Saving money on energy is a major priority for homeowners. A new solar panel system can look tempting, especially with the tax credit extensions that may cover your entire installation. However, knowing which panel system to choose can be confusing.
Not quite sure where to begin your solar panel journey? Start by typing “solar providers near me” into your go-to search engine, and you’ll find a wealth of companies located in your area. From there, you can contact a handful of these businesses to inquire about installation services, pricing details, and the optimal options for your home.
As you continue reading, you’ll uncover more helpful insights on selecting the solar panel system that’s the perfect fit for your household.
Picking the Right Panels for Your Roof
Many homeowners think they need the largest system their home can allow them to save money. However, paying for more panels and more installation costs may not be the best choice for your wallet, even with the tax incentives. The viable space for panels may be smaller than you expect, so a small system could be a better choice for you than you expect.
There are three primary types of solar panels for residential properties: monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film.
Monocrystalline
Monocrystalline panels are often the most expensive, but they also reach a powerful 20% efficiency potential. These visually appealing black silicon panels can get more power as the temperatures rise, making them a great investment. However, it’s important to keep in mind that these panels are more at risk of hail or fire damage than other options.
Polycrystalline
Polycrystalline panels are a newer development and are posed as a less expensive alternative to monocrystalline panels. These blue panels are made from melted silicon crystal fragments and produce 15 to 17% efficiency. However, they may encounter the same issues as monocrystalline panels, including taking up significant space on your roof.
Thin-Film
Thin-film is the cheapest solar panel option, but the lower 11% efficiency potential means more panels are necessary to lower your power bills. In many cases, the thin film may not provide enough energy to be worth the expense of installation for homeowners. You may need to cover your entire roof or overlap thin-film panels (known as amorphous panels) to get the savings you’re looking for.
Choosing a Solar Panel System for Your Home
While higher-efficiency panels can cost more, you may only need a few panels to lower your power bill substantially. Finding well-made solar panels with a warranty can also increase your home’s value, stave off roof damage, and provide you with power for 25 to 30 years.
If you’ve been considering solar panels, you may have already spoken with an engineer or city official to determine if your home is suitable for solar power. If you haven’t, examine your property and determine how much sun your home regularly gets to choose how many panels you need.
Once you’ve decided which type of panels are right for you, find a reliable installation team to help you choose the best mounting style for your roof. They can also help you determine how many panels you need and how they should be installed.
Saving Money With Solar Panels
An experienced installation team can help you stay within budget and find the right solar panel system for your home. However, you may want more information before you start on a new home renovation project. Speaking with a solar professional can help you know what to expect before an installation.
If you’re ready to take on other home updates, we’ve got all the information you need to get started. Check out our other blog posts to help your home look its best.
