10 things to consider before installing a solar panel system

Undoubtedly so, the planet is in an urgent need to switch to renewable sources of energy to meet the high consumption requirement that is rapidly multiplying. Sustainable development is a concept that most of the households and commercial houses are in favor of today. In this scenario, the inculcation of solar energy I.e. the most abundant and powerful source of generating power is highly into use and has gained major popularity. If you are looking forward to the installation of a solar power system for household purposes, you need to keep in mind certain key points that would directly define the efficiency of your solar power setup and its durability.

Here are the ten things to keep in mind before installing a solar power system-

·         The state of your roof

The solar power system is installed over the roof of the house; this clearly states the need for ensuring that the condition of the roof is fit for the installation of the entire system. Attending to questions pertaining to the repair requirements of the roof is a must and shall be diligently analyzed and the needful be done. The age of your roof is a major factor that directly influences the state of your roof and it’s fitness for the solar panel installation. Also analyze the discrepancy between the warranty of your roof and that of the solar panel, in the case where the warranty of roof lags highly behind that of the solar panels, the maintenance cost is going to burn a hole in the pocket.

·         The shape of the roof

Understanding that the roof is a major thing to be checked on before installation, it is important to look for its shape as well. House roofs come in different sizes and shapes that are determined by various factors of construction and design of the house. Attending to space and shape required for the installation of the solar panel system and deciding accordingly will be highly beneficial in avoiding any issues thereafter. Check if your roof's size and shape will be enough for the solar panels to be placed and for them to operate seamlessly.

·         Direction facing of the roof

As the working of solar panels is entirely dependent on the solar energy received and processed, making sure that the direction in which your roof is allowing you to place the solar power system is okay for the system to receive enough sun rays in order to carry ahead the process. If this factor is not attended timely, before the installation begins, the efficiency of the system will be highly affected and so will be the return on investment.

·         The the weight-bearing capacity of the roof

The installation of an entire system of solar panels undoubtedly calls for a major weight on the roof. This weight is permanent and long term in nature and not momentary. Keeping into account this, the weight-bearing capacity of the roof is a necessity to be studied before the finalization of the size of the system and other installation specifications. If the weight is more than the bearing capacity of the roof then there are high chances that it may collapse and lead to severe conditions.

·         Water flow and it’s drainage

When it rains, the water is supposed to flow in a particular direction where the roof is sloped and further move through drains. After setting up a solar panel system, the wiring, and other equipment pieces that the system comes with might interrupt the flow of water and in certain cases also change the direction of flow that might create additional leakage and other problems. Thereby, analyze the direction of flow in prior and decide for the solar panel placement in accordance with it.

·         Did you research the market enough?

Before committing to a contractor and signing for the installation, like all other commodities, it is a key point to research the market. The market analysis should not only involve the assessment of alternatives in terms of price and dealers but should also account for the market image of the contractor that you're looking forward to getting the work done from. Ensure that the quality of assemblage that he/she uses and the post-installation services that are extended are worth the amount being invested.

·         Things to look for while signing the agreement

After the finalization of the solar panel installer, there are certain key points that you must look for in the agreement. The information pertaining to ownership, financing, performance expectations, data on electricity consumption and companies that have access to your electricity production and usage must be clearly defined in the agreement. In the event of these not being mentioned or being vaguely stated in the agreement, one should necessarily ask the contractor for clarifications and request the inculcation of such information in the contract.

·         Is the cheapest option the best?

We are often economically motivated to opt for a particular alternative. Even though the drive to go for the cheaper option is understandable, in the case of solar panel system this shall not be the benefiting case in the long run. However, it is to be noted that the cost of installation and operation of solar panels has dropped significantly in the past decade but opting for the cheapest option might leave your system inefficient and low on durability. While it is essential to focus on investment in monetary terms, it is also important to attend to the returns that it would draw. Safety is another part that is majorly compromised in cheap solar panels. Study the options for advantages and disadvantages carefully before selecting.

·         Warranty

Always look for the brand and contractor that has warranties to offer. Opting for a major installation like solar panels system will surely need certain protection plans and have the supplier be accountable for any inconveniences caused due to their fault. Thereby, looking for warranties is an important aspect of selecting the right solar panel installer and the right system.

·         Rebates are your reward- do not miss out on them

Many states and cities provide rebates on the installation of solar panels as a promotor towards opting for sustainable sources of energy. Ask your contractor about the rebate options available and do thorough research about claiming the same on your installation amount.

Keep in mind these ten most important factors that are to be considered before finalization and installation to choose the best solar panel Brisbane and ensure efficiency and durability for it.