Mistake # 2: Not using an experienced solar professional to install your system.
The best solar installers undergo extensive training and are able to rely on years of solar installation experience. These professionals know the incentives and rebates in your area and will ensure that your home solar power system meets the requirements. They also will optimize your system’s position in relation to the sun, which will guarantee peak performance resulting in the lowest possible electrical bill for you. What’s more, professional solar installers are unlikely to make the installation mistakes that are common in ‘do-it-yourself’ jobs. Whether it is a leak in your roof or an electrical connection that doesn’t meet county code, there are many ways that a solar installation can go wrong. Finally, professional solar installers can help you through the mountain of paperwork and permits necessary to install your system and get it online. To top it all off, professional solar installers can also help you secure financing for your system. For more information on qualified professionals, you can check out this report on California solar companies written by the research analysts at Clean Energy Experts.
Also, click here if you are ready to learn more about solar power and need estimates from solar companies.
Mistake # 3: Forgetting to look at financing and leasing options.
The average home solar power system costs between $10,000 and $30,000 after rebates and incentives. For most of us, this represents a major investment, comparable in cost to a new car. Financing a home solar power system can reduce your initial out-of-pocket expenses and make the entire process easier. Most solar installers will work with you to find the purchase option that makes the most sense and help you get the financing you need. Leasing is another attractive option if you don’t want to pay for the solar equipment or installation up-front. Instead, you simply pay for the electricity that the solar system generates each month. Both financing and leasing are great ways to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses and still experience the benefits of going solar. To learn more, visit our financing information page.
Mistake # 4: Not making your home energy-efficient first.
A good first step toward solar is to check your home’s energy efficiency. You can do a simple home energy audit on your own or hire a contractor to help you. Most homeowners discover that they can lower their electric bill simply by making their home more efficient. In fact, the average home energy audit finds potential electricity savings of up to 30%. Common energy efficiency problems include leaky air ducts, inefficient appliances and incandescent light bulbs. Solving these problems increases the likelihood that your home solar system will be able to completely eliminate your electric bill and that you may even get a check from the local electric utility every month.
Mistake # 5: Miscalculating your solar savings.
Figuring out exactly how much you can save with your solar panels is a complex process. It involves a careful evaluation of the installation site, the available sunlight and amount of shading on your home, and the characteristics of the solar panels. Most solar websites (including ours) have simple calculators that provide estimates of how much you can save, but these are only approximations. Having a professional solar installer visit your home to provide a consultation is the best way to get a more precise estimate. With these estimates of costs and savings, you can be sure that solar power is an investment that makes sense for you.
Now that you know “what not to do”, you are better prepared in your solar undertakings! Be sure to check our solar consultation page if you would like to receive a consultation from some of our local solar professionals.