If you're considering having solar panels installed in your home, it's wise to carry out some research prior to making any form of commitment. Here are five of the most common mistakes that homeowners make after deciding to install solar in their home.
1. Not taking advantage of time-limited incentives and rebates.
It's an unpleasant experience when you've committed to a solar power installation only to find that you've missed out on a sizeable rebate or incentive. Yes, the programs are ideal for homeowners, but at the same time, they generally do come with strict requirements and many if not most of them expire within a limited period of time. It makes sense to be privy of what's available to you.
Solar incentives and rebates are offered by federal, state, and municipal governments as well as your local electricity supplier.
Prior to installation, try to ensure that your solar system qualifies for the incentive and rebate programs, and that the programs you wish to apply to do not expire before your installation is complete. Companies that install solar professionally are usually intimately familiar with incentive and rebate programs and they'll help you to take advantage of the best ones.
2. Not taking advantage of the services of a solar installation service professional.
Professional solar systems installers have already undergone extensive training and may also have years of experience. They will ensure that your system meets up with stringent safety requirements, and they are familiar with incentives and rebates that are offered within your area.
They will also avoid common mistakes made by do-it-yourself enthusiasts, whether that be down to poor solar panel positioning, a bad electrical connection, or wrong choice of materials. Professional installers will also help with securing financing if that's a requirement.
3. Not making an assessment of financing and leasing options.
For the average consumer, the cost of an investment in a solar system represents a major investment which is comparable to the purchase price of a new car. Thus, a financing package comes in use to reduce initial expenses and make the whole process much more affordable. Installers should be able to work with you in choosing the most suitable purchase option and in obtaining any financing you require.
There is another option and that is leasing. If you prefer not to pay up-front for equipment or an installation, leasing makes for an attractive proposition.
4. Not having an energy-efficient home before solar installation.
A simple home energy audit can be carried out either by a contractor or even by yourself, and it's a wise choice to make because very often a sizeable reduction can be made to the electricity bill simply by making the home more energy efficient.
The average home energy audit finds the potential to make electrical savings of around 30%.
The most common energy efficiency inadequacies arise due to leaky air ducts, incandescent light bulbs, and inefficient electrical appliances. Paying attention to these inefficiencies means that the potential to completely eliminate your electricity bill month to month becomes a reality.
5. A miscalculation of solar savings.
It's not an easy process to correctly assess how much you can save if you install solar panels. It involves an evaluation of not only the site of installation, but also the amount of available sunlight in addition to the solar panel capabilities.
Although many websites now have calculators which provide savings estimates, they are in fact only approximations.
The best way to gain a more precise estimate is to employ the services of a professional installer.
Through a consultation, they will provide you with a relatively accurate solar power savings estimation, after which you'll be in a stronger position to make the decision about whether solar is the correct investment for you at this time.
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