Top 10 solar mistakes to avoid when buying solar for home

Upgrading to solar for home can be undoubtedly a daunting task, especially if you are not sure where to start and what mistakes to avoid.

Dec 22, 2021
       
system for home

Upgrading to solar for home can be undoubtedly a daunting task, especially if you are not sure where to start and what mistakes to avoid. Long-term investment of this scale urges you to research all possible outcomes meticulously and then make a final decision.

Residential solar for home appears to be relatively simple, but it is intricate and requires intelligent decision-making. Here we recognize the top 10 myths and mistakes potential customers make and avoid them.

Worrying how your roof orientation will affect your solar energy

A major myth is that the angle of your roof and its direction wouldn't allow you effective solar installation. While there's some truth to this fact, it doesn't necessarily have to impact your plans to upgrade. Engineers have designed such advanced and efficient solar panels that roof orientation might be the least of your concerns.

Be it the shade from surrounding trees or the opposite direction tilt of your roof, the efficiency of solar energy equipment causes only about 10% to 15% of ideal energy output. Such a minimal loss is seen as negligible in the face of the more significant benefit that allows you to save money in the longer run. Customers can resolve this by figuring out your household's maximum peak consumption times.

However, it is crucial to ensure that your roof is sturdy enough. Therefore, it is recommended that you refurbish your roof at the same time as you install solar. Doing this will allow you to save smartly on extra costs and labour rather than putting it off.

Not determining the ideal size of solar for the home.

At this point, it is mandatory to throw out the one-size-fits-all thinking. Every home is unique, and each household has different requirements, thus selecting a solar for home a complicated one. This is comparatively a simpler obstacle to tackle. Most solar panel advisors look over every aspect and narrow down the most suitable quote.

Because it's not as easy as getting a solar power system that fits your energy demand, they'll ask you what your financial goals are and how much you're prepared to pay to achieve those goals. Some aspects to consider are:

  • The home's dimensions
  • Your typical energy usages
  • Plans and long-term objectives

Additionally, customers may have another question, how can you determine what size is right for your home?

First, check your previous electricity bills to see how many kWh of electricity you used. Then, add up the last four quarters to determine how much power you use each year.

Delaying in hopes for cheaper battery rates

The recent trend in the rates for complete solar kits for home shows a lean towards much more affordable rates. With this thought in mind, many potential buyers put off their investment towards installing residential solar, looking forward to price drops in the home battery categories. Here's why it might not be wise to wait for that to happen. Electricity demand and consumption are skyrocketing daily, and with more investments in sustainable energy resources, the government has incentivized such purchases to promote a greener policy.

Now is the optimum time to get solar as solar subsidies and redeeming plans are still available. In addition, consider the government's recent stimulus package, which included an immediate asset write-off for industrial establishments.

The current need to switch to these sustainable energy sources defines how the government incentivizes investors. While decreased power costs and energy efficiency are still benefits, the availability of programs and incentives makes owning solar more appealing.

Getting only limited Quotes

Because upgrading to a solar plan is an arduous task, it requires maximum attention. Do not rush this intricate process, and take your time to go through every step diligently. Holding onto this advice, it is also recommended for you to obtain multiple quotes and not decide your entire solar installation plan based on one. Obtain as many quotes from various installers as possible. Acquiring many quotations takes time, but it is advantageous. You'll be able to see who has the most acceptable deal. At the same time, you'll be aware of dishonest businesses that provide expensive equipment and services.

Blindly trusting Installers

By now, the importance of researching and looking into the process deeply has been reiterated many times; however, it is essential to pay heed to this advice to avoid the mistakes most consumers make and regret. When purchasing a solar system, you should make the same effort as any other major purchase. Steer clear of installers who refuse to answer your queries and only amuse those who are willing to buy.

Start by looking at the installer's website and read some of the credentials. Before making a decision, do some research about the brand and speak with a representative. You have a lot of choices, and you must do your research before investing.

Not looking into warranty.

A good warranty makes a deal more attractive; however, it is essential to realize the warranty types and applications. A complete guarantee covers the solar panels and inverter you have. Never fall by the installer's ruse of telling you that the system has to be maintained once a year or so. As long as you follow the provided manufacturer's and installer's directions, your guarantee will be valid. You won't have to pay any upkeep costs, which means you'll be able to preserve your warranty. Customers are immediately provided warranty on purchase of solar systems, which lasts for the specified period.

When you purchase a solar system, you will receive three different warranty. What you want to look for in terms of warranty is:

  • Your inverter comes with a 5-year warranty.
  • A 25-year Linear performance warranty covers your solar panels.
  • A 1+9-year warranty covers the workmanship.

Not taking into account the residential solar subsidy.

Being unaware of hidden advantages that not most people know about can be a significant disadvantage to your investment. It may not allow you to fully unlock the economic returns of your investment that they should. Solar energy for household is a cost-effective way to power your house, and homeowners know that subsidies are available. Most individuals, however, are unaware of how much money they may save by acquiring and installing solar panels.

Although rebates might be complicated, that is no reason for not understanding how to compute your returns. The solar rebate is provided by the government (federal), whereas the state government regulates the feed-in tariff.

Your eligibility for these incentives may be determined by the solar panel design and purpose; thus, it would be better to see your eligibility first.

  • Solar Power on the Grid: These solar panel systems connect directly to your utility grid and do not require backup batteries. You'll use the grid to augment the energy generated by your panels during the day.
  • Solar Power Off the Grid: Solar panels supply the power that your home demands in an off-the-grid arrangement. It is completely disconnected from the primary utility grid.
  • Solar Hybrid: A hybrid solar system combines the finest features of both systems. You have access to the grid's (primarily) uninterruptible electrical supply. You'll also utilize special batteries and inverters to store excess solar energy for use on days the sun is hidden behind the clouds.

Failure to equip your solar system for the future

The residential solar system should last at least the next 25 years. Your electricity demands may fluctuate during this period. Always keep your future requirements and expectations in mind. Although most solar energy systems may be paired with battery storage to increase capacity and add efficiency, there are multiple things to consider before concluding. When you're eager to upgrade like a battery, ask your solar panel company advisor how your solar system would need to adapt or advance.

Prioritizing a cheap system over a pricey one

You're probably considering going solar because of the cost savings. However, there is no way to save money on the solar array you build by cutting shortcuts.

Remember that while buying inexpensive solar panels may appear to be the best option today, upgrading defective or damaged system components can cost you more money in the long run.

However, this certainly does not suggest that you must get all of the greatest solar batteries and disregard little solar power cell since larger batteries must be superior.

Ignoring Certifications and Permits

It's crucial to understand what segments of your property are forbidden, and the restrictions may vary depending on where you live. This might cause a significant disruption in installing your solar energy system. We encounter the most typical scenario when a homeowner applies for a permit and upgrades their house. However, their pending permit may not be closed if they completed an update but never received a final inspection. This might be a deterrent to obtaining a new permit and extending the time it takes for you to reap solar potential.

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