You might be surprised to learn that the average cost of solar panels has dropped by nearly 70 percent since 2014. With each passing year, it only becomes more ideal to invest in solar energy. Not only is it far better for reducing your carbon footprint, it can also save you a considerable amount of money in energy costs in the long run.
Nonetheless, as beneficial as they are, solar panels aren’t for just anyone. Making the leap to a life of going green and using solar energy is a decision to approach from as informed a position as possible. Here are six tips to keep in mind before switching to solar.
1. Know Your Home Is Right For Solar Panels
Solar panels don’t just provide the same effect to any given home.
Whether it’s the orientation of your house, the shape of its roof, or the amount of sunlight it gets, there are many factors that can affect its renewable energy efficiency that should be taken into account.
2. Make Sure Roof Can Handle Them
If your roof is old or in need of repair, that should absolutely be something you fix before installing solar panels.
The average roof only lasts about twenty years, and shouldn’t be used as an energy source if too close to the end of its lifespan.
3. Stay Attentive to the Cost of Going Green
The average solar panel cost may seem daunting at first, but it’s an investment that should pay off in energy savings over time. However, don’t assume this is a given when you go green.
Monitor solar energy savings closely and make sure the switch is a net financial good before committing.
4. Leave Installation to the Pros
As much as you may be tempted, don’t try to handle solar panel installation yourself.
Installation mistakes can end up causing damage and costing you far more money in the long run, so trust a quality solar service.
5. Explore Your Options
There are many varieties of environmentally friendly solar panels on the market, so don’t just aim for the cheapest or best reviewed.
Learn the pros and cons of each and find the panels best suited to your home and its location.
6. Lease First If You Aren’t Sure
Switching to solar is a big commitment, yet that’s no reason to miss out on solar energy’s advantages!
If you don’t know whether buying solar panels is right for you, you can always lease them to give renewable energy a test run on your budget.
Stay Ahead of the Curve and Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
From installing solar panels to the small decisions you make every day, there are all kinds of beneficial strategies for going green that you may have never considered. The best way to stay attuned to them is to keep yourself informed.
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