How Are Solar Panels Installed? Costs And Considerations
Thinking about installing solar panels? You’re not alone. More and more consumers are turning to solar energy to reduce their carbon footprint and slash their electricity bills.
But have you ever wondered how those shiny photovoltaic or PV panels end up on the roof? Are you thinking about how much it’s going to cost you? If you’ve said yes to these questions, you’re on the right page.
Allow us to break down the solar installation process, identify the factors that influence the price, and explore the things you need to consider before switching.
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A Step-by-Step Guide to Solar Panel Installation Process
Solar panel installations may look easy. However, it requires skills and expertise to do it right. It’s crucial to start on the right foot to make the most out of your investment. Working with reputable solar installation companies, including Smart Solar Energy, ensures that you’re getting a comprehensive solution that aligns with your specific needs.
Here’s what to expect before, during, and after a solar energy power setup:
Step 1: Site Assessment
A solar panel installer will visit your home to assess its suitability for installation. These professionals will check your roof’s condition, angle, and shading. This applies whether you have traditional roof tiles or flat roofs.
Your current electrical system and energy usage will also be evaluated to determine the right size for your solar array—the linked modules that make up your solar panels.
Step 2: System Design and Planning
Based on the results of the assessment, solar installers will create a custom system for your home. They’ll decide how many PV panels you need, where they should be placed, and how they’ll connect to your property’s electrical wiring. You can review the design and plan before the actual installation begins.
Step 3: Permits and Paperwork
Most states require owners to comply with local building codes and standards when carrying out residential and commercial solar panel installations. The company will handle most of the paperwork, including securing permits and applying for solar incentives. Processing times vary from state to state, so this can take a few weeks. Once your project is approved, you can then move on to the next phase.
Step 4: Installation Day
A solar power system is composed of different parts, not just the panels. Expect your installers to spend time on your roof and, likely, in your garage, especially when putting in the inverter and battery.
The actual installation typically involves the following activities:
- Preparing and reinforcing your roof to make it strong enough to support your rooftop solar power system.
- Solar panel mounts are then set to securely attach the modules. You may opt to add a heat sink to increase efficiency and reduce the heat produced by the panels.
- After putting your panels together, they’ll move on to wire everything together.
- They’ll install a solar inverter, which converts direct current from the panels to alternating current that your home can use.
- Installers will also set up a solar battery system if your project calls for one. In such cases, a charge controller is added to connect your array to the battery.
It could take anywhere from one to three days for your solar panel installers to complete the job. This timeframe depends greatly on the size of your system and the potential issues that may arise.
Step 5: Inspection and Grid Connection
Your new system must pass an inspection for proper installation, operation, and performance. That’s why attempting a do-it-yourself (DIY) approach doesn’t work—except when dealing with small-scale applications or solar kits.
After getting the green light, your energy provider will install a new meter and connect your system to the electrical grid. Doing so lets you draw power from the grid when your solar panels aren’t producing enough and send excess solar energy back when they’re generating enough.
How Much Is It?
A home solar system installation provides numerous benefits. Besides lowering your electricity bills, it also allows you to become less dependent on local electric companies for your energy needs.
In the United States, the average cost for six-to eight-kilowatt-hour solar installations ranges from USD$ 15,000 to USD$ 22,500—without tax credit and other incentives. Don’t worry if you can’t pay upfront. Many solar installation companies offer loans or leases.
What Factors Influence the Cost?
Several elements come into play when setting your solar panel installation costs. These include:
System Size
Bigger solar power systems are more expensive but provide more energy. As bigger houses typically require more electricity, your property size could also influence the installation cost.
Panel Type and Quality
There are three primary choices for PV cells: thin-film, monocrystalline, and polycrystalline. Of these, monocrystalline provides the highest efficiency, which also means it’s the most expensive option.
Your Location
Your installation cost is also influenced by the cost of electricity and the amount of sunlight you receive. Additionally, labor and permitting costs vary by region.
Roof Complexity and Additional Charges
Solar panel installation could be more expensive for structures with steep or multi-level roofs. The same holds if your roof needs reinforcement.
The good news is that availing of national and local incentives can significantly offset your spending. The federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) reduces your federal taxes by up to 30 percent. Many states and utilities also offer additional rebates and performance-based incentives. It’s always a good idea to check what’s available in your area.
Key Considerations Before Going Solar
Before installing solar panels in your home, there are a few things you need to think about:
Roof Condition
Removing and re-installing solar panels entails costs. If your roof needs to be fixed or replaced, do it before scheduling your installation project.
Energy Efficiency
Embrace energy-friendly habits in your home months before the assessment. This could help reduce the number of panels you need.
Future Power Needs
However, don’t dismiss the possibility of increases in your energy consumption. For instance, you might be planning to buy an electric car or welcome another member to the family.
Homeowner’s Association (HOA) Rules
Your HOA may have strict rules on where and how you should install your rooftop solar energy system. Check them out before proceeding.
Warranty and Maintenance
Look for solar panels with 25-year warranties or more. Longer warranties often mean that manufacturers are confident about their products. Also, ask about maintenance requirements to increase the panels’ lifespan.
Grid Policies
Understand your utility’s net metering system. This determines how much credit you’ll get for excess solar energy your system produces.
Climate
Solar panels work in all types of weather. However, it’s best installed in sunny areas. If you’re in a snowy to cold region, you’ll likely need more panels to meet your energy requirements.
Long-Term Plans
Planning to move in the next few years? It might be a challenge to take your system with you. Consider whether taking it out could impact your property’s resale value and if you can easily sell your solar panels to a local marketplace.
Whether you decide to go solar now or wait a bit longer, exploring renewable energy options is always a bright idea. You can always start small and adopt other sustainable practices to test whether you can commit to it for life.
Making the Decision
Switching to a renewable energy source is a big decision. Several aspects need to be assessed, including the costs, your lifestyle, and your goals.
For the vast majority of homeowners, however, solar panel installation is a worthwhile investment that pays off over time. Not only can you save money on electricity, but you’re also doing your part to support green energy and fight climate change.
Even so, choosing the right setup requires careful consideration and expert help. So, take your time, do your research, ask questions, and get quotes from multiple solar installers.