We invest in many things to make our properties more efficient and useful, and one of the best property investments you could ever have in recent years is a solar panel installation. With solar panels, you can save money – and more than this, you can take advantage of an endless, renewable energy source: the sun. But if you are seriously considering installing a solar panel system on your property, there are several things to think about before taking the first steps. For instance, an important consideration would be the type of panels, and another big consideration would be your choice of installer and the actual installation process. Needless to say, each factor can significantly impact your solar panel system’s effectiveness (and longevity). So what do you really need to consider before installing solar panels on your property? Let’s find out.
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Your energy consumption
Before deciding on the proper solar installation for your needs, it is vital to understand your energy consumption in the first place. Knowing how much energy you currently use makes it easier to determine how many solar panels you need to install to meet your energy requirements. Perhaps you can conduct an ‘energy audit’ of your property to know how much energy you consume and where you can make cutbacks in order to optimize your panels’ performance.
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Type of panels
Whether you are having a residential or commercial solar installation, know that there are different types of panels available, each with its own unique benefits – and each with its own drawbacks as well. Some of the most common kinds of panels include monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film panels. Monocrystalline ones are the most efficient and longest-lasting, but note that they are the costliest. Polycrystalline ones are less efficient than the monocrystalline panels but are more affordable. On the other hand, thin-film panels are the most inefficient – but are also the friendliest on the budget. That said, look carefully at your requirements and limitations and choose accordingly.
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The placement of the panels
Another factor to consider would be the placement of your panels, as their placement is critical to how effective they would be. For instance, the ideal placement is a south-facing roof with no shading from trees or other obstructions, but if your roof is not south-facing (or has shading), you may have to install the panels on a different portion of your property or consider other alternatives, like ground-mounted panels.
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The installation process
The installation process is complex and should be done only by a professional installer. Check out different companies in your surrounding area and choose one with the best reputation and lots of experience. You may also want to consider the warranty and the panel manufacturer.
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Cost
Solar panel installation can be quite expensive, so you also have to think about it. It is worth knowing about financing options to help you offset the expense. For example, options include taking out a loan, leasing the solar panels, or having an agreement with the installer. Look at different options for financing and choose one that best fits your financial situation and budget.
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Maintenance
The good news is that solar panels require little maintenance, but you should keep them clean and free from dirt and debris to ensure their optimal performance. You may want to hire a cleaning service or purchase a cleaning kit to keep your solar panels in tip-top shape.
Image attributed to Pixabay.com
Tags: Installing, Solar Panels
