If you want to reduce your energy expenses by a few thousand dollars, solar panels can slash around $2,200 off the average American’s utility bills. But setting up these energy-saving gadgets is easier said than done.
It takes hours to find the best spot for them, and if you don’t choose the right solar panel direction, they won’t satisfy your energy needs. Here’s how to point your panels towards the sun, so they can soak up all that sweet, sweet energy and rake in the biggest savings for you.
Where to Put Solar Panels
Solar panels should face south. This will allow them to receive the most direct sunlight.
Place the panels a few inches off your roof if you’re mounting them on your home. If you’re using a ground mounting system, position the panels several feet off the floor.
Where Not to Put Solar Panels
Avoid placing solar panels where they’ll take a beating from brutal weather. Most panels can handle winds up to 140 mph, but anything beyond that, and you’re at risk of your panels getting blown away.
Don’t stick your panels on a roof that’s super steep or has a bunch of different angles. If the slope is greater than 40 degrees, it’ll interfere with the airflow around your panels. That means your solar units won’t get the air they need to function properly.
And you shouldn’t even think of installing your panels around towering trees either. Their shade can block the sun’s rays and stop the panels from working as well as they should.
If your backyard is in the shadows, it’s best to opt for a remote solar power system. With this setup, your panels can be in an area that gets lots of sunshine and wire energy to your home.
Can You Change the Solar Panel Direction After Installation?
Yes! But it’s not as simple as flipping a switch or turning a dial.
Solar panels must be aligned perfectly with the sun at all times to supply electricity properly. Otherwise, their performance will fall short of your expectations.
If you change your mind post-installation, brace yourself for additional expenses to cover hiring an engineer to move things around and an inspector to determine which corner of your yard is best for the panels.
Solar Panels Installation Guide
Putting up solar panels is pretty straightforward, but it’s crucial to get it right, or you could wreck your roof.
Ensure the roof has enough space for the size of the setup. If not, think about placing your solar units on the ground.
It’s smart to double-check with an electrician before trying to wire anything. Make sure your electrical plans comply with the safety laws in your city.
When you’ve secured your tools and a permit, install the mounts on the roof. Use a level to keep everything straight and sturdy. If possible, set up the racking so you can conveniently reach under the panels when it’s cleaning time.
Position the panels on the racks and attach each one to their respective ports. If you have a solar monitoring system, direct your wiring to it so you can check how much electricity your panels are producing every day. If not, just make sure all your connections meet safety standards and follow local regulations.
Should You Hire a Professional?
If you want your solar panels to be protected under warranty and for insurance companies to take care of them properly, it’s best to bring in a pro. Experts will make sure everything is properly aligned and secured. And if there are any hiccups along the way, they’ll be able to solve these problems at no extra cost to you.
You might want to check out online reviews before calling the first company that pops up on your Google search results. Start on all the usual platforms, like Reddit or Yelp, and find someone with an excellent track record. For an example of a top-notch solar panel installation company, look at blueravensolar.com/texas.
Before you sign on the dotted line, you can also ask your buddies if they know anyone who’s employed your potential installer before. You’ll hear more about the genuine qualities of a company from someone who knows you well than from people online.
And don’t forget to ask about the warranties provided for all their work. When something goes wrong with your installation, you shouldn’t have to cover the repairs. A professional should be responsible for fixing the problem.
Insurance for Solar Panel Installation
Getting insured is an easy way to safeguard your assets. This is crucial if you’re in an area that gets slammed with intense weather or has a high risk of infernos. Your basic home insurance policy won’t cover damage caused by hail or strong winds.
If you want to buy insurance for your panels, here are some essential questions to ask your insurer:
- What’s the cost?
- How much is covered?
- Can you choose which company will install your panels?
Insurance costs differ depending on the company. Most insurers will add a fee to your homeowner’s insurance to cover the cost of solar panels, rather than offer an entirely new policy. This all hinges on how much coverage you want.
On the plus side, most homeowners’ policies already cover solar panel theft or vandalism.
Lower Your Carbon Footprint
Your solar panel direction is essential to lowering your energy bills. You’re also doing your part for Mother Earth by using clean energy and lessening the need for dirty old fossil fuels. As more people make the switch, our planet will be better off.
But until everyone jumps on board with solar power, check out our lifestyle pieces for tips on living a greener life. And we’ve got articles to help you feel a little happier with your choices, too.
