what i wish i knew before going solar

3 min read 27-12-2024

Going solar is a big decision—a significant investment in your home and the environment. While the benefits are numerous (lower energy bills, reduced carbon footprint, increased home value), there are aspects many homeowners overlook before taking the plunge. This article shares what I wish I'd known before installing solar panels, helping you avoid potential pitfalls and make an informed choice.

Understanding Your Energy Consumption & Needs

Before contacting solar companies, analyze your energy usage. Obtain your energy bills for the past 12 months. Look for patterns in your electricity consumption – are there times of year when you use significantly more energy? This helps determine the appropriate system size. Don't just focus on your current needs; consider future usage increases (e.g., electric car, heat pump). Overestimating is better than underestimating, although it will increase upfront costs.

Key Questions to Ask Yourself:

What appliances consume the most energy? Identifying these helps prioritize energy efficiency upgrades before or after solar installation.
Do you plan to add electric vehicles or other high-energy appliances in the near future? This impacts the size of the solar system you'll need.
How much shade does your roof receive throughout the day? Shade significantly reduces solar panel efficiency.

Choosing the Right Solar Installer

The solar industry is booming, but not all installers are created equal. Thorough research is crucial. Don't just pick the cheapest option. Look for reputable companies with experience, positive customer reviews, and a strong warranty. Get multiple quotes, comparing not only price but also the quality of components, system design, and warranty terms.

Due Diligence is Key:

Check for licenses and certifications: Ensure the installer is properly licensed and insured in your state. Look for certifications from reputable organizations.
Read online reviews: Pay attention to both positive and negative reviews to get a balanced perspective. Focus on recurring themes in the feedback.
Ask about their experience with similar projects: Ensure they have experience working on projects similar to yours (roof type, system size, etc.).
Inquire about financing options: Understand the various financing options available, including leasing, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and loans.

Navigating the Permitting and Inspection Process

Permitting and inspections can be time-consuming and frustrating. Understand the process in your area beforehand. Your chosen installer should handle most of the paperwork, but be prepared for delays and potential issues. Knowing what to expect reduces stress during this phase.

Understanding the Process:

Local regulations vary: Research your local building codes and permitting requirements before you begin.
Expect delays: The permitting process can take several weeks or even months, depending on your location and the workload of local authorities.
Keep open communication: Maintain open communication with your installer throughout the process to address any questions or concerns promptly.

Understanding Net Metering and Your Utility Company

Net metering allows you to sell excess solar energy back to the grid, offsetting your electricity bill. However, net metering policies vary widely by state and utility company. Understand your utility's net metering rules before making your decision. This directly impacts your return on investment.

Important Considerations:

Net metering rates: Understand how much your utility pays for the excess energy you generate.
Potential changes in net metering policies: Be aware that net metering policies can change over time, impacting the long-term value of your solar investment.

Long-Term Maintenance and Costs

Solar panels are durable, but they require some maintenance. Understand the ongoing maintenance costs (e.g., panel cleaning, inverter repairs) and factor these into your overall investment analysis. A good installer will provide information on warranty terms and maintenance plans.

Long-Term Costs:

Panel cleaning: While infrequent, panel cleaning may be necessary depending on your climate and environment.
Inverter replacements: Inverters have a shorter lifespan than panels and may need replacing eventually.
Warranty coverage: Check the length and scope of the warranty provided for your solar panel system and individual components.

Conclusion

Going solar can significantly benefit your home and the environment. However, careful planning and research are essential. By understanding your energy consumption, choosing the right installer, navigating the permitting process, and understanding the long-term implications, you can avoid potential problems and maximize your investment. Remember, this is a long-term commitment, so thorough preparation is key to a successful solar journey.