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Some homes in America have installed solar panels. If you’re looking to get in on the action, you’ll need a set of their own. But before you can do that, you’ll need to get everything set up properly.
There are only a few steps to setting up residential solar panel installations. But there are a few major mistakes to avoid. If you follow our tips, though, you can prevent them.
Read more to learn seven common errors and how to avoid them.
1. Not Getting Enough Quotes
When it comes to the solar installation process, one error to avoid is not getting enough quotes. By getting multiple quotes, you can compare the pros and cons of each. Then, decide the best price and fit for your situation.
Not getting enough quotes can lead to you making an uninformed decision and potentially missing out on the opportunity to secure a more cost-effective rate. Get at least three quotes from reputable companies to ensure you make the most informed decision when choosing a residential solar panel installation.
Ask questions to get details about the services and guarantees offered, the installation process, and any restrictions that may be in place.
2. Lacking Knowledge of Incentives
Another potential pitfall to avoid is a lack of knowledge of available incentives. Depending on where you live, you may be eligible for tax credits, deductions, and other governmental incentives. Researching these incentives can be time-consuming.
But gaining a thorough knowledge of what is available before installation can save you a great deal in the long run. Also, installing a residential solar system compliant with current local or state incentives can make the process smoother. You should ensure that the certifications and regulations needed to gain access to incentives are followed during the installation process.
3. Never Understanding Your Financing Options
Residential solar panel installation errors can be costly, so it is important to understand financing options before beginning the installation process. Uninformed homeowners can make mistakes like overpaying for a system that does not meet their needs, choosing the wrong installer, or purchasing panels that can’t be serviced in the future.
Knowing your financing options can save you money by allowing you to compare prices, purchase from reliable suppliers, and find flexible financing. Homeowners should research solar lenders, lease providers, and financing options to get the best deal.
Finding an experienced and certified installer is also important to ensure your installation and financing decisions are properly made. Understanding your financial options and researching installers can help avoid residential solar installation errors.
4. Misunderstanding Your Warranty
Misunderstanding your warranty is a common error when considering residential solar panel installations. The trusted installer and manufacturer should provide potential homeowners with a warranty that outlines what is and is not covered. Terms and conditions of the warranty should be read carefully, and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Consider the length of coverage and what might be expected in each instance of damage or defect. Installation should also be submitted to applicable inspection bodies to ensure all applicable standards are met. Be sure you understand what occurs in the event of installation failure and if technical support, repair, or replacement is available.
5. Neglecting Your Roof
Neglecting your roof is another common error in solar panel installations. Whether you don’t have an inspection before having a solar panel installation team come in, or fail to replace any existing damage before installation, neglecting your roof can lead to serious problems for your solar panels. Before installing solar panels, hire a roofing professional to inspect the roof and make any necessary repairs, such as flashing or replacement of shingles.
Neglecting your roof could cause water seepage near your solar panel, leading to rot and mold growth that can affect your solar panel’s efficiency. Also, when you install solar panels, make sure to use appropriate fastening material to avoid leaking.
Also, ensure that your roof has proper cleaning and maintenance after installation to keep them free of debris and dirt, and make sure to schedule regular inspections and maintenance of your roof.
6. Facing Your Panels Away From the Sun
This is one of the most basic errors of a residential solar panel installation. Facing your panels away from the sun can significantly reduce electricity production. So, as a result, the savings you’d obtain from such a system.
To avoid this mistake, it’s important to conduct proper orientation, which is usually assessed based on a geographic survey. Also, purchasing quality panels, ensuring their correct installation, and ensuring no obstruction from obstacles like trees can also help curtail this error.
7. Buying the Cheapest Option
When purchasing a residential solar panel installation, it is always tempting to buy the cheapest option. However, this can be a mistake. Cheaper installations can lack quality, meaning they may not last as long and require more maintenance.
There are a few other errors to avoid when buying a solar panel installation. First, it is important to research and hire an expert to install the system. Also, when buying the panels, they should all be the same type and manufacturer.
It is also important to properly site the installation and ensure it is adequately oriented. Finally, it is also a good idea to factor in installation costs and future maintenance before buying.
In summary, it is best not just to buy the cheapest option but to carefully research and plan a residential solar panel installation. So if you’re considering getting quality solar panels, check out Blue Raven Solar today!
Learn More About Residential Solar Panel Installations
Residential solar panel installations require significant resources and planning to succeed. Following best practices and consulting with experts will help ensure that the installation process goes smoothly.
Investing in residential solar can be a great way to reduce energy bills and help the environment. Take the time to research and plan before you install, and you will reap the rewards and benefits of a successful solar panel installation.
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