Whether you live in a modern new home or an old house, installing a solar panel system can be beneficial. You’ll reduce your electricity bills, reduce your carbon footprint (by using clean energy), appreciate the value of your home, and more.
If you’re thinking of installing solar panels, you’re in the right place. Here’s what is important to know before you do it.
1. Your Roof Type Can Affect Cost:
The type of roof you have makes a huge difference in installation costs. Installing solar panels on a shake or Spanish tile will surely be more expensive than asphalt shingle roofs.
This is because both shake and tile are way more brittle than asphalt shingles. Therefore, it takes longer to verify that any attachment points penetrating the roof are fully and correctly sealed. This additional time might result in an extra cost to the installation job (10 to 25%).
2. You Don’t Have to Live Somewhere Sunny:
There’s this myth that solar panels are only beneficial if you live in a state that’s constantly sunny throughout the year.
However, the reality is pretty different. States like Massachusetts and New York are among the top ten states that have adopted solar power. Yet, they have way fewer peak sun hours in comparison to California or Arizona.
The point is, solar panels require approximately fours hours per day. If you live in a state where solar panels could be a bit more potent, you can consider checking out higher-efficiency panels.
3. You Can Have Another Source of Electricity:
If you don’t want solar power to be your only source of energy, that’s okay. If you opt for an on-grid solar panel system, your property will be linked to your city’s electricity grid to guarantee a source of power.
This is quite handy if you live in an area that doesn’t have sunlight frequently or where there’s not enough sunlight during some seasons of the year.
Keep in mind that some property owners prefer to live off the grid, and their homes are energy efficient, as they use generators and battery storage. It can be a great choice if you’re looking to reduce electricity costs and be as sustainable as possible. Check out your options with your solar installer.
4. How Much Does It Cost Going Solar?
It depends. How much energy you consume and your house’s size will affect the scope of the project. In general, the price of a residential system can go from $15K to $25K.
While the initial cost may be high, it brings you a bunch of saving opportunities. Currently, you can benefit from the solar tax credit, cutting 26% of the cost of installing a solar system from your federal taxes.
Plus, multiple states and cities offer tax credits and rebates. It might be worth checking the DSIRE (Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency) to find saving opportunities available to you. Go solar and live in a modern home!
5. Solar Will Not Add to Property Tax:
Installing a solar system will not lead to a reassessment of your home. Reassessments end up occurring when there are room additions or constructions that increase the property’s square footage.
In fact, in most states, the addition of solar panels is free from property taxes.
Live in a Modern New Home: Go Solar:
Solar energy will give a modern new home vibe to your property. You’ll be engaging in a trend ahead of time, as we will likely see more houses using solar power in the future. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to save the planet.
Did you like this piece? We have more. Check out the rest of our website.
