There are a lot of things to think about when you're considering buying solar panels. You want to make sure that you get the best deal, and that you choose the right company to install them. However, there are also some mistakes that people often make when they're buying solar panels. In this blog post, we'll talk about some of those mistakes, and how to avoid them!
Be Careful With Mis-Sold Panels
Be careful of solar panel companies that mis-sell their products. This is when a company tries to sell you a solar panel that is not right for your home or doesn't meet your needs. Make sure that you know what you need before you buy, and don't let anyone talk you into something that isn't right for you. So what should you do when it comes to mis-sold solar panel claims and your rights to compensation? Well, you have a few options.
You can either try to negotiate with the company yourself, or you can hire a lawyer to help you. If you decide to go the legal route, then you should definitely contact a solicitor who specializes in this area. They will be able to assist you in obtaining the just recompense.
Underestimating The Energy Consumption
If you underestimate your energy consumption, you might end up with a system that is too small to meet your needs. This mistake can be costly, as you'll likely have to purchase additional panels to expand your system.
The average home in the United States uses about 900 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month. But, of course, this number can vary greatly depending on the size of your home, the climate where you live, and your energy habits. To get a more accurate estimate of your energy needs, check out a solar calculator.
A few panels might not seem like a lot, but if they're not producing enough power, it can be a big problem. Make sure to do your research and avoid this mistake when buying solar panels. You should aim to get a system that will cover at least 80% of your energy needs.
If you're not sure how to calculate this, again, a solar calculator can be a big help. Just enter in your average monthly energy usage and it will give you an estimate of the size system you'll need. Remember, it's always better to err on the side of a larger system, as you can always sell the excess power back to your utility company.
Thinking Only About Your Return On Investment
Many people think only about their return on investment (ROI) when they are considering solar panels for their homes. While it is important to think about the financial aspects of any large purchase, you should not make your decision solely based on ROI. There are other factors to consider, such as the environmental impact of solar panels and the long-term savings that you could realize. Do your research and make sure you are making the best decision for your needs.
Another mistake to avoid is not considering all of the available incentives. There are federal, state, and local incentives available for solar panel installations. These incentives can significantly reduce the cost of going solar, so be sure to investigate what is available to you.
Finally, don't forget to factor in the maintenance costs of solar panels. Solar panels require very little maintenance, but it is important to budget for occasional cleaning and repairs. Overall, solar panels are a great investment that can save you money and help the environment.
Not Replacing Your Roof From The Start
One of the biggest mistakes people make when considering solar panels is not replacing their roofs from the start. If you have an old, worn-out roof, it's going to need to be replaced eventually anyway. Why not do it now and get the added benefit of having a brand-new roof that's ideal for solar panel installation? Not only will you be getting a stronger, more durable roof, but you'll also be able to take advantage of any government incentives or rebates that are available for solar panel installation.
Another mistake people make is not doing their research before they buy solar panels. There are a lot of different types and brands of solar panels on the market, so it's important to do your homework and make sure you're getting the best possible product for your needs. There are a lot of great solar panel options out there, so don't settle for anything less than the best.
Finally, people often make the mistake of thinking that they can install solar panels themselves. Unless you're an experienced electrician or have some other type of technical expertise, it's generally not a good idea to try and install solar panels yourself. Not only is it more expensive to do it this way, but you could also end up damaging your roof or worse. It's always best to leave solar panel installation to the professionals.
Not Learning About Permits And Inspections
Not learning about permits and inspections is a mistake you don’t want to make when buying solar panels. Depending on where you live, there may be different requirements for installing solar panels. Some places require a permit, while others may not. It’s important to do your research and find out what is required in your area before you purchase solar panels.
Another mistake to avoid is not getting multiple quotes. When you’re looking for a solar panel installer, it’s important to get multiple quotes. This will help you ensure that you’re getting the best possible price. Don’t just go with the first quote you receive, take the time to get a few different ones.
Finally, make sure you understand the warranty before you purchase solar panels. Most solar panels come with a warranty, but it’s important to read the fine print and understand what is covered. Some warranties only cover certain parts of the solar panel, while others may cover the entire thing.
In conclusion, there are a few different mistakes to avoid when buying solar panels. Be sure to do your research, get multiple quotes, and understand the warranty before you make your purchase. By following these tips, you can be sure that you’re getting the best possible deal on solar panels.
