Getting solar power and mounting PV panels at your home is a decision that will reward you and your pocket for many years through cheap electricity bills and freedom from power companies. Nevertheless, as it will be the first time installing solar panels, some challenges may arise making it seem complicated. Below are some of the primary things that should be followed strictly to guide the installation process of a solar panel system.
Research Installers Thoroughly
One of the best things that you need to do is spend time and ensure that you have done your homework in terms of identifying potential installers of solar products. What is the best solar company to choose? Here compare multiple solar companies and get their price quotes. Have more specific questions regarding their service, licenses, guarantee and insurance, equipment, and so on; it is also recommended to go through the feedback and consult previous clients. Do not make a decision based on the price of an installer as it may lead to poor quality work, equipment, or workmanship being used. Spend time evaluating installer knowledge before finding yourself in a position where you can’t afford to do so.
Understand Roof Condition Needs
In the majority of instances, solar panels are installed on the roof of your home meaning that it must be in good condition in the first place – fix any leakage, old shingles, or structural problems before getting solar installation. Depending on the status of the roof, some of the repairs or even full replacement may be reasonable if you are also planning to make an investment that is longer than 20 years, which requires placing solar panels on the roof. Discuss with both your roofer and solar installer the best what is available that you can consider for your home. As a homeowner, be prepared to learn that the costs of roofing can be included in the total costs of the solar system.
Account for Panel Visibility
Disregarding the appearance of solar panels is a big mistake because you will be looking at them for years, so talk to your installer about how they will show up and whether any other design considerations matter to you. General appearance, roof size, slope and orientation, size and layout of individual panels, and the roofing materials are some of the factors that may affect the overall perception of the structure. Other more attractive panel options such as the shingle solar systems are also available and fit in your roof, though they are costly than the traditional systems. Homes with panels that face the front of a house will be more conspicuous than those with panels towards the back of the house or in otherwise hidden areas of a roof.
Provide for Time to Inspect and Obtain Permits
There are stringent regulations that every region has its code of regulation which most often includes building permits and inspection by the city at various stages of the installation process including before commencing work, after the initial panel masts are installed, and after the full system and electrical connections have been done. This simply helps to check all the electrical and structural safety regulations but it does take a little bit of time in the complete setup. Ask your installer about how long they will be able to complete the job and if the permits are included in the final cost or if they will present extra charges. Knowing when these inspections occur helps one to anticipate and possibly strategize around the final solar system approval processes.
Switching to solar power is a long-term investment for your home that will ultimately benefit the residents for many years. It provides your panels with the correct preparatory steps to set up seamlessly the first time through. Switching to solar energy requires a good partner, and with ADT Solar, the process is seamless. Contact us today to begin your Clean Energy Revolution!