What are you getting out of your power bills right now? An ever-rising bill isn’t what anybody pictures when dreaming of a better life, and it’s growing ever harder for families to make ends meet.
And yet, a lot of people still rely on fossil-fuel electricity for their homes and lifestyles. Many of these people wonder if it’s better to go solar.
Whether it’s a good idea for you or not, how do you know?
Well, stranger than fiction, we’re here to tell you the answer. So long are the days that the only benefit of switching to solar power is saving money.
Here’s a list of reasons why you should think about going solar and how to know if it’s the best available option for you.
Let’s get this party started!
Your Energy Needs
Before making this move, the first thing to consider is your energy needs. How much energy do you currently use, and how much do you want or need to save in the future? It’s important to look at the big picture and estimate how much energy you will need over the course of a year.
This will help you determine the size and type of solar panel setup you’ll need to meet these goals. You’ll also need to consider your geographic location, existing appliances, and any potential future plans when assessing your energy needs.
Your Location and Climate
When considering whether going solar is the right decision for you, your location and climate play a significant role in the decision. Solar panels are most effective in areas with clear and sunny weather, so if you live in a place that’s cloudy more days than not, you may want to look into other alternatives.
The latitude of your location is also important, as it affects the intensity of sunlight available. Generally, the closer you are to the equator, the more sunlight you’ll receive, and the more efficiently your panel will work. In addition, you need to consider seasonal variations, as solar will be more efficient in the summer months when days are longer, and the sun is stronger.
Cost of Installation
Solar panel installations can be expensive and you need to measure the cost of installation against the potential energy savings over time. Solar energy can vary widely in cost, depending on the size of your home, and the number of panels you will need for an efficient system.
The cost of installation will also include mounting hardware and wiring, which can add extra costs. The cost of a solar energy system will be an investment, but depending on the size of your home and the size of the solar system, it could potentially save you a considerable amount of money, in the long run.
Financing Options
Homeowners can choose to finance the entire cost or opt for a loan, lease, or power purchase agreement. Loans often provide the lowest interest rate, however, they require the homeowner to come up with the full purchase amount upfront. Leases, on the other hand, require little to no money down and payment is based on monthly rates.
Lastly, with a power purchase agreement, homeowners pay only for the electricity produced. Depending on the terms of the agreement, this can be a low, fixed-rate over the life of the contract.
Solar Incentives and Rebates
Solar incentives and rebates can certainly help make a solar installation more cost-effective. It’s important to know where to look for local, state, and federal solar incentives and rebates. Additionally, you should be aware of any additional incentives from your utility company and be knowledgeable of the different net metering policies.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Depending upon your solar installation, upkeep and maintenance needs may be minimal or extensive. If you have a solar panel system mounted on your roof, your system should be checked annually by a professional. Components should be replaced as necessary and may become more costly over time.
In terms of off-grid systems, regular maintenance is more common; they need to be checked more frequently to ensure the system runs optimally. Maintenance may involve replacing the battery, cleaning components, and ensuring all wiring is secure.
Environmental Impact
Going solar is an excellent option for those who wish to lessen their environmental impact. Solar energy is renewable, abundant, and clean, meaning it produces no pollution. With no fuel needed to generate electricity, there is no combustion involved.
Solar power also reduces the demand for fossil fuels and natural gas, which are major sources of greenhouse gas emissions and can cause significant climate change. To determine if going solar is the right choice for you, consider the size of your energy needs and the amount of available solar energy in your area. Additionally, investigate tax credits and other incentives offered by your local utility.
Comparing Solar to Other Energy Sources
Comparing solar to other energy sources is a great way to determine if going solar is the right choice for you. Solar energy’s main benefits are that it produces a renewable, emission-free source of power. In contrast, other energy sources may produce emissions and can be finite, such as oil and gas.
It is important to consider the initial costs of a solar installation, which vary depending on the system size and type. Financial incentives from local, state, and federal programs can be beneficial and should be taken into account.
Working with a Solar Installer
A good installer will be up to date on all the latest technology and innovations in the solar power industry and be able to advise you on what product is most appropriate for your needs. They can also advise on the various grants and incentives available to help with the cost of installation.
Furthermore, good installers should provide a guarantee for the system so any necessary maintenance or repairs can be attended to quickly. Take advantage of their expertise and check this link today to start transitioning to a cleaner, more sustainable energy source.
Is Going Solar Right for You?
Deciding if solar power is the right choice for you involves considering many aspects like long-term savings and the amount of sun your property has. Ultimately, going solar can be a great option for anyone looking for an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to power their home. To learn more about if going solar is the best option for you, talk to an expert at a solar retailer today.
Need more home tips? Keep scrolling through our blog for more.
