Are Solar Panels a Good Idea for Your Home?

The sun will be around for the next few billion years so why not take advantage of it! The use of solar panels on the roofs of homes has expanded to take advantage of this natural source of energy and warmth.

Homeowners can have any number of photovoltaic panels installed based on the size of the home and its electrical use. The geographical area is also taken into consideration. States in the south and southwest usually have more sunny days annually. States in more northerly regions may have 14 to 18 hours of sunlight during the summer but an equal amount of darkness during the winter.

The photovoltaic panels are installed by a trained professionals who know the best direction for the panels to absorb the sun’s rays. This is typically a south or southwest direction.

The energy from the panels is directed into the electrical system of the home through an inverter, and it may be stored in a battery.  The inverter changes the direct current (DC) from the sun to the alternating current (AC) required to power your home. The storage battery or battery wall keeps excess power. It can also be used to charge electric vehicles.

How Solar Affects Your Energy Costs

The electrical power you need is supplied by your solar panels and regulator. The excess power is turned over to the power utility’s grid system. You are given credit for your contribution to the grid based on the cost per kilowatt-hour.  As long as you contribute to the grid, you do not have a monthly electrical bill.

Your panels no longer absorb energy when the sun goes down. Dark, dreary, winter days do not produce much solar energy. That is when you use the energy stored in batteries or take power from the grid. Since you contributed to the grid system, your energy bill will be very low for the winter months. You may have enough credit from your excess energy to avoid paying any cost during the darker months of the year.

Evaluate Electrical Usage

Homeowners who consider installing solar panels must evaluate the cost of their annual electrical bills along with the savings from solar panels. They must also understand the cost of the solar installation.

Your geographical location affects your electrical costs based on your use of electrical heating or air conditioning in your home. Your HVAC system  generally consumes the most power. You need to look at your cost for other appliances along with lighting. You may also use an energy-saving dishwasher, dryer or washing machine.

Do you have an electric oven? How often do you turn on the television and your computer? How many mobile devices do you charge every day? Do you have a swimming pool and/or hot tub spa? These are issues to consider when you evaluate the savings from solar panels.

Many people have decided that solar panels can help with their utility costs. There are special financing plans and tax credits for solar installation. In addition, a PV solar system can add thousands of dollars to your home’s value.

This is the present and the future for people who want a sustainable lifestyle that is not dependent on fossil fuels.

Solar Panels and Insurance

Solar panels are placed on the roof of homes and many commercial businesses. Most homeowner and building insurance policies that cover the roof will include solar panels. This is part of your home that is included in the policy. Solar panels also have the added benefit of protecting your roof in many areas of the country.

The panels are not harmed by rain and snow. There are hail protectors for the panels in some areas. The strongest panels can stand up to most windy conditions without damage. People who live in areas with extreme weather conditions such as tornadoes and hurricanes should consult with companies offering solar panels.

Take a good look at the addition of solar panels to save energy. Contact us at Insure Your Company for information on insurance for home and commercial buildings with solar panels.