Many homeowners are considering switching from their standard electric services to solar power. Investing in the equipment needed to get started is a major commitment, however. You should be sure that this environmentally friendly way of generating energy will work for your home before doing so. How do you know if solar power is right for you?
To find out if your home can benefit from solar energy, this little guide will give you food for thought!
How much sun do you get?
The first thing you should consider when it comes to getting solar panels is how much sun you get. South-facing roofs tend to receive the most sunlight, but it’s still possible to successfully install solar panels on a roof that faces a different direction. Be sure to spend some time outside to see how much sun your roof actually gets on a normal day.
You also want to make sure nothing stands in the way of your home and the sun. A property surrounded by tall trees or other features that cast long shadows can hamper your home’s ability to generate solar energy.
Consider the conditions of your roof
Solar panels are an investment that usually lasts over forty years. Because they are going to be installed on your home for the long term, you need to make sure that the surface they will be glued to is in good condition. If your roof needs repairing or replacing, you need to take care of this major expense before switching to solar power.
Check with your homeowners association
Investing in solar panels helps reduce your carbon footprint on earth and significantly reduces your monthly electricity bills. However, you may have some restrictions that you don’t know about yet. If you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, there may be regulations in place that you will need to follow if you want to install signs on your home. Be sure to check with them before installing new panels to ensure your home meets their guidelines.
Evaluate your energy bill
Energy costs are not the same around the world. If you live in an area with high electricity rates and use a fair amount of electricity to power your home each month, you might want to consider solar panels. A good rule of thumb is that solar panels can save you money if you’re spending $75 or more per month on your electric bill. For those spending less than this amount, you can still reduce your carbon footprint by installing solar panels, but you may not see as much savings.
Call the professionals
If you are looking to buy solar panels in canada, you need to make sure that you are working with reputable professionals. SRB Energy can help you calculate exactly what you need to keep your home running smoothly with solar power. Whether your goal is to save money, reduce your carbon footprint, or completely disconnect from the grid, we can help!