Answers to Questions About Solar Panels
If you’re still waffling on the idea of putting up solar panels on your roof, it may be because you’ve got questions that haven’t been answered yet. These are the questions most often fielded by professional installers of solar PV panels. The answers may help you see your way clear to scheduling a consult with a solar panels installer in your area.
How Do I Know if My Home is Suitable for Solar Panels?
There’s a basic criteria for deciding whether you’d benefit enough from a solar PV system to make it worth your while. Essentially, there are four main factors to consider:
Your Roof
Solar PV systems are most efficient on a roof that faces south, but a southwest or southeast facing roof will generally also provide enough light for a solar system to put out sufficient electricity. In addition, the angle of the roof will make a difference; rooftops that are angled between 10 and 60 degrees are all suitable for solar panel installation. Finally, your roof must be large enough and sturdy enough to support the weight of the panels and their frames.
Your Location
The region in which you live minimally affects the amount of electricity your solar panels will generate. In general, the southwest gets more sun than the north, so you can expect a higher output if you life in the southwest regions. On the other hand, all of the UK is well within the range where solar panels are reasonably efficient, so the differences are minimal.
Your Environment
Shade is a killer for the efficiency of solar panels. If your roof is shaded for part of the day by trees, chimneys, walls or other nearby buildings and structures, it may not be a suitable place to put up a solar PV system. An experienced and qualified installer can evaluate the situation and tell you how much electricity you can expect your system to generate or make suggestions for ways to get around the obstruction. For example, a freestanding system can be mounted on the ground in some areas.
Your Future Plans
The longer you plan to stay in your home the more you will profit from installing solar panels on the roof. While a solar PV system can add to the value of your home, especially if you can transfer a FiTS certificate with the house, it takes time to recoup your initial investment and begin making a profit on your system. If you’re planning to move house within the next 7 to 10 years, it may not be a worthwhile investment for you at this time.
What Size Solar PV System Should I Purchase?
The size of your solar system depends upon the amount of space you have available on your roof and how much electricity you use. The most common sizes installed on residences in the UK put out 2kWp to 4kWp. Your solar installer can advise you on the best size if you give him information about your energy use.
Can I Install Solar Panels Without Planning Permission?
In most cases, you don’t need planning permission for residential solar systems, but there are exceptions for listed buildings and buildings in conservation areas and world heritage sites. Check with your local council to be certain.
How Much Will It Cost to Maintain and Service My Solar PV System?
The only ongoing maintenance your solar panels will require is occasional cleaning. Just how occasional will depend upon how much dirt your solar panels accumulate, but most systems are self-cleaning because of the angle at which they are installed. In addition, you will need to replace the inverter within 25 years at a current cost of about L1,000.
To learn more about whether your property is a suitable fit for solar panels, contact a local solar PV installer and schedule a technical consultation.
Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the world’s MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web.
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