Getting Solar Panels? 3 Things To Think About Before Installation Day
Posted on: 27 August 2019
Solar panels are the modern answer for lowering energy costs, reducing your dependence on the local power grid, and protecting the environment. However, many people encounter a few surprises along the way when they invest in solar panels. Here are three things to carefully consider before installation day so you can enjoy the transition to solar.
1. Curb Appeal
Which side of your home are they thinking about installing the solar panels on? Typically, panels are placed on either or both of the west and south-facing sides of your home. Unfortunately, depending on how your home is oriented, the west or south of your home could be visible from the street, which could impact the appearance of your house. Before you have solar panels installed, ask professionals which side they would want to place solar panels, and what they can do to minimize the appearance. Look at the panels in person to see how they would appear on a roof, and ask to see other customer's homes.
2. Return On Investment
While your solar panels can save you some significant money every month on your energy bills, you should also think about the upfront cost of installing panels, and how long it will take your investment to pay for itself. Think carefully about the total amount of the investment, how much the panels will save you every month, and the amount of time it will take for you to pay off the panels. If the investment seems high and it would take a long time to appreciate the value, think about shopping around to see if other businesses have better deals on solar equipment.
3. Maintenance
If panels become dirty or covered with fallen leaves, you may need to brush them away to enjoy the greatest energy output. Talk with professional solar experts about how much maintenance panels need, when they typically need it, and what you can do to outsource the maintenance if you are mobility-impaired or concerned about the timeline. Make sure you have the right equipment on hand to handle any maintenance if you do decide to do the work on your own. Making the decision to shop for solar panels is a big one, so take your time shopping. In addition to checking out a business's reputation and commitment to customer service, think about the quality of the solar panels they are offering. By taking the time to do your research, you may be able to improve your overall experience.
Get started by consulting solar companies near you.
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