Posts in category: Solar Panels

Over the last few years, many countries have invested heavily in renewable energy to make the future better and sustainable. With the rapid increase in global warming, many people are shifting towards solar energy to power their homes instead of relying on the energy produced by burning fossil fuels. Around 50% of US homeowners claim to have seriously considered adding solar panels to their homes, as it is convenient, economical, and better for the environment. These statistics are rapidly changing as more and more people flock toward renewable energy. 

But not knowing what to expect when shifting to solar is still a major concern. While many do want to make the switch, they are hesitant to do so. We try our best to explain the entire procedure to our customers in our first consultation so they know what to expect. This blog is a guide for everyone who is planning to go solar and needs more information regarding the process. 

Significant changes that happen when you switch to Solar:

Lower electricity costs:

Solar Energy reduces your electricity cost straight off the bat. Since you would be producing your own energy, you will be able to control the cost. Solar panels might sound expensive initially, but you will be able to save as much as 70% on your electricity bills. This is one of the biggest changes that you will feel. Many people who switch to solar admit that they didn’t expect that big of a drop in their electricity bill after switching to solar. You will be able to use whatever appliance that you want without any hindrance while saving money. Once you go solar, don’t be surprised when your electricity bill suddenly drops. 

Higher value for your property:

Solar panels are a source of attraction for many buyers. It is that added benefit that they get once buying a house. Getting solar panels is a great way of boosting your house’s EPC ratings. The better the EPC rating, the more desirable your house is for buyers. If your house is old and you are considering selling it, get the roofs fixed and invest in solar panels. Your EPC rating will increase by two grades, giving you a better offer from the buyers.

Lower Carbon footprint:

A lot of people who get solar, mostly get it for the monetary benefits of it rather than the environmental benefits. But for those who are into saving the climate and feel deeply about the environment, solar is the best option for you. It is renewable energy, and it will lower your carbon footprint by 1.3 to 1.6 tonnes a year. Since it relies on the sun, it is cleaner and more sustainable. There’s no emission of greenhouse gases which is a huge plus, especially when compared to the energy produced by fossil fuels. That alone will have a massive impact on the climate and might motivate others to take this route too. 

A higher return on investment:

While many consider the high price of solar panels to be a turn-off, it is an excellent investment that gives you a great return. Did you know you can sell the excess electricity produced back to the national grid and get paid for it? The government promotes people who do this as it lessens the burden on the national grid and makes people more independent and in control of their energy consumption. Not just that, but when fuel prices rise, they won’t impact you since you will be producing your own energy. 

While these are the major changes you will experience once you move to solar, one thing is for sure. Getting solar panels installed is expensive, and many will tell you it’s not worth it. But if you invest in the right solar system, you will begin to take advantage of all the benefits it has to offer almost immediately. 

How to choose the best solar company?

The first thing you need to do is research. Check if the company you have chosen is MCS accredited or not. This certification ensures that the equipment meets good standards of performance and is reliable. Once that is done, reach out to three different solar companies and get quotations and consultations from all three. Look at their online reviews and see which offers the best experience and service. After-sales service is equally as important, so make sure to cover that as well. Ask everything that you want to know, and clear all doubts circulating in your mind. Once done with all this, you can choose the one that checks all boxes. 

People living in California are rapidly moving to solar and if you are one of those looking for the best solar installation experts, get in touch with us. We specialize in both residential solar and commercial solar and provide only the best to our consumers. Get in touch today to get a quotation. 

Many people are reluctant to switch to solar energy because of what they have read on the internet. We live in an age where a lot of misinformation is spread around, and everyone who reads it without fact-checking falls for it. In times like these, it is crucial for one to be vigilant and to cover all bases before making a decision. Like any other industry, there are plenty of myths associated with solar as well. And since it is a considerable investment, many people get discouraged and let go of the idea of switching to solar. 

We at Altair are here to bust some of the common myths associated with Solar. Read the full blog to see how you were misled by many on the internet.

Common Myths related to Solar:

Myth #1: Solar only works when the sun is shining:

One important thing to note here is that solar panels collect light, not heat. On days when clouds are covering the sky and it’s raining, sunlight is still entering the earth. That light is then absorbed by the solar panels and is converted to electricity. Despite it raining for multiple days, you will still have electricity produced by the solar panels installed on your property. Yes, it is true that solar panels work best on a bright sunny day, but they do not stop working on a dark cloudy day.
Also, one important thing to add here is that you will have sufficient energy stored in your battery, which can be used when there’s no energy being produced. You can choose to sell that excess electricity to the national grid or use it yourself. 

Myth #2: Not all appliances can run on solar:

One of the biggest misconceptions people have is that not all electronics or electric appliances can be run on solar energy. What you need to know is that the electricity produced by solar energy is the same as that being provided to you by the grid. It has the same efficiency and power that regular electricity has. So be it your air conditioner, heater, refrigerator, or coffee machine, you can use it all while running on solar energy. 

Myth #3: Solar is difficult to maintain:

Solar has been given a bad reputation, primarily because of the companies offering lower-grade solar panels. Not all solar panels are hard to maintain, just those of poor quality. A good solar panel requires gentle dusting from time to time to ensure there are no leaves or other particles on it that might interfere with the absorption of sunlight. Other than that, they are quite low maintenance. And to make things better, many solar providers offer free cleaning and upkeep facilities as a part of their after-sales services. 

Myth #4: Solar is too expensive:

This myth is partially true and a point of concern for many. Yes, solar can get a bit expensive, but that is just a one-time fixed cost. This cost will then push you towards a life of savings which will make the future easier for you. You will have more savings and a better ROI. The setup cost is high, but it ends up increasing the value of your property. It also decreases your electricity costs, helping you save up to 70% on your monthly bills. Before deciding to go solar, calculate the return on investment you will get, and you will surely see how good of a deal it is. 

Myth #5: Solar panels will ruin my roof:

Many homeowners are under the impression that installing solar panels will ruin their roofs. That is simply not true. Solar panels are handled and installed by professionals equipped to handle these things with caution. If you were to do it yourself, you might end up damaging the roof and hurting yourself, which is why it is a job left to be done by MCS-certified installers. Your roof needs to be sturdy enough to support the weight of the solar panels and be in good condition. An already damaged roof is not suitable for the installation of solar panels. These things will be highlighted and brought to your attention by the team of engineers who come to inspect your house before the installation.

While you might have heard many of these myths and believed them, they are simply not true. We understand that switching to solar might be a nerve-wracking decision, but you should do your research from credible resources. Reach us out if you want to get the solar systems installed by the experts of this industry. We provide solar solutions that are premium and reliable and are trusted by many. Visit our website today and get a consultation from the best solar providers in Orange County.

The main reason why people decide to switch to Solar Energy is because it is considered to be a clean source of energy. It is a type of renewable energy which means that it doesn’t emit the same level of greenhouse gasses or carbon and neither does it deplete which means that it is here to stay. One of the biggest concerns of 2022 is Climate change and almost every country is working hard to come up with a plan that helps them fix the environment. Pollution, Deforestation and the melting ice caps are just a very small part of climate change as energy consumption plays a major role in harming our environment. 

Renewable energy and its surprisingly low carbon footprint:

Before we dive into calculating the carbon footprint of renewable energy, it is important to understand what carbon footprint is. It is one of the many ways to calculate the impact of human induced climate change. It is calculated after taking into account the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gasses, by an individual, in a given period of time. In short, all the carbon emitted from the energy that we use directly, be it fuel, electricity, or from indirect sources, such as the energy used in the manufacturing of the products we use, is summed up to show the carbon footprint of an individual or that of an organization. 

Renewable energy is one of the cleanest sources of energy available since the dawn of mankind. It provides over 90% of the reductions needed to reverse the impact of climate change. Unlike coal and other fossil fuels that are used to generate electricity or energy of any kind, renewable energy emits no greenhouse gasses or carbon dioxide which is why they are now deemed as the best way to reduce global warming.

Overall carbon footprint of Solar Energy:

To use Solar energy, one needs a solar system that converts sunlight into energy by the help of solar panels. The only time carbon dioxide is emitted in the whole process of solar energy generation is during the making of a solar system. All the machinery and equipment used to make the cells that are then fitted into the panels emit CO2. From the turbines to the mirrors, transformers and generators, all have a carbon footprint of their own. 

During the operating stage of the Solar Panels, little to no carbon dioxide is emitted. When the sunlight strikes the solar panel, it creates an electrical charge which is then stored in the substation and is then transmitted to the consumer. This entire process is clean and the only time a greenhouse gas is emitted is when the generator is turned on at the power plant.

Even at the removal stage of the solar system, the only carbon emitted is from the machinery that helps in the removal of panels and restoration of the land. Other than that the system itself is clean and plays a significant role in saving the environment. 

The role of Solar Energy in combating Climate Change:

Since Solar Energy does not emit carbon dioxide, it is capable of combating climate change as it mitigates the following negative effects of global warming. 

• The rise in temperatures: 

Earth’s atmosphere has warmed up since the 1800’s which has caused a major shift in the world’s climate. Just like our bodies, the Earth also requires an optimum temperature to function in the best way possible. Since the atmosphere has warmed up, it has caused a rise in temperatures all around the world which led to melting of glaciers, extinction of certain animals, and droughts in many parts of the world. 

• The rapid rise in sea levels:

The global sea levels have increased by more than 10 inches since the 1800’s which has caused massive flooding and destruction on the coastline. The casualties increase every year, whereas marine life is severely impacted by it as well. 

• Extreme weather events:

Hurricanes, storms and drought are now becoming a regular occurrence in many parts of the world. One area might be experiencing precipitation, excessive rainfall and floods, whereas the other one would be going through a drought and a dust storm. These weather events have tampered with the fertility of the land which is directly affecting the food production and crop cultivation.

• Melting of the ice caps:

Due to the rising temperatures, Earth’s surface temperature has increased which is causing all of the snow and ice to melt. With the glaciers melting, there is a significant rise in the sea levels that causes flooding. Not just that, but many animals that survived in those low temperatures have now gone extinct, which has had a significant impact on the ecosystem.

Environmental benefits of Solar energy:

Solar Energy has many benefits out of which the two most important ones are:

• Improves Air Quality: 

Solar Energy emits little to no carbon which makes it the perfect choice for everyone who wants to lessen their carbon footprint. Rather than the combustion of carbon when using fossil fuels, solar energy harnesses the power of sunlight. This ensures that there are no pollutants going out into the atmosphere, which in turn will then help mitigate the damage done to the ozone layer.

• Free Flow of Energy:

With Solar Energy, you are energy independent. You are producing your own energy and can use it as you please. Your bills will no longer put a dent in your pocket as you will be able to utilize as much as you want while even choosing to sell the excess electricity to your nearest grid station. 

The future is Solar:

Looking at the state of the world right now, it is high time that we move to Solar. With environmental concerns rising each day, it is our duty to take the first step. If you are thinking of getting a solar system installed, come to us and we will help you out. If you live in the USA, get the best Solar Systems from us. Our team will answer all your queries and will guide you in the right direction. Make the right choice today by shifting to Solar.

Even though renewable energy isn’t new, the shift towards it is. Which is why one of the biggest concerns people have before shifting to Solar, is related to its upkeep and maintenance. One of the biggest myths related to the installation of the Solar system is that many believe it to be tricky to clean and maintain. In this blog, we talk about how you can take care of your solar system without any hassle or extra effort on your end.

Why are Solar Systems considered to be tough to maintain?

Solar Systems aren’t tough to maintain at all, but the fact that many believe it to be so, baffles us. There’s a preconceived notion about all things technical that they are hard to maintain. That was the first thing that was said about a mobile phone too. Since many do not know how a solar panel operates, they take it to be something to stay away from. If you have any such doubts, begin by researching about the Solar System. See what it is and how it works. You can also refer to our blog (Hyperlink the science behind solar blog), to learn more about how a Solar System works and that will give you a clearer idea on the subject. If you already have a Solar system installed or are thinking of getting one, keep reading to understand how to take care of it for maximum efficiency..

Tips to maintain your Solar System:

If you are getting a Solar System installed from a reliable company, your dealer will already explain all this to you. In case they fail to do so, here’s what you need to make ensure:

1. Do not keep the Solar panels away from the sunlight. The Solar Panels need to be placed in a certain direction which exposes them to direct sunlight. That will ensure that they absorb maximum sunlight and give the best output.
2. Always keep an eye on the inverter to see if the lights are working fine. If the lights are not blinking or flashing, contact your dealer as that is a sign of the system being inactive.
3. Keep a check on your daily energy production. Many companies will provide you with an energy production device that will help you calculate the electricity produced. Notice the production on normal days as well as the rainy and cloudy days. It will help you understand your daily production as well as consumption which will enable you to calculate your ROI.
4. Always get your system checked after a storm. Many people assume that if the system is working fine, then there is nothing wrong with it. However it is advised to always call the company in, for a checkup round especially after a storm. This is to avoid any problem that might become a bigger issue later on.

If you practice these tips, your Solar system will last you a long time without you having to spend so much money on it. Now that we have covered the maintenance part, let’s talk about the cleanup.

Easy ways to clean your Solar Panels:

With every tech gadget or electronic equipment, there is this fear of cleaning at, but if you follow the tips given below, you will see just how easy it is to clean your solar panels.

1. If you are busy and rarely find the time to clean up after you, it would be best to simply schedule a cleanup appointment from a solar panel cleaning company. Leave it to the professionals and they will show up on their designated time and will clean it for you without you having to worry about a thing.
2. Get a proper solar panel cleaning kit, and use that to clean your Solar system. The kits come with a brush, cleaning liquid, wiper as well as an instructions card. All this will help you clean your system with products that are safe and will not damage the equipment.
3. Stay away from using any harsh material or brushes on the solar panels. Do not use a wire sponge or any other abrasive material. Instead go with a soft rag. The best time to clean the panels is when they are already wet, so after rain or fog, or early in the morning, when the panels have dew settling on them, is the ideal time to get all dirt and grime off them.
4. Use a hose and a long handled wiper to clean them while ensuring that the water pressure isn’t too high.
5. Always make sure that the solar panels are free of dirt and do not have anything settling on them. The more dirt and dust they have on them, the less effective they will be at absorbing sunlight, and the less output you will get.

These are the easy ways through which you can take proper care of your Solar System. A good Solar System will last you for 25 to 30 years if you take good care of them. Get Solar Systems from us and we will ensure that you don’t have to go to great lengths for their maintenance as we sell only the best panels that not only save your energy costs, but also maximize your savings.

Make sure that you follow all the tips given above to ensure long term benefits from your Solar System.

Solar systems are now an “it” thing. Everyone seems to be talking about them, but only a few know what they actually are. Solar systems run on solar power and are installed to save energy and for a sustainable future. Solar panels then convert the sun’s energy into electricity, which you then use to power your electrical appliances. But how do they actually work? That is a question which many of us want to know, as surely this can’t be all right? What exactly is solar and how does it work? Before you call in for a consultation, here’s exactly what you need to know about the science behind this amazing system.

What is Solar Power? 

The conversion of solar energy, that is the energy present in sunlight, into renewable energy with the help of photovoltaics (PV) is known as solar power. All this power comes from the sun’s rays that are then converted into electricity. This electric power can then be used on any electric appliance that you have in your house or office. While all this might make it sound like a tedious process, in reality, it is a lot more simple. Technology has gotten quite advanced due to which all this conversion happens instantaneously, which means that you don’t have to wait or worry about your appliances dying on you, due to lack of electric power to keep them running. Solar power is a form of renewable energy because it is constantly being replenished by the course of nature. Unlike fossil fuels, solar energy is abundant and clean, due to lower emission of carbon. 

All this makes it safer for the environment and the ultimate solution to combat climate change. 

Solar power system for home: the complete process from energy generation to transmission?

Now that you know what solar energy is, it is crucial that we discuss the nitty gritty behind the working of a solar system. A solar system consists of solar panels that start working the minute they are exposed to sunlight. The solar panels absorb the sunlight and create an electric current. The electricity produced, flows into a conductive wire and from there on, it moves to the inverter, where it is converted from DC to AC, so that all appliances can work with it. 

The AC power is then moved to the electric panel, from where the electricity flows into the property. Any excess power created that is not used, is stored into the electric grid to be used later on, or to be sold to the electricity utility company. This entire process happens at the speed of light which is the speed of electrons without one having to wait!. So by the time you wake up and go to the kitchen, your coffee machine will be ready and powered up to make you a steaming hot cup of your morning coffee. 

This is a basic explanation of how solar energy is converted into electricity, within an instant of time.

Efficiency of a solar system:

Many often question the efficiency of a solar system as they believe it to be weak, since it comes from the sun. Well, that is a myth which we are about to bust. Solar power is extremely efficient and is equally as powerful as the electricity generated at the grid. From warming up your water, to running your air conditioners, solar power is capable of doing it all. Plus, the amount of sun rays that falls on the Earth in one hour, are way more than the energy consumed in one day, making it the ideal choice for all of us. Plus, that isn’t the only way solar energy is efficient. 

You can save up to 50 to 80% of your monthly electricity bill with the right system installed in your property. Amazing right? As if this wasn’t enough, the value of your property also increases if you have a solar system installed. So, think of it as a long term investment. You aren’t just doing yourself  a favor, but are also leaving a cleaner, and safer future for your future generations by protecting the earth against dirty energy, caused by the exploitation of fossil fuels. 

The benefits of solar energy on the climate:

There are numerous benefits of getting a solar system installed. While the benefits for an individual are many, there are also tons of benefits for our planet. 

Renewable energy has been used by humans since ancient times. Using the heat emitted from the sun has always been used to warm water, whereas wind has been used to move turbines and produce electricity. The reason why solar energy is preferred over any other form of energy is because it is abundant and is easily replenished. There is no fear of it running out, or damaging the planet. The entire process of the conversion of sun rays into electricity, produces no carbon which is great for the environment. However at the very same time, the burning of fossil fuels to produce electricity, leaves a huge carbon footprint that has now led to the drastic climate change that our planet is going through. At a time when animals are getting extinct, polar caps are melting and droughts are becoming more common, it is high time that we invest into renewable energy to reverse the damage that we as humans have caused to this planet, while being blinded by our comfort and ease. 

Conclusion:

You might have heard a lot of myths related to solar energy but all of those myths exist only when there is a lack of knowledge. There is still a lot  to be done to help people understand the science behind solar and how it actually helps us as an individual as well as a community. If this blog has sparked an interest in you, make sure you dwell deeper into the world of solar, and visit our website to see how the whole journey from the inspection to the installation comes into play with Altair Solar, especially in Southern California. No matter what people day, one thing is for sure. Solar is the future of energy as it is cleaner and more efficient in the long run, as proved by Science itself, since it goes in accordance with the laws of nature.

As temperatures and electric rates continue to climb, solar power installation looks like an attractive energy alternative.

Homeowners can save significant money with a home solar. In areas like Southern California, the cost of electricity is 53% higher than the national average and still rising.

Are you wondering if a home solar system will offset your electric costs? Are you unsure if solar installation is the right choice for your home?

If so, read on for a guide to solar power installation and how to reap the benefits from a home solar system.

What is Solar Power Installation?

Solar power installation seems straightforward. An expert attaches solar panels to your roof, and the sun’s energy powers your electrical appliances.

You save money and reduce your environmental footprint. You may also increase your house’s value. It’s a win-win-win.

However, solar power doesn’t directly add electricity. Residential solar power installation includes wiring the home solar system into the existing electrical system through an inverter.

Solar power’s one-way direct current (DC) travels into the inverter and converts the DC into an alternating current (AC). This AC then travels through your electrical system. It’s like the previous electricity provided by your utility company, except without the pesky per kWh charge.

Your home solar system may also connect to your electric company’s grid. If you have net metering, this means you can add surplus solar energy back into the grid. The extra energy adds credits to your account. The credits can be used when your home solar doesn’t meet electric demands.

You may not see any benefits, however, if you install a home solar system that isn’t optimized for your home. There are certain steps that will ensure you get those home solar benefits without losing money, damaging your home, or installing a faulty system.

Before panel shopping, here are some important factors to evaluate.

Analyze Your Energy Consumption and Electrical System

If you don’t install enough solar panels to significantly augment your energy consumption, you’ll end up with the equivalent of pricey roof paperweights.

Many utility companies offer tools to track your energy consumption by a specified period (day, week, month, year) and the type of energy used. You’ll want to know the average electricity you use daily during peak energy consumption seasons like summer and/or winter.

If your utility company doesn’t offer this, there are other online tools that can help you make a rough estimate.

Another option is an electricity usage monitor to determine how much your individual home devices and appliances are using. This will also help you locate energy vampires sucking up unneeded electricity and creating extra charges on your energy costs.

Eliminating vampire energy can even translate to solar panel installation savings. The less energy you use, the fewer potential panels you may need.
Your home’s electrical system should also be working without major issues.

An older building that isn’t up to modern codes may not be able to support a home solar system without installing new parts.

A qualified electrician can help you determine if your home is ready for solar power installation. An electric system evaluation is usually included in the residential solar power installation process. 

Evaluate Your Roof and Its Sunlight Exposure

Your roof is an important factor in home solar installation. Your roof should have adequate solar panels to meet your energy needs. Those solar panels will need enough sunlight to generate power.

If your roof is too small, covered in shade, or angled away from direct sunlight, you may have to adjust the number and placement of your panels.

There are tools to help you evaluate your home’s sunlight exposure. You can use online calculators to get a rough estimate by location and climate. Or you can use hand-held solar radiation meters for a more exact measurement.

Like your electric system, your roof should also be in good shape. If your roof is damaged or needs replacing, installing solar panels can exacerbate these roofing issues.

Certain roof materials and roof types are also more compatible with solar panel installation than others. A metal roof with seams requires very little installation effort compared to a tile roof. Intense solar panel installation on a roof that needs repair can quickly result in extra damages.

You may end up paying more in roof repair and replacement costs compared to fixing the roof before solar panel installation. A professional roof evaluation can help you determine your roof’s health.

Find the Best Quality in Materials and Installation

Like plumbing and remodeling, home solar installation is a project where skimping on cheap-quality items and services can end up costing you more money in the long run.

Faulty installation of your home solar system will cost you unneeded time, money, and stress. Knowing what to expect during installation will help ensure your solar installation process is done right.

Your solar panels should be durable. Most well-made solar panels average a 20-year lifespan before major repair and replacement issues. But a cheaply constructed solar panel may only last five years.

It’s also important for the inverter to be durable and installed correctly. A faulty inverter will waste the solar power generated by your home solar system.

Reliable inverter manufacturers will typically offer good warranties and service plans. You can also research the failure rates of their products.

Research Tax Credits and Incentive Programs

Residential solar power installation credits and incentives can depend on economic variables. But you may still find significant savings. Local, state, and federal incentive programs can give you short-term and long-term benefits.

The federal Solar Investment Tax Credit allows qualified homeowners to claim a 26% tax credit on their federal taxes. California state has several programs to encourage solar installation. These include Solar for Affordable Housing and Property-Assessed Clean Energy.

These extra savings can service and maintain your home solar system. A well-maintained solar system maximizes your home’s solar benefits.

Invest in Solar Power Installation

Residential solar power installation pays for itself in the short and long-term benefits of having a home solar system. Solar power-optimized for your home will keep your energy costs low for decades to come.

Contact us to begin your solar power installation process and make your way to a brighter, clean energy future.

Homes with solar panels are net producers of energy, and in some cases, homes can even produce more electricity than they use!

All that excess electricity returns to the grid for other customers to use. The result? Homes with solar panels make money off of their neighbors’ energy usage!

But it doesn’t end there. Installing solar panels on your home is also a great investment opportunity. The financial benefits are noteworthy because these systems continue to increase in value cost savings. So let’s take a look at the seven rewarding solar panel benefits.

1. Reduce Your Energy Costs

If you have your own electricity-generating solar panel system, you should see a decrease in your monthly utility bills. Some people pay less than $10 per month for electricity! Enjoy all the benefits of an energy reduction without rewiring your home.

But soon, you could be making even more money off your solar panels with Net Metering Laws. If your state has net metering laws, it means that you can connect your solar panel system to the power grid and sell any excess electricity back to the grid during times of peak demand.

This means you’ll pay less for your electricity bill. Now that’s what I call a good investment opportunity!

2. Take Advantage of Incentives and Rebates

But the savings don’t stop there. The Federal Government also offers tax credits and incentives for renewable energy sources and appliances found in your home.

As many people know, you may be able to get thousands of dollars worth of tax credits and deductions when filing your taxes in the United States. The amount you can get will depend on several factors, including the size of your solar system and where you live. The sooner you take advantage of these incentives, the more money you could save in the long run.

You may be eligible for an income tax credit. Some states also offer renewable energy certificates (RECs) that decrease your electricity costs and may even pay you to use green power rather than fossil fuels.

3. Add Value to Your Home

If you ever decide to sell your home, adding solar panels can increase its value. Homebuyers are more likely to go for a house with solar panels because the system lowers utility bills and helps you save money over time.

Solar panels are good for the environment. But they also make your home more desirable. Attractive, silent, and sleek, solar panels can sit on a roof or the ground. And because they install in a day, you can start generating clean and affordable electricity right away!

In fact, homes with solar panels have sold for 12-15% more than homes without them! Homes with new solar panel installations will appeal to buyers who want to reduce their carbon emissions and go green.

4. Make Money From Excess Energy

As mentioned before, homeowners who have invested in their solar panel systems continue to collect money for excess energy they produce. In some cases, homeowners earn money when they produce more energy than they use in their homes.

This extra income can be great for people looking to support their income. It’s also a great option for new homeowners, especially those who want to ensure they have reliable access to electricity while building equity in their home and going solar for themselves!

5. Balance The System

Like in point 4, solar power will cheapen electricity use as more people adopt it. The nature of variable tariffs and surge pricing means that people avoid peak times. Likewise, they’re encouraged to take it off the grid off-peak.

You can also get paid to take electricity off the grid in the same way you can sell excess solar back to the grid! One example of this would be to charge an electric car up overnight where there is an excess of wind power from a storm.

6. Opens Up A New World to Cheaper Living

Once you’ve got solar panels, you may find you’re looking at whether you can save money by driving an electric car or installing a heat pump to replace your old furnace.

And not only that but saving money is addictive. Whether it’s your internet, cellphone contract, or binning that gym membership, you’ll find money in places you never knew existed!

7. It’s Good For The Environment

All this is good for the environment. It means that less CO2 enters the atmosphere from traditional sources. This, in turn, results in a healthier ecosystem.

By living healthier and happier lives, we save money by spending less on things we don’t need. At the same time, this gives us more available to enjoy time with our family.

If you install solar panels on your roof and let them power your home during the day, that energy can then produce electricity at night. The electricity goes back to the grid, where it’s used for someone else’s home, business, or industry. This is also known as net metering, and it allows you to sell some of your excess energy back to the grid.

There Are Many Financial Benefits to Solar Panels

Solar is an investment that can help you save serious money on your energy costs and add value to your home. And there is a lot of money for homeowners to make from installing solar panels, making the financial benefits undeniable.

If you are thinking about getting panels installed on your roof, make sure you get in touch with us today and get a quote. We’d love to brighten up your life!

Did you know that in early 2019, the total number of solar energy system installations in the United States exceeded 2 million?

When people contemplate going solar for the first time, one of the first things they ask is, “How many solar panels do I require to power my home?”

While this may seem to be an easy question to ask, it is really one of the final responses you will get when determining what kind of solar power system to place on your property. The first thing you’ll need to figure out is how much energy your house is presently using.

Are you thinking of installing solar panels but don’t know how many you would need? Here is how to calculate the number of solar panels needed for your home.

Calculate How Many Solar Panels You Need

It is pointless to put a single solar panel in your home! In addition, the financial advantages of a solar panel installation will need more than just that first panel.

Calculating how many solar panels you’ll need to power your house is based on three main factors: 

Annual Usage of Electricity

To get the answer to this million-dollar question, you’ll need a copy of your last electricity bill. 

Your annual energy consumption is the total quantity of power used in your house over the course of a calendar year. This figure, expressed in kilowatt-hours (kWh), is affected by the items in your house that consume energy and the frequency with which they are used. 

Some of the appliances that consume high amounts of electricity are:

• Refrigerators
• Air conditioning units
• Small kitchen appliances
• Lights
• Chargers

The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that the typical American home consumes 10,649 kWh of power per year. Therefore, it makes sense to use that number to determine the solar panel system size needed for an average home.

The Wattage of a Solar Panel

The wattage of a solar panel is also known as a solar panel’s rating power. Panel wattage refers to the amount of energy generated by a particular solar panel under ideal circumstances.

Wattage is expressed in watts (W), and the majority of solar panels produce between 250 and 400 watts of electricity. Therefore, to get a decent average, use 320 watts in these calculations.

Production Distribution

A solar panel system’s production distribution is the ratio of the estimated energy output of a system over time to the actual system size. Energy output is measured in kWh and actual system size in Watts. 

Hardly ever are these numbers exactly on a ratio of 1 to 1.  That ratio depends on how much sunlight your system gets and the change in production ratio. 

Production ratios in the United States are typically between 1.3 and 1.6. Accordingly, using those two values as a high and a low for our computation makes perfect sense!

What Are Your Power Saving Goals?

Are you thinking of offsetting, neutralizing, or receiving a quarterly credit from your utility company?

Your anticipated savings directly influence the number of solar panels you should put on your house. But, of course, there are other variables to consider, such as site and installation considerations. 

Solar panels need sunlight. Thus, places with more daylight hours, such as California, will need fewer panels to get the same effect as those with fewer daylight hours.

Additionally, certain factors can affect solar panel energy output, such as: 

• Solar panel shading
• The direction they face
• The changing of seasons
• Weather conditions

Your solar power distributor can add a little buffer to your average daily output. That buffer will compensate for these variables.

Determining the Best System for Your Requirements

You’ll need to calculate some numbers to figure out what size system you should install. For example, either 3 kW, 5 kW, 7 kW, etc.

Each kilowatt-hour of solar energy you install will generate an average of 4 to 4.5 kWh each day. So to determine the size of the system you require, divide your daily usage by 4.5 kWh.

For example, if you need 14.3 kWh per day, divide it by 4.5 kWh. This will give you 3.1, which means you will need a 3 kW system.

Your solar dealer can assist you in calculating these numbers. They can also provide you with an estimate of your planned system’s average daily kWh output. 

How Many Solar Panels Do You Need?

After deciding on the solar panel model to install, divide the total kW need by the output production of each panel. That answer will give you how many panels you will need for your home’s power.

Bear in mind that not all panels are of a similar size, both physically and in terms of output power. For example, in solar panels with a typical output of 250 W to 265 W, a 3 kW system would require 12 panels.

Solar Panel Benefits

As we know, while the sun is shining, solar panels will generate energy. What you don’t use of that power, you can sell back to your retailer. Factor this saving into your solar financial benefits.

Also, please take into consideration when your power usage is at its highest. You could do load shifting depending on where your solar panels are facing. If they face west, this increases power during the afternoon.

In this case, it would make sense for the home to concentrate usage of appliances in the late afternoon, while your power production is at its highest.

A Brighter Solar Power Future! 

Thomas Edison once said, “I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power!” What a forward-thinking man!

As shown above, the most precise and trustworthy method of sizing solar panels for your home is based on your own energy use. Unfortunately, however, not everyone has access to that information. 

We hope this article has helped those who are just getting started with solar research by offering reference system sizing depending on a few key factors.

If you are looking at changing to solar power, contact us, and we will help you with your solar installation.

Most households in America spend approximately $1,500 yearly on the electricity bill. When you total this amount for 10-15 years, it’s enough money to pay for your kid’s college education. That’s why you should look for ways to reduce or eliminate this utility cost.

Switching to solar energy is the best option for saving this money. Also, solar panel installation will increase the value of your home and help protect the environment. You may, however, be concerned about how this process works.

To guide you, here is what to expect during solar panel installation.

Engineering Site Visit

An engineer must visit your home before any solar installation work can start. The objective is to check your house’s electricity needs and standards. Also, the inspection will help you know the ideal solar equipment to purchase.

The other work is checking the status of your home’s roof to see if it’s strong enough to hold the solar panels. The engineer, in some instances, may recommend you upgrade the roof before the installation work. The idea is to create adequate space for installing solar equipment.

You may, however, worry about where you’ll get a competent engineer for this work. The good news is that our company will provide this specialist. We have many competent engineers who’re available for the home inspection.

Applying for Permits and Other Relevant Documents

You’ll need to get various permits before you can install solar panels on your home. As a homeowner, you’ll have trouble knowing the right way to handle this paperwork. That’s why it may take you a long time to get these permits.

To ease your work consult our solar installation company to help you with this paperwork. Our experts will guide you to understand the needs for these permits and how to apply. We strive to help homeowners complete the paperwork the right way and quickly.

The other thing is learning the incentives you can get by choosing solar energy for your home use. Although Southern California no longer offers solar incentives, you can get rebates for getting an energy storage unit. Reach out to us, and we’ll guide you to the paperwork for seeking these rebates.

Purchasing the Equipment

After getting the permits now, you’ll need to order the solar panels and inverter. It’s logical to wonder who to choose the ideal solar equipment for your home. You want equipment that’ll provide adequate power to meet your needs.

Also, you’re worried about how much money you’ll spend on solar energy equipment. Reach out to our solar installation company for advice on how to get the best deals on solar equipment. We’ll direct you to the top solar energy equipment sellers in Orange County and its environs.

We’ll also advise you on the key features to check when searching for the ideal solar energy equipment. The idea is to help you get efficient and durable solar panels and inverters. In addition, we’ll ensure you get panels that enhance the appearance of your home as well as the value.

Installation

After all, preparation work, now it’s time to install the solar panels on your home’s roof. The installers will start by reexamining your roof. The idea is to get it ready and secure the shingles.

The next step is to undertake the electrical wiring by connecting the power system to the solar panels. From here, the expert will install the racking system that supports the panels. The last step is to connect the inverters to the panels.

All these tasks are easy only when you hire the right solar installation company. A company with experienced and highly-trained installers who’ll do the work fast. The right specialists will also undertake the essential testing to ensure everything works.

The other thing is to learn how long the installation work should take. The reason is that some companies take forever to finish this work. Others keep changing the date for installing the solar panels.

You can avoid all these troubles by calling our company for timely solar installation work. We keep our promise on the day we agree to install the solar panels. Also, our experts are quick and efficient in doing this work.

We strive to ensure you start enjoying solar panel benefits as soon as possible. Call us today for reliable and timely solar installation services.

Getting Approval from the Relevant Governmental Authorities

Before you can start using solar energy in your home, you must first get approval from the government. Some homeowners feel that this step is unnecessary and only delays the process. However, getting the approval matters as it shows that you’ve properly installed the solar panels.

Expect a representative from the local government to visit your home for an inspection. The objective is to check whether the electrical wiring is installed properly. Also, this rep will inspect if the panels are firmly and safely mounted on the home’s roof.

The last thing to expect is an evaluation by your electricity company before you can start to use solar energy. The essence of this evaluation is to get utility approval. You can expedite this process by involving a professional solar installer.

Expedite the Solar Panel Installation Work by Hiring Our Company

Many homeowners argue that the solar panel installation process is costly and lengthy. That’s why most of them are reluctant to switch to this renewable energy. If you’re one of these people, seek ideas on how you can simplify this task.

Call our company, and we’ll advise you on the ideal solar energy equipment to get. Also, we’ll share insights on what to expect when you start using this sustainable energy. The idea is to showcase the solar panel benefits that justify incurring the installation cost.

In addition, we’re quick to install the solar panels and help you get the required approvals. Our objective is to offer excellent services that exceed your expectations.

Call us today for all your solar panel installation needs.