Solar panels are a wonderful option for those who would like to use less electricity. Whether you want to focus on creating a greener, more sustainable home or just have a source of backup power during blackouts, solar energy is a smart choice for you. Getting solar panels on your home may seem challenging, but it’s a growing business, which makes this energy source more accessible for homeowners. Here are a few helpful tips for installing solar panels at home to make the process go more smoothly for you.
Prepare Your Roof
The advantage of solar panels is that they last a long time—but it’s a good idea to first ensure that your roof is up for the task of hosting them. It’s always a good idea to clean off your roof and double-check that everything is in good condition before you lay any solar panels down on top of it. You could get by with a normal cleaning if you recently redid your roof. However, if it’s been ten years since you replaced the shingles or recovered things, it may be worth taking care of that before putting down any panels.
Reduce Potential Obstacles
Installing solar panels can be challenging if you live in a particularly shady area. When you hire a professional to perform an inspection or install the panels for you, they can help you find areas where you can install your system while getting the most sunlight. It may be beneficial to you to remove certain obstructions, like trees and branches, that can get in the way. There are several ways to minimize solar panel system shading to get the most out of the sunlight. If your area is overly shady, you can combat these blockages through microinverters, which are a worthwhile investment.
Allow Breathing Space
A helpful tip for installing solar panels at home is to leave a little bit of space between the bottom of the panel and the top of your roof. A common misconception is that panels work better in the heat because they absorb more sun. However, panels absorb light, not heat, and they are typically less effective in hotter climates like Florida. Leaving a small gap under the panels allows for more natural airflow and allows them to cool down on hotter days.