Solar panels are a big investment, and while they usually pay for themselves within a few years, that doesn’t mean you should rush into getting them for your own home without first doing your research and considering your situation.
This blog post covers all the questions you should ask when you’re deciding if solar power is right for you.
How Much Will Solar Panels Cost?
The first thing to find out is how much solar panels will cost for you.
The price of installing solar panels will vary depending on the size of the system you need, your location, and the installer you choose. Contact a few different local providers to get quotes, so you can compare their prices and offerings before you commit to a system. It’s also well worth looking into government incentives, like Residential Clean Energy Credit, that can reduce your upfront cost.
What’s the Return on Investment?
Like any investment, you want to know how long it will take to get your money back from buying and installing solar panels.
The best way to get a good understanding of ROI is to ask the installer to give you a payback period based on your energy usage and location. You can generally expect to break even in six to 10 years post-installation..
How Much Energy Will Solar Panels Produce?
The amount of energy your solar panels will produce depends on a few different factors, including your location, system size, and roof orientation.
With that in mind, you should make sure to ask your installer to give you a detailed analysis of how much energy the system will generate in your specific circumstances. You want to make sure the system helps you greatly reduce your reliance on the grid.
What Size System Do I Need?
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for solar panel systems, given that they’re customized to each individual household’s energy needs.
So, another question to ask is what size system you’ll need for solar power near me. Make sure your installer does an assessment to determine the right system size for you so you can generate enough energy without spending too much upfront.
How Long Do Solar Panels Last?
Solar panels are a long-term investment, but that doesn’t mean they’re all designed to last the same amount of time.
Most solar panels come with a 20-25-year warranty, which gives you a good idea of their lifespan. During that period, it’s normal for the panels to lose some efficiency, but you should still see a good return on your investment. Before you spend your money, ask the installer about the warranty terms, the maintenance you’ll need to commit to, and what’s included.
How Do I Monitor System Performance?
The final thing you’ll want to know about solar panels is how you can track the performance of your solar panels and get a good idea of how much you’re saving.
Most solar panel systems come with features for tracking the energy they’re generating. Ask your installer if the system has an app that you can use for this purpose, making it easier to stay on top of your energy generation.
Conclusion
Asking the right questions before you install solar panels will help you make sure your initial investment meets your needs and expectations.
Take your time to research, compare quotes, and choose a good installer. When you’re armed with the right information, you can make an informed decision to reduce your energy bills and your carbon footprint.
