Solar panel systems have a bright future in the roofing industry and for home and building owners alike. Solar panels, also known as solar photovoltaic panels are excellent tools for reducing monthly electric bills, providing clean power, lowering dependence on traditional fossil fuels, and adding value to a home or building. Installing rooftop solar panels is one of the best ways to increase the value of a home or building. And, not to mention the fact that federal legislation extended a 30% tax credit for commercial and residential solar panel installations.
The following “7 Steps to Installing Solar Panels” can be used to guide both commercial and residential customers through the solar panel shopping and installation process, and help make it as smooth and easy as possible.
1. Make your home more energy efficient. xem them
Before you begin the solar installation process you first need to examine the energy efficiency of your home. Adding solar photovoltaic panels to a home with poor energy efficiency is not going to provide the results you expected. In some states to be applicable for the tax credit your home needs to have an energy audit performed before the solar panel system is installed, making your home’s energy efficiency paramount. Here are some tips to make your home more energy efficient:
* Upgrade or replace windows
* Well insulate walls and attic
* Replace inefficient hot water heaters and/or furnaces
* Replace incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs
2. Evaluate the solar site or roof.
Ask yourself a few questions: Is the roof strong enough to support the panels? Is the available space large enough to hold the panels? Does the roof offer southern exposure? And most important, does your roof receive enough sun light? Solar panels are recommended to receive full sun exposure between 9am and 3pm in order for them to be the most effective.
3. Get competitive bids.
Solar panels are a big investment, but done correctly they can provide a significant return and increase the value of a building or home. Shop around a little and find the best price. But be aware; don’t just look for the cheapest price. Find a well established retailer and installer with a strong track record. Educate yourself and ask the right questions, because sometimes a higher costing solar system might be the better option, and in the long run provide a higher return on your investment.