Going solar is a great way to get your home more eco-friendly, while reducing your energy bills at the same time. That said, it is an investment that needs to be considered carefully, so this article aims to give you the basics of what you need to start planning your project.

The nuts and bolts of solar energy

In short, the process of solar energy uses a concept known as the photovoltaic effect to channel sunlight into a form of electricity that can be used to power a home. The system uses the energy that solar panels capture and turns it into a form that can power home appliances.

While solar panels are the most visible aspect of the system, there are also other parts that you need to consider. To ensure you get the best possible setup for your home, start by finding a reputable solar companies near you to guide you through the process. Doing so also ensures your system will be installed safely and to regulations – an important aspect given that any electrical systems can be dangerous if not installed correctly. 

What do you need to get started?

To bring your home solar project to life while living in Orange County, you need a large enough roof size to be able to fit some panels. The size varies depending on how many sunlight hours you get per day, and also the direction your roof faces. But the best solar company in Orange County can help you with that calculation.

From your side, you can think about any trees or shrubs you could trim back, and whether there are any practical steps you can take to reduce shade on your roof.

You also need to assess the integrity of your roof. In other words, check it is still well built, and that the tiles are in good condition. Once solar panels are installed, it is a lot more complicated to carry out repairs on your roof. Again, reputable solar companies can assess your roof condition and help guide you on any repairs that may need doing beforehand.

Does solar power really pay off?

The answer depends. But as a rule of thumb, if your household energy bill is over $1200 per year then solar panels are likely to make financial sense. 

Because the system consists of several components as well as just the panels, the whole system can cost a few thousand dollars. You also need to own your home to have a system installed, because it is not easy to take it with you if you move on from a rental property. 

One of the main benefits of solar power is that you can opt for a system called net metering. This enables you to feed any excess energy your system generates into the grid. By doing so, you can pull from the grid if you ever experience shortages. This means you will never see another energy bill come through the door, even when your system cannot cope with demand on its own!

Solar panels are likely to make sense – but speak with an expert and be sure to look into every detail before you go ahead.

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