A home-solar system can produce enough electricity to provide energy for your average annual consumption. Depending on the system, your location and incentives offered by government, the payback period can be anywhere from ten to twenty-years. Home solar systems can cut your electricity costs, and earn you tax credits. But, it can be costly to install a solar system at home.
Solar panels installed on your roof
There are several key points to remember when it comes to solar panels being installed on your roof. First, you need to make sure that the roof you have is strong enough to support the weight of solar panels. The direction of your roof may also influence the amount sunlight that can reach solar panels. Professionals recommend that you face south and place your panels at an angle of 180 to 195 degrees.
Once you have established the right orientation, it is time to install solar panels on your roof. The panels will work better in the winter when the sun isn’t shining as brightly. This is why you should choose a spot with a south-facing rooftop. The panels should not be set up in a way that causes a lifting effect on your roof. Otherwise, they could be blown off.
Cost of installing solar panels
The cost of installing solar panels for your home is dependent on many factors. The type of solar panels you choose and the wattage they produce will also affect how much it costs to install them. Before you start looking into different systems, figure out your energy usage. This is important because your monthly electric bill will give you an idea of how much electricity you use each month.
Another factor that affects cost is the type or mounting system. Solar panels installed on a south-facing roof at an angle of 30 degrees will significantly reduce their cost. The cost of solar panels can be reduced by having them installed on one roof plane. Additional equipment may be required for homes with multiple levels or dormers. This could increase the cost.
Solar panels installed on your roof qualify for tax credits
You can get tax credits to install solar panels on your roof. This will help offset the cost of installation. You must meet some conditions to qualify for the credit. The roof should not be in a state that prohibits the installation of solar panel. Also, your roof must meet solar-friendly standards. This means you might need special shingles or decking.
First, determine if your state offers tax incentives for solar power systems. Your state's policy on renewable energy may determine whether you are eligible for federal or state tax credit. The federal credit applies to the cost of installing solar power systems, while state credits are applied to the total costs. In addition, some states offer up-front rebates to help you get a solar power system installed. These rebates could reduce your solar panel cost by up to 10%.
Maintaining solar panels is expensive
Although most solar panels don't require active maintenance, some homeowners choose to buy an annual maintenance package. These packages include cleaning, pest control, and checks to the electrical system. These packages aren’t quite as common as commercial solar systems, but they can add hundreds of dollars to the total cost.
Solar panels can last from 20 to 30+ years with little maintenance. It is important to keep them clean and free of debris. The panels can be cleaned with a gardenhose.