Before you make the decision to call a solar installer, it’s important to understand what you’re getting into. Solar power is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on energy bills, but it requires careful consideration and planning.
Firstly, understanding how solar power works is crucial. Solar panels convert sunlight directly into electricity using semiconductors. The generated electricity can be used immediately or stored in batteries for later use. The most common type of residential solar system is grid-tied, meaning that when your solar panels produce more electricity than you need, the excess goes back into the grid, often earning you credit from your utility company.
It’s also important to consider whether your home is suitable for solar installers installation. Not every house or property will be a good fit for solar panels. Factors like location, roof angle and condition, shading from trees or other structures all play a role in determining how much sunlight your panels will receive and thus how much electricity they’ll generate.
Costs are another critical factor when considering going solar. While prices have fallen significantly over the past decade making it more affordable for many homeowners, installing a new system still represents a significant investment. It’s essential to understand not just the upfront costs of buying and installing panels but also ongoing maintenance costs and potential savings on energy bills over time.
Incentives can help offset some of these costs; federal tax credits currently allow homeowners to deduct 26% of the cost of their system from their taxes through 2022 (though this percentage steps down each year). Many states offer additional incentives as well.
Another vital point before calling a solar installer is understanding net metering policies in your area because they affect how much money you can save with your system. Net metering allows homeowners with solar systems to get credited for any excess power they send back to the grid at retail rates rather than wholesale ones which means more savings on utility bills.
Finally, before you contact an installer, it’s a good idea to do some research on the different types of solar panels and inverters available. There are many brands and models with varying efficiency ratings and warranties.
In conclusion, switching to solar power is a big decision that requires careful thought and planning. Before calling a solar installer, make sure you understand how solar power works, whether your home is suitable for installation, what costs are involved, any incentives or policies that could affect your investment return and the types of equipment available. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be in a better position to ask informed questions and make the best possible decision for your home and budget.
North Valley Solar Power
1745 Enterprise Dr #2d, Fairfield, CA 94533
707-466-7903