Solar panel systems are an increasingly popular energy solution for homeowners all over the world and they’re utilized by more homeowners every day. There are plenty of reasons for that, which we’ll go over in this blog! Solar panels offer a clean, renewable source of energy that can be used to power your daily life, from turning on lights and appliances to heating water. Solar energy is also a great way to limit energy costs so you can protect the environment, as you’ll be reducing your use of fossil fuels. So, are you considering making the switch to solar energy as a renewable energy source? You can learn everything you need to know, including how long you can expect your solar energy system to last, with our guide to solar panel installation.
How do solar panel systems work?
Internally, a solar energy system consists of photovoltaic cells. For those who don’t know, photovoltaic cells are semiconductors and they contain both positive and negative layers. When sunlight falls on these cells, it strikes the negatively charged layer. The electrical field it produces is what forces electrons to flow in the proper direction. The movement is known as a direct current (DC). The DC is then fed into an inverter, where it is transformed into an alternating current (AC), to meet the standard electrical current for modern homes. This basic process is how solar panels work.
After your system generates the electricity you need, it can power all of your home’s myriad of devices and appliances. Many people underestimate the effectiveness of a solar system, but with modern technology, the results are amazing. If your solar power system generates more electricity than your home needs, you’ll be able to sell all that excess energy back to the grid. Selling back this energy will be credited to your account, so you can cut down on your bills substantially. That means that beyond generating renewable and sustainable electricity to reduce your carbon footprint, you can potentially earn money from their solar panel system!
Before choosing your system, you should find a local solar panel company near you to help calculate the amount of energy your home needs. Then you’ll be ready to start shopping for solar panel systems. There are two main types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline panels. Monocrystalline panels are generally more efficient. They produce more energy per square foot, but they are also pricier. Polycrystalline panels produce less energy, but they are more affordable and simple to install. A reputable installer will be able to tell you more about the different types of solar panels so you can choose the right solar system for your home.
What are the benefits of installing solar panels?
Homeowners and experts widely agree that solar power is a fantastic long-term investment and there are many benefits associated with using solar power for your home’s electricity needs. Homeowners are responsible for the upfront installation cost, but the savings on energy bills and potential earnings from selling the excess energy can offset this cost over the lifespan of a solar panel. Becoming a more informed consumer can allow you to find the right clean energy solutions for your home. Here are just a few of the top benefits of switching to a solar energy system for your home:
- Lower Energy Bills: When you use solar energy, you can generate your own power, which can reduce the amount of energy you buy through your utility company. For many customers, installing a solar system can cut their energy bill in half, depending on the specific solar panel’s efficiency.
- Reduced Carbon Footprint: By installing solar panels, you can reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions you produce each year, minimizing your total carbon footprint. This is a goal shared by many people who have an interest in working to solve the growing problem of global warming.
- Increased Home Value: Home buyers are typically more interested in properties that have a home energy system, as they know that they will have lower utility bills each month. They can be a selling point for many potential buyers, who are increasingly interested in homes that have eco-friendly features.
- Eco-Friendly and Efficient: Solar systems are designed for maximum efficiency, so they can capture enough light even on cloudy days. They’re also an integral part of any green home. Green homes have many other advantages too, including cost savings.
- Federal Tax Credits: The federal solar tax credit, also known as the investment tax credit (ITC), is a significant incentive offered to homeowners and businesses who decide to install solar systems. This tax incentive can offset the installation cost, making it even more fiscally responsible to install a solar system in your home.
Remember, with so many options in the market, you need to know what to look for when selecting the best solar panel system for your home. Some factors that you need to think about include the cost of electricity where you live, the number of occupants in your home, and your individual energy consumption patterns. Consulting an experienced solar installer online or in your area can determine what size your system has to be in order to meet your energy demands.
Other things to consider when choosing a solar panel system for your home may include the reputation of the solar energy system’s manufacturer, warranties offered, and total installation costs. Going with a reputable and well-regarded company with a proven track record and top-tier customer service can give homeowners peace of mind that their solar investment will be worth it. A solar panel system’s efficiency will depend not only on the quality of your panels but also on your solar system being installed properly by a qualified contractor.
How long do solar panels last?
Compare Quotes from Top-rated Solar Contractors in your area.
There’s no debate about the fact that solar panels are an excellent choice for anyone looking to reduce energy costs. However, many potential solar panel users wonder about the longevity of the panels—how long do they last, and will they recoup their expenses before needing replacement? Modern panels are built to last for many years, and by maintaining and cleaning your solar panels, they will function for decades. On average, solar energy systems have an expected lifespan of around 25 years, with some models designed to work efficiently for up to 30. Most installers will offer at least a 25-year warranty on their solar systems, but you should ask your contractor about what specific warranty coverage they provide.
With regard to recouping your expenses, the break-even point for most solar systems occurs about 6 to 10 years after installation. Regular cleaning and upkeep are essential to ensure the longevity of the panels, and this includes cleaning dust, debris, and dirt from the panel’s surface. Your system needs to be installed correctly to prevent water damage, which can severely impact a panel’s lifespan and cause panel degradation. If you take care of your solar system, you can save thousands of dollars over time and avoid the issues associated with faulty installation. You can tell that it’s time to replace your solar system when it is no longer producing enough electricity to cover your bills, at which point you can talk to a contractor about repair or replacement so you can have a system operating at peak efficiency once again.
Working with trusted solar panel manufacturers and solar installers can guarantee that solar panel users receive reliable and long-lasting equipment that will serve them for many years. There are different types of solar panel manufacturers: Tier One, Tier Two, and Tier Three. Ideally, you should work with a Tier One manufacturer. In order to qualify for this rating, a solar company must have been producing panels for at least five years and be highly rated for customer service and quality. Use online and offline resources so you can locate a contractor or solar installer that can assist you in choosing the perfect solar system for your home.
Find The Best Solar Contractors Today
Based on everything we know about solar systems, installing solar panels is a wise investment in your future and the value of your property. This type of home energy system can provide financial benefits to homeowners and you can’t beat the fact that they require minimal maintenance too. A solar energy system can be a hassle-free and eco-friendly addition to your home for decades to come. If you decide that switching to solar energy is right for you, there are numerous companies that can provide you with a modern and durable solar panel system for your home. At Alpha Living, we allow you to search for the right solar installer in your area, so contact us today!
Facebook
Comments