Solar energy is not limited to a specific group of people – just about every country around the world is adopting solar energy and taking steps to reduce their impact on the environment. Solar panels have become relatively inexpensive over the years, so they are more readily available to homeowners.
Before getting solar panels installed, you must first ask yourself if they are right for your home. Let’s go over some questions to keep in mind when determining if solar power systems are an ideal solution for you.
In which direction does the roof slant?
The direction of your roof needs to be considered first and foremost, as this determines how efficiently your panels will collect energy from the sun. In Australia, the ideal direction for home solar energy panels is north-facing. The ideal direction of your roof will depend on your region, as different locations have different requirements. For example, in the United States solar panels do better on roofs that are facing south.
How much shade does the roof get?
A heavily shaded roof isn’t the most ideal for solar panels, as the sun will be partially blocked and panels will not collect as much energy as they would in full sunlight. You may need to trim trees if they block the sun’s access to your roof. A tall building or a hill could also cause problems, so assess your roof’s exposure to the sun if you want to get a better idea of how well home solar energy can work for you.
Do any repairs need to be made on the roof?
Your roof needs to be in satisfactory condition in order to get solar panels placed on them. In fact, the better condition your roof is in the less problems you may face down the road. Once solar panels are placed, removing them to perform repairs to the roof can be expensive and elongate the process. If your roof needs any repairs, get them done before placing solar panels.
The decision to get solar panels placed on the home is not a small one – it’s a big investment that takes careful planning and consideration if you want the best results. A technician can assess your home to make sure that solar panels can be placed without issue, reducing your energy bills along with your carbon footprint. Do ample research and ask yourself these questions before getting started with solar panels.
