Over the years, many homeowners have considered shifting to solar energy as an alternative source due to the number of benefits that solar power provides. For one, it can provide households with a reliable power source, especially during a power interruption. And as more and more people are becoming more aware of how their actions affect the environment, shifting to a renewable approach to power your home is becoming a preferred choice.
It’s also believed to be cost-effective in the long run due to how much homeowners can save on monthly bills. For instance, depending on where you live, households pay 25-30 cent per kilowatt. Considering a solar panel system as an alternative power source or a way to go off the grid can help you save on your monthly utility bill.
Although the benefits are promising, it’d be good to note that there are several factors to consider when deciding whether solar power would be a suitable choice, and these include:
1. The Upfront Cost Of Solar Power
One of the essential considerations if you have plans to switch to solar power is the upfront cost. For many, the upfront cost can still be unnerving, even if the prices of solar panels have dropped significantly in recent years.
Generally, the upfront cost will largely depend on the size of the photovoltaic (PV) system that best fits the needs of your household. Remember that the bigger the system, the more you’re expected to shell out when investing in a solar system for your home.
2. Your Home’s Location And Roof Inclination
The location and the roof inclination of your home are crucial considerations to keep in mind before shifting into a solar-powered home.
To maximize the capacity of your solar panels, they should receive adequate sun exposure. Ideally, they work best in locations with continuous sunlight coverage. Consider it an advantage if you’re residing in a location that receives constant sunlight throughout the year. And in such circumstances, you can opt not to depend on the main grid anymore and utilize the solar power you generate.
Aside from getting adequate sunlight, the roof inclination will also be an important factor in maximizing your solar system, and this is where calling professionals come into play. Before the installation, solar companies will assess the proper placement and orientation of the panels to ensure adequate sunlight exposure. On the other hand, as the homeowner, see to it that there’s no obstruction. For instance, if there are trees within your yard, cut or trim them down regularly to prevent shade on your panels.
3. Energy Requirements Of Your Household
If you have plans to shift to off-grid living, solar power may be capable of powering your home. But it’s essential to assess your household’s energy requirements and the types of appliances you have at home before doing so, especially since this can help determine the type of system suitable for your needs.
Moreover, you also have to decide whether you want to be partly or completely disconnected from the grid. Generally, if you want to go off the grid completely, you’ll need a more powerful solar power system to generate your home’s power needs.
4. Future Needs And Demands
A solar panel system generally lasts for many years, especially when you have the right configuration for your solar system. With this in mind, it’s crucial to consider any possible changes to your energy consumption. For instance, if you’re planning a solar panel system for your home, think about your plans, such as adding appliances or equipment that are likely to consume a higher amount of power than the current ones you have.
5. Maintenance Requirements
Switching to solar power entails significant investment, and it’s only essential to take the necessary measures to maintain it and prolong its life. Hence, as you make the switch to a cleaner source of power, you should also be ready to dedicate some time to its upkeep.
To start, cleaning the solar panels regularly is important since allowing dirt and debris to accumulate on them can minimize their ability to capture sunlight. You can use water to clean the panels, but avoid using soaps with strong chemicals since they can corrode the panels. Aside from regular cleaning, it would also be best to do routine inspections by professionals to ensure all components function properly.
Final Thoughts
As one of the renewable energy sources that are gaining popularity among many homeowners, it may be time to consider a solar-powered household soon. But before switching to solar power, note that there are valuable considerations to determine if solar power is suitable for your current household needs. While the list above is not absolute, it can be a good start in helping you make a well-informed decision before shifting into a solar-powered household.
