Installing solar panels in your home is a huge decision—one that requires careful planning and preparation. Here are 5 tips to help ensure a successful residential solar panel installation.
Select the Right Contractor
Finding the right contractor is essential for a successful solar panel installation. You’ll want to make sure that they are experienced in the installation of residential solar systems and have a good track record.
Ask for referrals from friends and family, and check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints filed against the contractor. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, ask for quotes from each of the contractors and compare them carefully.
Be sure to ask about the warranty on the system and how long they expect it to last. You’ll also want to get a copy of their insurance policy and make sure that it’s up-to-date.
Know the Available Incentives
Most homeowners are interested in solar panels not just because they’re good for the environment, but because they can save money on their electricity bills. And luckily, there are a lot of incentives available to help make the switch to solar more affordable.
The federal government offers a tax credit of 30% of the cost of your solar installation, and many states and local governments offer additional incentives. So do your research and find out what’s available in your area. You can read more about Residential Solar Panel Installation Phoenix here.
You may also be eligible for a no-interest loan from your local utility company, or you could sell your excess energy back to the grid. There are a lot of options, so it’s important to explore all of them and find the one that works best for you.
Understand the Finances
It’s important to understand the finances behind a residential solar panel installation. That’s why you should sit down with your installer and go over the numbers.
How does this work? Well, the government offers a number of tax incentives for people who install solar panels, and these can really bring down the overall cost. Your installer can help you navigate all these incentives, and he or she should be able to give you a good idea of how much your installation will cost.
You’ll also need to think about your monthly electricity bill and how much you’re willing to spend on solar panels. Remember, you’ll be saving money in the long run, but there may be a bit of a upfront cost.
Get the Proper Permits
It’s important to get the proper permits before installing solar panels on your roof. That way, you can be sure that everything is done according to code and that you’re not going to run into any problems down the road.
Your solar panel installer should be able to tell you what permits you need and help you through the process. But don’t wait until the last minute—these things can take a while, so it’s best to start the process as early as possible.
Prepare Your Home for Installation
Now that you’re ready to go solar, it’s time to start preparing your home for installation. Here are a few tips to get you started:
1. Clear the area where the solar panels will be installed. Make sure there’s plenty of space for the crew to work.
2. If you have any trees or other obstructions nearby, trim them back or have them removed. The solar panels need to get direct sunlight for the best results.
3. Inspect your roof for damage and repair any leaks or broken tiles before the installation begins. You don’t want the solar panels to be damaged in any way.
4. Check with your local utility company to see if you’re eligible for any rebates or incentives. The government is offering some great incentives for people who switch to solar energy.
5. Plan ahead and make sure you have everything you need for the installation crew. They’ll need access to water and power, and you might want to have awnings or tents set up to provide shade while they work.
Conclusion
Picking the right installer is key to a successful Residential Solar Panel Installation. Do your research and find a company with a good reputation and who is licensed and insured.
Be sure to schedule an appointment with your solar installer so they can come out and do a site survey. This will help them better understand your homes energy needs and determine the best placement for your solar panels.
Work with your installer to choose the right solar panel system for your home. There are a variety of systems available, so be sure to pick the one that fits both your energy needs and your budget.
Be prepared for some changes to your homes appearance once the solar panels are installed. While many people are surprised at how good they look, some homeowners do prefer the more traditional look of solar panels on the roof.
Lastly, be sure to contact your local utility company and let them know you have installed solar panels on your home. They may be able to offer you special incentives or discounts on your energy bill.