Is My House a Good Candidate for Solar Panels?
Thinking about switching to solar energy for your home? Before making the leap, it’s important to assess whether your house is a good fit for solar panels installation. Asking the right questions can guide you in making an informed decision. Here are some crucial factors to consider:
Key Questions to Consider When You Want to Install Solar Panels for Your House
1. Physical location and local climate
The climate and location of your home are some of the important things to consider in determining the effectiveness of solar panels. Take into account factors such as sunlight hours, temperature variations, and local weather patterns. Homes in sunnier regions with minimal cloud cover tend to benefit more from solar energy. Though solar panels work in all weather, be it rainy or cloudy since they use sunlight not heat.
2. Is your roof in good shape to mount solar panels?
Before considering solar panels, ensure that your roof is in excellent condition. Solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, so your roof should have a similar or longer lifespan to withstand the weight of the panel and to avoid any replacement in the near future. Check for any signs of damage, leaks, or deterioration that may require repair or replacement.
3.Determine your roof’s orientation and angle
The orientation and angle of your roof play a significant role in solar panel efficiency. The panels should be mounted where there is no shading to maximize sunlight exposure. Additionally, the roof slope should be between 15 to 40 degrees for optimal energy production. Though when it comes to Kenya, the roof orientation and angle take little consideration since we are near the equator.
For orientation we always consider the East-West Orientation: This is ideal because Kenya is near the equator, and the sun rises in the east and sets in the west throughout the year. This orientation allows the panels to capture the most sunlight throughout the day.
In case of a tilt angle, panels can often be installed facing straight up for homes near the equator, and still achieve good results.
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4.What type of roof does your home have?
Solar panels work best with strong, durable roofing materials, such as composite or asphalt shingle, concrete tile or standing seam metal. For roofing materials such as slate tile or for roofs made of clay with mortar or composite metal/stone coated steel, you can still go solar but you’d want to choose a solar professional who has experience installing solar panels on those types of roofs. Also, the type of mounting hardware your solar installer plans to use is important
5.How much is your electricity bill?
Understanding your current energy consumption and expenses is essential for determining the size of the solar panel system you’ll need. The best thing to do is to review your monthly electricity bills to gauge your average usage and costs, which will help you make an informed decision about solar panel installation.
6.What is the average lifespan of solar panels for your house, and how does it align with your future plans for the property?
Knowing the lifespan of solar panels is crucial for long-term planning. Consider whether you plan to stay in the property for the entire lifespan of the panels which is 25 years or if you anticipate any major changes that might affect their usefulness.
7.Have you assessed your property’s solar potential through a professional solar site analysis?
A solar site analysis evaluates various factors such as solar irradiance, shading, roof space, and potential obstructions. This analysis provides valuable insights into the feasibility and potential output of a solar energy system for your property. It is always good to call a solar company to come access your home before any installations.
Get More Information: 6 Things To Consider Before Installing Solar Panels At Your Property Or Home
Assessing whether your house is a good candidate for solar panels involves considering the above factors before installation. By evaluating these elements, you can make an informed decision about the feasibility and benefits of solar energy for your home. Remember that a professional solar site analysis can provide comprehensive insights and recommendations tailored to your property.
Ready to explore the potential of solar energy for your home? Contact Voltmatic Energy Solutions today for a free solar site analysis and personalized consultation. Our experts will help you determine the best solar solution for your needs, ensuring maximum efficiency and savings.
Phone: 0759493610
Email: info@voltmaticenergysolutions.co.ke