America has more than 240,000 solar panel installation workers. The demand for these workers has increased by nearly 160% since 2010.
Solar energy outshines coal and other sources of energy. It is reliable, cost-efficient, and recyclable; hence it’s ever-rising demand.
However, its installation requires careful planning and considerations. When buying, you should avoid lucrative advertisements, and instead, focus on the vital aspects.
If you are planning to install solar power, our solar panel installation guide will help you know what to consider when buying.
Hopefully, these tips will help you make a wise and informed decision.
- Understand the Types of Solar Panels
Currently, there are three main types of solar panels. They include the polycrystalline, monocrystalline, and thin film.
Then different types have varying features in terms of their appearance, functionality, and aesthetic appeal.
Monocrystalline panels, for instance, are the most costly, yet, the most energy-efficient. They also have a great appearance, which boosts the appeal of your roofing.
Thins films are portable, lightweight, and affordable. However, they have the lowest efficiency or performance features.
Review each of the available options and choose the best.
- Decide on the Mounting System
Mounting systems determine the design and functionality of the solar energy system. The mounting also provides maximum support to prevent the panels from tilting during heavy rains.
There are more than ten mounting systems that depend on where you intend to place the solar panels. You may consider the railed mounting, flat roof racking systems, and rail-less mounting for roof panels.
For ground panels, you may consider the foundation mount, pole mount, multi-pole mount, and ballasted method, and so on.
Find out the pros and cons of each mounting method. For best results, hire a professional to help you choose the ideal plan.
- Know Your Energy Requirements
Your power requirements significantly affect your buying choice.
For instance, you will need the most energy-efficient panels if you have many electrical appliances. These appliances could include refrigerators, solar air conditioners, lights, and so on.
Also, the power-efficient panels would be ideal if your primary reason for switching from electricity is to save energy.
Calculate your daily or monthly energy requirements, and then find the best panels that could satisfy you.
The panels are usually labeled, and you should, therefore, experience fewer challenges in choosing. Your seller can also guide you in choosing the right solar panels for your home to help you make an informed decision.
- Compare Prices
Get different price quotes to know the average costs of the various panels.
Ideally, you may compare the prices online. For best quotes, you may need to engage all the top solar companies.
After that, narrow down your choices depending on your budget, and other price determinants. For instance, some panels may be pricier because of the additional features attached to them.
Some brands are more pricey than others, but it would still be okay if the panels are durable and worth it.
For best deals, you can negotiate too if it is allowed.
- Choose the Right Seller
The number of solar panels sellers has increased to meet the high demand.
Each seller boasts of amazing deals and incredible services, which may not always be accurate.
You should, therefore, be keen on the seller, or panels’ installer you hire. The ideal supplier should have proven years of experience in the solar energy industry.
They should also be licensed to carry out the solar panels business.
You may get the right seller through references, recommendations, or through the leading online sites for solar installers.
- Consider the Warranty
The average warranty for modern solar panels is twenty years. However, some solar panels are still working forty years later since their installation.
Do not buy any panel unless you understand the warranty requirements. Since the average warranty period is twenty years, you should avoid any solar panel whose warranty spans less than a decade.
The short warranty will be an apparent sign that the solar panel is not of the best quality.
Make sure that you understand the terms and conditions for the warranty to reduce inconvenience should you return it.
- Beware of Sales Agents Tactics
The best installers trust their work, and so, they don’t need to pressure the buyers. As such, you should avoid any sales agent who urges you to buy the panels.
Also, you should avoid the ridiculously low priced deals and enormous discounts which look too good to be true.
For your safety, do not trade with anyone you don’t trust. Such decisions may easily land you into severe problems in the future.
- Consider Maintenance Requirements
The maintenance requirements may vary depending on the brand, the mounting system, and the type of panel you install.
Some brands, for instance, require monitoring systems to track their performance. Others have minimal requirements meaning that you don’t need to check on the panel, provided that it is getting maximum sun rays.
As you buy, it will be helpful to ask about the cleaning and maintenance needs. Some installers may give you a brush, and show you how to clean or wipe dust periodically.
- Ask Questions
Solar panels are a valuable investment. You should, therefore, ask the right questions to avoid making costly mistakes when using it.
Ask about how the panel works, and how long it can take to pay itself. Also, ask about the necessary roof changes that you should make to fit the new panels.
When you ask the right questions, you will be confident with the solar panels, and you will know how to handle the small problems on your own.
You may keep a record of the answers your get for future reference.
- Consider the Durability
How long do you intend to wish the solar panels? If you live in a rented house, the chances are high that you might relocate.
In that case, you will need only a temporary solar panel. Besides, you may choose to rent rather than to buy the solar panel.
If you want a permanent solar panel, then it would be realistic to purchase the best panels. The initial installation might be costly, but the results are worth it.
Solar Panel Installation Guide: Invest Wisely
The process of buying solar panels might be exciting and overwhelming.
With thousands of similar options, you may quickly get confused, and maybe, buy the wrong solar panels. So, understand the solar panel installation guide well before you go to the market.
Solar panel installation is one of the best home improvement projects in 2020. However, there are so many other things you can do to make your home the best. Check out our other articles on diverse topics on food, family, and life.
Leave A Comment