A lot of homeowners jumped on the solar installation trend in the last few years. Some like the idea of minimizing their carbon footprint. Others like the many solar energy uses and potential solar energy benefits.
You can use solar energy for device charging, water heating, or even powering your whole home. At the least, it can help you defray some utility costs.
While green energy offers some clear benefits, the solar installation process can prove less clear. If you’re considering solar panel installation, keep reading. We’ll cover the essentials of the process.
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Picking an Installation Company
At the outset, picking an installation company is your first hurdle. You should investigate local installers. Depending on your location, though, you search may take you out of your immediate area.
Keep an eye out for companies with good reviews and a verifiable track record.
Never searched for solar installers before? Not sure what to look for? You can see a good example over at Blue Raven Solar.
Site Inspections
After you settle on a company, you can expect two site inspections. The first site inspection will focus on the property itself. This inspection helps determine the best system for your home and location.
The second inspection focuses on engineering concerns. This inspection determines whether your roof needs reinforcement and your electrical panel needs an upgrade.
Paperwork
Next up comes the paperwork. You’ll likely need at least a few permits, especially if your roof needs work. On the upside, you can also start the paperwork for any local, state, or federal programs that your solar system qualifies for.
Don’t forget about that paperwork during tax season either. You may also qualify for solar energy tax credits. Talk with your accountant about it.
Installation
Installation can take several days depending on your roof and system. If your roof needs reinforcement or your electrical panel needs an upgrade, that typically happens first. It can also add a little time to installation.
Then, the panels go up on your roof. While that happens, the company installs the hardware to connect the panels to your electrical system.
Inspection
Most locations require an inspection before you can turn the system on. This ensures safe electrical work for your home. It also ensures the work won’t damage the local grid for grid-connected systems.
Deciding on Solar Panel Installation
Deciding on solar panel installation means weighing some pros and cons.On the pro side, you can reap some benefits from the installation.
You can lower your utility bills. You can also help protect the environment. There are also potential tax benefits as well.
The process itself is not entirely carefree. Your roof and electrical system may need work. You must also secure permits and navigate paperwork for government programs.
For many the benefits outweigh the short-term downsides of the installation process.
Want more home improvement insights and ideas? You can find them in the other articles on this site.