You have come across this page surely because you are interested in, or at least curious about, using solar in home energy system. This post addresses some of the common inquiries that homeowners have regarding this cost-effective alternative in energy use.
A home solar system, as you are aware, taps the heat of the sun to generate electricity. This system is installed in the home’s roof, particularly in the areas that get the most sun. The average home usually requires about 400 to 500 square feet of roof area. Homeowners have also the option to install the system on the ground, though this calls for more design requirements.
Installation of solar in home on the roofs obviously will add weight to the house. Some homeowners are worried that installation might cause damage to the roofs. A solar energy system actually weighs less than four pounds for every covered squared foot. Potential damage should not be a concern in as much as solar energy companies are aware of various procedures in treating nearly all home construction materials.
And speaking of construction materials, it is worth noting that the ease of installation of home solar energy system depends on your home’s roof design The most ideal situation is where the roofs are easily accessible, neat, and not obstructed by other objects like tree branches. Homes with roof gables can always be addressed if there are adequate spaces to install the solar panels on. What is important is that the panels do not get any shade that can reduce their absorption of the sun’s heat.
Home solar energy companies are knowledgeable in approaching different types of roofs, so there will not be a problem whether your home roofs are built with wood, composite, tar and gravel, metal, cement tiles, what-have-you. But of course, the friendliness of these roof types in terms of installation varies, so expect to pay more if your home roof type is made of quite difficult materials like barrel tile or cement.
The location of your home is also a factor in determining where to install the solar in home. As a general rule, the most ideal roofs to mount the solar panels on are those that face the south and the southwest. These directions are proven to give the highest levels of solar absorption and energy generation. You should however not worry if your home is quite complicated and does not match the ideal. There are several ways to solve such problems.
Homes obviously age through time, and that includes your roofs. If your roofs need repair or replacement, it follows that the solar panels need to be detached. This is where the importance of choosing the right solar energy company comes in. You should get a company that offers free removal and reinstallation services as part of the whole contract. You just have to call the company, ask them to remove the system, do the necessary roof maintenance, repair, or replacement procedures, and then call them again for reinstallation. The services as mentioned are free of charge in some companies. Others require a minimum pay.
