Installing solar panels on your home is a wise decision that will bring loads of environmental, social, and economic benefits to you in the long run. But before you take the leap of going solar, it is important to consider all aspects of such an important decision.
Consider Your Roof Space
You can install solar panels of a variety of roof shapes and sizes. However, your solar system selection truly depends upon the amount of energy you need to generate. In general, residential properties have limited space on the roof; hence, it is necessary to choose your panel size accordingly. You need to choose the panel system that your roof space can accommodate. One of your best options is to find a panel that fits both the landscape and portrait layout of your roof.
The energy ratings of the panel also vary accordingly. For instance, to generate 5 KW power, you may need to install 15 to 18 panels on the premises. Also consider that most fire codes demand an additional space of three feet between panels. As solar panels are usually rectangular in shape, an area of your roof with a large rectangular space is an ideal location for installation.
Consider if Your Roof Is Shaded
Sometimes, shading from chimneys, tall buildings, and trees can cause considerable decay in the overall energy efficiency of the solar panels. If shade is just from large trees, they can be trimmed to better maximize your energy output. To further optimize your system on shaded roofs, ask your contractor for microinverters. But, note that string inverters will be a bad selection for shaded roofs as they tend to degrade the performance of the entire system even when only one panel is shaded.
Consider Re-Roofing Your House Before Installing a Solar System
This is an essential consideration when making a decision about the installation of the solar system. A solar system is a lifetime investment and if you plan to re-roof in the future, it may cost you a lot to have your entire system removed and re-installed or replace essential parts that are lost during the process. To avoid all this trouble, it is better to discuss the re-roofing idea with experts before the installation of your solar panels.
Consider Hiring Professional Solar Installers
For quality solar panel system installations, contact the professionals at PES Solar. We can help you assess the size and condition of your roof to determine the best and most reliable solar system for your home. Contact us today to start your solar installation plan.
