Solar panels are swiftly increasing in popularity. And why wouldn’t they? Not only can they save their owners electricity costs in the long run, but with the offers of tax credits, incentives, and rebates, they are becoming a more and more popular form of alternative energy.
When someone wants to purchase solar panels, some decisions need to be made. As it relates to the installation of solar panels, you must decide where you will place them. The most popular location for panels is on a rooftop, although they can also be placed on poles and in other freestanding configurations if the roof is not an ideal location.
A second thing to consider regarding solar panel installation, is the location for solar panels is how to position them. Solar panels should be in as direct sunlight as possible, so as to maximize their efficiency. When placing solar panels (also known as photovoltaics), look for any obstructions that may need to be cleared out of the way, and check for shadows at various points of the day – it may not be obvious at first, but a stray tree branch could lower a solar panel’s effectiveness greatly.
Because the roof is the most popular location for solar panels, there are many tips and tricks to consider with placement there. First, there are many different ways that panels can be mounted on the roof. They can either be mounted flush against the roof or tilted at various angles away from the roof, depending on which of these is ideal for catching the sunlight. A professional solar panel installer will be most qualified to help you make these decisions.
Both of these methods are useful, but the most effective way of including solar panels on a roof is to have them “flashed-in”, that is, built into the roof when the building is being made. This helps to eliminate leaks, and also allows builders to better locate rafters to that the panels can be positioned properly. “Flashing in” solar panels can also help to cut costs, as these panels tend to be more durable and may not need to be removed or reinstalled for decades.
Size is another factor when considering your solar panel installation, as well as type. Solar panels of all sizes and shapes are available through retailers such as Evergreen and Mitsubishi, or through online retailers. Depending on the size and quality of these panels, their price can vary greatly. Generally speaking, though, one can figure out if a solar panel is priced reasonably by calculating the cost per kilowatt of energy it can produce. EcoBusiness Links, a directory of green businesses and services, provides a updated list of solar panels from various companies as well as their prices.
These guidelines will help you get started on your way to a cheaper energy source. Once you purchase solar panels, they can be either installed on your own or with the help of an independent contractor in your area. For help locating a solar panel installer in your area, be sure to check out our solar panel installer directory!