homes may require repairs or modifications before they can support solar panels. Solar panels can be installed in yards in some locations which can be a potential alternative if a roof install is unfeasible.
No matter their location, you’ll want to make sure that they are faced in the optimal position to get the most sunlight exposure. In the southern hemisphere, solar panels should face north where they will receive the most direct light throughout our sunny Florida days. If large trees are blocking your roof, you may want to get them trimmed back so you get the most sun exposure possible.
Get an Energy Audit
By getting an energy audit done, you will know how much energy your home or building needs and uses daily. There is not much point in installing solar panels if they won’t provide enough energy for your needs and you end up needing to supplement the deficit with regular electricity.
Further, you want to reduce energy output as much as possible before installing solar. Upgrade appliances and switch to LED lighting wherever possible. This not only will benefit your energy audit, but it will ensure that your solar system will be able to supply enough electricity once you switch to solar.
Check to See if You Need a Permit
Before installing solar, you’ll need to look into city codes and see if you need a permit. Every city, county, and state has different rules and regulations when it comes to installing solar on residential properties, so be sure to comply before moving forward.
Applying for necessary permits can take some time, so be patient!
Things to Avoid:
Never Cut Corners
When installing solar, never cut corners to save money. While you might think that you can save a few dollars by installing solar yourself, it is best to get them installed by a professional company like Solar Bear to ensure that they are installed correctly.
Steer clear of cheaper materials and panels. Cheaper materials are cheaper for a reason and can end up costing you more money in the long run.
Don’t Forget to Research
Installing solar panels is an expensive endeavor and one that should not be decided on lightly. Do your research so you are fully prepared when solar companies give you a quote. A lack of knowledge will only end up costing you money.
Don’t Perform Energy Audits in the Wrong Season
You won’t get an accurate calculation if you get an energy audit down in the off-season. Assess the energy usage during the season where the most energy will be used, such as the hot Florida summers here in Tampa Bay.
If you base the installation of solar panels on the low energy months, you will be left short of energy in those months when your energy needs increase.
Expert Solar Panel Installation
Avoid costly mistakes and call the pros at Solar Bear for a solar panel installation quote today! We can help you decide which kind of solar panel system is right for your needs, and right-size the perfect solar panel array for you. We also offer home energy audits to help you save the most money and ensure that your home is energy efficient!
Contact Solar Bear for free estimates on solar panel systems in Tampa Bay, Orlando, and across the state of Florida at 813-567-8484 in Tampa or 407-904-7585 in Orlando. Save energy with Solar Bear!