As the cost of solar panels continues to decline and as awareness of their many benefits grows, an increasing number of homeowners are considering adding solar panels to their homes.
If you’re among them, you’ll want to do your research before making a purchase. Here are some tips to help you get started.
The Quantity and Quality
The first thing you’ll need to decide is how many solar panels you need. To figure this out, you’ll need to estimate your average monthly energy usage. Multiply this number by the number of hours in a day that the sun is shining (you can find this information on weather websites or apps). This will give you an idea of how much energy your solar panels will produce each month.
On the other hand, finding out how much energy you need is a bit more complicated. Start by looking at your past energy bills. The amount of electricity you use each month will be listed there. Look for any months where your usage was higher than usual, as these will be the months when you’ll need to generate the most power.
You’ll also want to consider the quality of the solar panels you’re buying. Not all solar panels are created equal – some are more efficient than others which you can find out more here. You can also find out a panel’s efficiency by looking at its “solar panel rating”. This number indicates how well a panel converts sunlight into electricity. Generally speaking, a higher rating is better.
Cost and Warranties
Of course, the cost is another important factor to consider when purchasing solar panels. The price of a panel will vary depending on its size, efficiency, and brand. To get an estimate of how much it will cost to outfit your home with solar panels, you can use the advantage of free and fast quotes from the top solar panel providers.
When comparing prices, be sure to also look at the warranties that each company offers. This will give you an idea of how long the panels are expected to last and what kind of coverage you’ll have if something goes wrong.
Another important thing to consider is the company’s customer service. You’ll want to make sure that you’re working with a company that will be easy to get in touch with if you have any questions or problems.
Easy Installation
When it comes to installation, you’ll want to make sure that the process is as easy as possible. Some solar panel kits come with everything you need for a quick and easy installation. Others may require some additional work, such as drilling holes in your roof or running wiring.
You may also need to hire a professional installer, which will add to the overall cost of your project. However, many solar panel companies offer free or discounted installation services. Again, this is something you’ll want to factor into your decision when choosing a company to work with.
On the other hand, if you’re handy and have some basic electrical experience, you may be able to install the panels yourself. This can save you money on installation costs, but it’s important to make sure that you understand the process before attempting it.
Which Panels are the Best?
The truth is that there are a lot of great solar panel options on the market, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
SunPower Solar Panels
SunPower is one of the most well-known and trusted solar panel brands on the market. They offer high-quality panels that are designed for easy installation. Additionally, their customer service is excellent, and they offer a 25-year warranty on their panels.
SunTechSolar Panels
SunTech is one of the most popular brands when it comes to solar panels. They offer both monocrystalline and polycrystalline options. SunTech also has a very good reputation when it comes to customer service. They also offer a 25-year warranty on their products.
Government Subsidy
You may also be eligible for a government subsidy. The amount of the subsidy will depend on where you live, but it can significantly reduce the cost of your solar panel purchase. In Australia, for example, the federal government offers a rebate of up to $8,000 for eligible solar panel installations.
To find out if you’re eligible for a subsidy, contact your local or state government. They’ll be able to tell you what’s available in your area and how to apply for it.
Additionally, many solar panel companies offer financing options to help make the upfront cost more manageable. This can be a great option if you don’t have the cash on hand to pay for the panels outright.
In style solar panels are a great way to save money on your energy bills and do your part to help the environment. With a little research, you can find the perfect panels for your home and start reaping the rewards of solar power.