Is My House a Good Candidate for Solar Panels

• Determine how much your electricity bill is
• Consider your physical location and climate
• Determine the material and condition of your roof
• Determine your roof’s orientation and angle
• Evaluate tree cover and obstacles
• Research any required permits

Are you thinking about how to cut down on your electricity bills? If so, then consider harnessing energy from natural sunlight through solar panels. Renewable energy sources such as solar offer a broad range of advantages, including the reduction of your utility bills. They also help shrink your carbon footprint, which contributes to sustainable living goals. However, making the switch from conventional power sources requires careful planning. You should explore various considerations to gauge whether your property is ready for solar energy. If you've ever asked yourself, "Is my house a good candidate for solar panels?" here are the key things to consider before deciding.

To answer the question, "How do I know if solar is right for me," first find out how much you spend on electricity each month. This helps you gauge whether switching to solar power will save money. If you pay more than $75, then you're a potential candidate for solar energy. There are various options to help you switch to solar, with some integrating with Internet of Things (IoT)-powered smart home devices. You should therefore ensure to pick a system that offers maximum savings and functionality.

The general rule of thumb is to pay less than your current electricity expenditure and save money by generating clean energy on site. Since solar systems replace utility energy with solar energy, they offer a good return on investment (ROI).

From rainy areas to places with extreme heat, solar energy is harvestable in a broad range of climates. Solar suitability checker tools help you understand how climate can affect solar on your house. Consider having a consultant visit your home to get accurate information on your potential savings.

High-efficiency solar panels can convert direct and indirect sunlight into electricity. This enables them to harness solar energy even on the cloudiest of days. Do you live in areas prone to harsh and adverse weather? Be sure to choose panels with high durability ratings if strong storms and frigid winter temperatures are common occurrences.

Before buying a solar power kit, you need to make sure you have a suitable location to mount panels. Although most solar panels support use on roofs, you can also place them in yards if your roof is fragile.

Solar panels often require sturdy roofs made from tough materials such as composite, concrete tiles, standing seam metal or asphalt shingles. Other roofing materials like slate or wood shake tiles, clay with mortar and composite coated steel will need professional installation of solar panels. Another important factor to consider is roof size. Size dictates the number of panels you can physically fit.

A key consideration before buying solar panels is your roof's condition. Evaluate the current condition of your roof to ensure it can tolerate the weight of your solar system. With some lasting for 35 years or longer, solar panels are durable pieces of equipment. If your roof needs replacement soon, do it before installing solar panels to save costs.

Replacing a roof that has solar panels would involve the tedious process of removing the panels and reinstalling them once the roof work is done. Given that savings from renewable energy like solar can cover the cost of re-roofing your home in as little as a few years, it's better to err on the side of caution and upgrade your roof before solar panel installation.

For optimal electricity generation, panels need exposure to the maximum amount of sunlight. In the Northern Hemisphere and regions such as North America, south-facing rooftops capture the most sun. Because the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, this orientation enjoys morning and afternoon sunlight.

If you do not know the orientation of your roof, you can use satellite images to determine this accurately. Roof angles also play a vital role when installing solar power kits, with a 30-degree slope being ideal. Solar panels with surface areas that receive adequate illumination between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., when sunlight is strongest, perform best.

Does your house get enough sun for solar panels? Any obstacles that cause shade may limit the efficacy of your solar panels. To ensure optimal output, avoid areas that get shade from obstacles like chimneys, vents, buildings, antennas, and cables. You can also trim large trees that block sunlight. Note that shading may change with seasons as the sun's path changes.

Consider consulting professional solar providers if unsure of the orientation of your home. Most professionals use satellite imagery to map the direction of the sun through the course of the year and advise on the best place for the installation of solar panels and batteries.

Solar panel installation needs approval from property owners. If you're renting or leasing the home, seek authority from your property owner. Although some property owners may be reluctant to spend money on solar investments, letting them take advantage of factors like an increase in property value and other tax write-offs can help convince them to help finance a solar installation.

In some areas, you may also need to get permits from your city or state government before installing solar panels. While requirements differ by area, you may need to file for a building or structural permit, an electrical permit and possibly a dedicated solar photovoltaic (PV) permit.

With an array of issues to consider before installing solar power kits, let renewable solar energy be part of your lifestyle and enjoy sustainable living. It pairs well for those who do their own gardening and composting or who travel using electric vehicles. Good luck with your new investment.