6 Solar Panel Installation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Across America, homeowners are waking up to the benefits of solar power. More than two million homes across the country now have solar panels installed, with residents benefitting from more affordable, sustainable, and tax-deductible energy. If you have finally decided that now is the time for lower energy bills provided by solar power, Dynamic Solar PV is here to help. Installing solar panels is a delicate process, one that you will definitely want to get right the first time. With that in mind, here are the six most common solar panel installation mistakes that you need to avoid.
1. Ignoring the Structural Integrity of Your Roof
While solar panels might seem lightweight, this is no guarantee that your roof can bear the load. Solar panels can easily add several hundred pounds of weight to your roof.
Therefore, it is essential that you arrange an inspection to ensure that your roof’s structure is strong enough to host solar panels. Failing to do so could make the cost of installation significantly higher.
2. Forgetting About the Aesthetics
When opting for a solar panel installation service it’s easy to overlook the aesthetic influence of the panels on your home.
It is actually possible to choose solar panel designs that add to the curb appeal of your home rather than looking like an eyesore. By choosing a solar panel installation company that offers sleek black solar panels, you can enjoy clean energy without paying an aesthetic price.
3. Not Knowing the Difference Between Off-Grid and Grid-Connected
If you are switching to solar, it is crucial that you decide where your excess energy will be stored. In an off-grid plan, your solar system is not connected to your state grid. This means that you will need to arrange your own system for power storage.
A grid-connected system allows you to store excess solar power in your local grid. You can then draw on this energy as needed.
4. Not Taking Advantage of Incentives
One of the main benefits of solar energy is the rich tax incentives offered by the government to households that go solar.
One of the most generous of these is the Federal Solar Tax Credit (STC), which allows you to deduct 26% of the cost of installation from your tax bill. Across many states, further tax incentives exist for households that commit to solar.
5. Sizing It Up Incorrectly
This one might seem obvious, but it is surprising how often people get this wrong. You are responsible for choosing the panels you use and deciding how many you need. This means you need to decide on the size of your solar system.
Have a long island solar panel installer (or a similar specialist in your area) measure your roof’s surface area carefully to make sure that you don’t have too many solar panels or not enough. Getting the measurements just right is key.
6. Choosing a Lease
Finally, it is worth warning against the cardinal sin of solar power. Some companies will offer you a lease, wherein you basically ‘rent’ the solar panels from the provider. Do not do this.
This will cost you more in the long run. In addition, it will make you ineligible for any form of tax credit.
Avoiding Panel Installation Mistakes Is Just the Start
By knowing how to avoid panel installation mistakes, you can ensure that your home is beautiful, sustainable, and self-sufficient.
If you are looking for more simple ways to ensure that your home truly is your castle, we have got you covered. Make sure to consult our House & Home section for expert tips on how to make your home perfect for you and your loved ones.
