As of early 2016, the United States had about 27.2 gigawatts of solar energy with more
than a million solar panels on American roofs and landscapes.
Solar energy is not only an excellent source of green renewable energy, but it’s also
one of the most affordable energy options today.
If you’re looking to save a bundle and save the planet while you’re at it, then look no
further than solar panels. Using solar panels is killing two birds with one stone, but only
if you use them the right way. Solar panel installation is relatively seamless compared to
installing other energy options.
Despite having seamless installation, there’s still a lot that can go wrong when using
and installing solar panels. As such, you need to take all the necessary precautions to
get the most out of your solar panels.
In this post, we’ll be discussing several mistakes you should avoid when using solar
panels.
1. Failing to Plan Ahead
Solar installation is a very intricate process. Depending on your home's size, you’ll need
to have a comprehensive plan for the solar installation. If you’re doing an entire solar
panel project, then planning for it is something you can never overlook.
Also, remember to keep the future in mind while planning for these projects. Your
energy needs might change in the future, especially if you’re planning to grow your
family. The solar panels should meet the current and future energy needs.
If you can’t afford more energy at the moment, then at least make room for expansion.
You should have some space to accommodate more solar panels if your energy needs
increase.
2. Getting Cheap Solar Panels
When it comes to solar panels, getting the cheapest ones available is a huge mistake.
Understandably, you want to pay as low as you can for your solar panels. However,
more often than not, you’ll actually end up getting what you paid for.
Cheap solar panels work like any regular ones; they just won’t last that long. So even if
you save money on cheap panels, you’ll only do so for the moment. Sooner or later,
you’ll have to spend a bundle in repairs or even buy new ones.
Choosing the cheapest ones from the broad array of solar panels may be a choice
you’d regret. However, this doesn’t mean that you should go out looking for the most
expensive solar panels you can get. The best approach would be to listen to advice
from a professional installer and find the best option that can fit your budget.
3. Going It Alone
You might have built an impressive DIY skillset, but installing solar panels isn’t like
building a treehouse. You’ll need professional help not only when installing the panels
but also when picking the solar panels. One grave mistake most people make is
installing the solar panels on their own.
You might not know how much weight your roof can support or even whether you have
enough space on your roof for starters. There’s also the question of the solar panel
wiring, which is complicated to the layman.
Most people decide on installing solar panels by themselves because they want to save
on installation costs. However, you might end up losing a lot of money, when
components of your solar panels fail due to incorrect wiring. What’s more, you’ll be putting yourself in danger because of the wiring or falling from the rooftop during
installation.
Remember, wiring issues might damage other electrical appliances apart from just the
solar panels. You’re better off leaving the installation to the pros, even if you have to
pay for the solar installation service.
4. Not Exploring All Your Options
When you’re in the market for solar panels, make sure you get multiple quotes from
different companies. That way, you can take your pick and pick a company best-suited
to your situation. Doing so enables you to compare prices and even weed out the
swindlers.
Some unscrupulous companies may charge you triple the normal rate for simple solar
panel installation. You might end up paying a lot more than what you really should.
That’s why it’s very important to get quotes from multiple companies.
To take it a notch higher, have the companies breakdown each segment of their quotes.
Doing so guarantees you value for your money and helps you understand the quote.
Also, take your time before picking a solar company and make sure you do your
homework on the company.
5. Failing to Understand the Installation Process
As mentioned earlier, solar panel installation is an intricate process requiring a great
degree of technical skill. For instance, you don’t have to face your solar panels in a
particular direction to receive sunlight. This is a misconception that most homeowners
hold very dear.
While it’s true that the panels must face a particular direction for optimal energy, the
difference is negligible. That said, you no longer have to worry if the solar panels face a
particular direction other than North. You’ll still save a bundle in energy costs and get
more than enough energy for your home or company.
6. Overlooking Incentives
Plenty of solar panel companies offer incentives for solar installation including offers
and discounts. Solar companies aside, most states offer incentives, including rebates
and tax breaks for individuals who embrace solar energy.
The states do so in a bid to make people switch to renewable and more
environmentally- friendly energy options. You should not ignore these rebates because
they help you save a lot of money. You should also check with your local utility company
and see if they have any incentives to capitalize on.
Avoid Using Solar Panels the Wrong Way
Switching to solar energy is one of the best decisions you could ever make. However,
using solar panels, the correct way is crucial in getting the most out of them. If you avoid
the above mistakes, you’ll never regret switching to solar energy.
Your solar panels are only as good as the solar company you opt for. For professional
and expedient solar panel services, contact us today.
