Before deciding whether solar panel are worth it, there are several important factors you should consider. These include the costs, payback times, and impact on property values. Although solar panels are an option that may work best for some homeowners, it is not always the best. Solar power can also depend on the shade and location of your roof. In general, solar power is best received from south-facing roofs.
Costs
While the prices of solar panels can vary depending on where you live, they are typically much more affordable than traditional power companies. Solar systems can even lower utility bills, making it a popular choice for homeowners. Although solar panels are not cheap, they can help you lower your utility bills and contribute to a greener environment.
Calculate how much you pay for electricity each month before making a decision on whether or not to have solar panels installed. Divide that figure by your average utility provider's rate. You can then use a solar energy calculator online to determine the cost of installing solar panels.
Period of payback
Solar panels' payback time will vary depending on many factors such as how much electricity you use and how large your system is. A rooftop solar array usually costs less than a ground- or pole-mounted system. However, adding premium solar panels or a battery bank will increase the cost. Premium panels, for example can stop food from spoiling or your sump pump not running during a severe storm.
First, find out how much your electricity bills fluctuate. To calculate your payback period, use the electricity bill from the six previous months. Other cost variations, such as seasonal temperatures, can also be included. Solar panels can be paid off in twenty-five to twenty-five year periods, depending on how much you use.
Impact on home prices
The effect of solar panels on home prices varies depending upon the size and location of the system. According to one study, solar panels can increase home value by as much as 4%. However, the original study was carried out seven years ago. It isn't clear whether this same effect will exist today.
Many real estate agents believe adding solar panels will increase a home's worth. They also claim that a typical solar home buyer can save hundreds of dollars per month, depending on the size and amount of electricity used. Although these savings are not significant, home owners should consider the maintenance costs. Solar installations are seen by many buyers as a win-win scenario. They are prepared to pay as little as $4 per watt to have a solar-powered home.
System size
A number of factors affect the size and shape of a solar panel system. The first is how much electricity your average household uses. In the United States, an average home uses around 10,400 kWh annually. Therefore, solar panels must produce at least the same amount of electricity. Residential solar panels usually produce between 350 and 450 watts. Depending on the specific use, you might only need 17 400-watt panels to produce enough electricity for an average American home.
In addition to solar panels, you must have an inverter to convert the direct current (DC) from the sun into alternating current (AC), which is needed to run most appliances and machinery. It is crucial to choose the right type of inverter to suit your system. This will determine the efficiency of your solar panels.
Maintenance
Easy steps can be taken to maintain your solar panels. It is easy to do and cost-effective. If your panels face a lot of traffic, dust, and other debris can build up. You should clean your panels often in these cases. To remove dust, you can use soapy or warm water. However, soapy water evaporates quickly leaving a film on your solar panels. You can hire a professional cleaner if you are unable to reach your panels.
When cleaning solar panels, wear a hard hat as well as a protective harness. You can also clean your solar panels with mild detergent. You can also hire a professional to clean your solar panels if you don't have time or the tools. It's easy to find someone to clean the panels using a free quote.