5 Essential Tips For Installing Solar Panels

If you’re responsible for bills in your home, you likely won’t be surprised to find that energy costs are on the rise. Unfortunately, we rely on energy for staying warm and cooking food, meaning we’re clearly not going to cut off those utilities anytime soon.

However, there are ways to cut your bills each month. One option for homeowners to decrease their energy costs is to invest in solar panels, which provide a renewable energy source for your home.

Are you gearing up to purchase solar panels? Check out this list of five tips for installing solar panels before getting started.

1. Know Your Roof

This information obviously needs to be something you consider immediately. If your home is in a shady area and doesn’t get much consistent sun, a solar panel energy system will likely not work for you.

If you find your home won’t work or you live in a shared complex, there are still options available. Check out community solar options around you.

2. What Type of Solar is for You

Before diving into installing solar panels, do some research on the available options. One option will turn the sunlight into energy that can be used by any appliance.

The second option, called thermal, uses sunlight to heat water or air. This possibility can be a smart choice if you spend more on heating fuel compared to electricity costs.

Fewer homes go the thermal option though, so you may have to do a lot of research to find an installer.

3. Lease or Buy

Making this call when installing solar panels will be individual to your home. You’ll need to do a cost-benefit breakdown to see which option will save you the most money.

Buying your panels costs a lot initially, but you’ll own the system and it can cut down your costs in the long run.

Leasing means the company that owns it can take away the system at any time. They also typically decide upon a rate you’ll have to pay for the energy.

4. Be Sure Your Installer is Trustworthy

It’s important to find someone who will do a great job when installing your panels. If you choose someone inexpensive who isn’t trained properly, it may end up costing you much more down the road.

Always choose the most professional technician you can find to avoid stressful issues.

Check their credentials and seek out references. It’s also a good idea to use a company that has been around for a while to ensure they’ll be able to service your panels for their lifetime.

5. Keep Your Solar Panels Clean

You may think your solar panels are a leave it and forget it system, but that is not the case. Pollen, dust, and other debris can build up on the panels making it able to absorb much less energy.

Keeping the panels clean and clear will ensure your system produces the highest amount of energy possible.

Get Started on Installing Solar Panels Today

By taking these 5 steps towards solar energy, you’ll cut your monthly bills and do your part to protect the environment.

Have some lingering questions? Ready to talk plans specific to your home? Contact us and we’ll be happy to help you find the perfect solution.

Signal Alarms and Electric is an electrical contractor in Southern California providing full capacity electrical contracting services for new construction, renovations, tenant improvements, service upgrades, exterior, interior and landscape lighting, retrofits and service installations in the Southern California/Los Angeles County area.