What is the best roof pitch for solar panels?

The best pitch for solar panels is between 35-45 degrees.

Am I selling electricity back into the grid?

When you install a solar system, you may be able to sell any excess energy produced back to the grid. This is known as net metering, where you receive credits from your utility company for the energy you contribute. These credits can then be applied to offset your electricity usage and potentially lower your monthly bill.

How much does a solar panel system cost?

The cost of a solar panel system can vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of the system, the location where it is installed, and local incentives or rebates. On average, a residential solar panel system can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $20,000. However, the cost can be significantly lower if a homeowner is eligible for provincial or federal tax credits or other incentives. The cost of the solar panel system can also be reduced by financing options such as solar leases or power purchase agreements.

Do I have to rewire or make electrical upgrades to get solar panels?

In most cases, solar panel systems can be installed without the need for significant electrical upgrades or rewiring. However, there are a few things to consider:

  1. Your home's electrical panel: If your home's electrical panel is outdated or does not have enough capacity to accommodate a solar panel system, you may need to upgrade it.
  2. Your home's wiring: If your home's wiring is outdated or not in good condition, it may need to be upgraded to support a solar panel system.
  3. The size of the solar panel system: The larger the solar panel system, the more electrical upgrades may be required.

It is important to have a professional solar panel installer assess your home's electrical system before installing a solar panel system. They can advise you on any necessary upgrades or modifications that may be required.

Are solar panel systems expensive?

Very affordable for every homeowner. Most people can't afford a home, so we take a mortgage.

A typical homeowner spends about $100-$500/month on electricity, depending on how you heat and cool the home. $200 monthly bill x 24 months = $2400/yr. x 10 yrs. = $24,000 10/yrs.

But let's be real, the cost of electricity rates is going up and inflation, regardless if you use more. Solar panels can be financed; instead, you can make your power and pay down your system.

A typical system can cost you around $15,000 - $30,000.

Should I repair or replace my roof before I go solar?

If the roof is already fairly old it's in your best interest to replace it prior to the installation of a solar system.

Where are solar panels usually installed?

Solar panels are typically installed on rooftops, ground-mounted structures, or carports.

Rooftop solar panel installations are the most common, as they take advantage of the unused space on a home or business's roof. Rooftop solar panel installations can be mounted on a pitched or flat roof, depending on the specific needs and conditions of the building.

Ground-mounted solar panel structures are used when a building does not have a suitable roof for solar panel installation, or when there is more available space on the ground. These structures can be freestanding or mounted on a pole, and they can be installed in a variety of locations, such as in a yard or on a parking lot.

Carports are covered structures that are used to park vehicles, and they can be equipped with solar panels on the roof. Carport solar panel installations can provide shade for vehicles and generate electricity at the same time.

Solar panels can also be installed on other structures, such as walls, fences, or awnings. The specific location of a solar panel installation will depend on the specific needs and conditions of the building or property. It's important to work with a trained solar panel professional to determine the best location for a solar panel installation.

How does a solar system benefit the environment?

Solar energy systems offer numerous environmental benefits. Here are a few ways in which solar energy systems can benefit the environment:

  1. Reduces greenhouse gas emissions: Solar energy systems generate electricity without producing greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, which are major contributors to climate change.
  2. Decreases air pollution: Solar energy systems do not produce air pollution, such as particulate matter and other harmful emissions, which can have negative impacts on air quality and public health.
  3. Conserves natural resources: Solar energy systems do not rely on fossil fuels, such as coal, oil, and natural gas, which are nonrenewable resources that are becoming increasingly scarce.
  4. Reduces water consumption: Solar energy systems do not require water for cooling or other purposes, which can help to conserve water resources.
  5. Protects wildlife: Solar energy systems do not require the construction of large dams or other infrastructure that can disrupt ecosystems and harm wildlife.

By generating electricity from solar energy, we can help to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and reduce the environmental impacts of electricity generation. This can help to create a more sustainable and healthy environment for future generations.

How do I go off grid with solar panels?

Going off the grid with solar panels involves installing a solar panel system that is capable of producing enough electricity to meet all or most of your energy needs. There are a few steps you can take to go off the grid with solar panels:

  1. Assess your energy needs: Determine how much electricity you typically use and what your peak energy demand is. This will help you determine the size and capacity of the solar panel system you will need.
  2. Install a battery storage system: In order to go off the grid, you will need a way to store excess electricity for times when the sun is not shining. A battery storage system can help to store excess electricity and provide a reliable source of power when needed.
  3. Install a solar panel system: Choose a solar panel system that is appropriate for your energy needs and the size of your property. Make sure to work with a trained solar panel professional to ensure that the system is installed safely and correctly.
  4. Disconnect from the grid: Once your solar panel system is installed and operational, you can disconnect from the grid and rely on your own solar-generated electricity.

It's important to note that going off the grid with solar panels can be a significant undertaking, and it requires a significant upfront investment in equipment and installation costs. It's important to carefully consider the costs and potential benefits before making a decision to go off the grid.

Why do I need my historical energy usage for a solar quote?

By calculating the total amount of electricity used, a system can be designed and sized appropriately to meet current and future demands. In some instances, utilities do not allow you to install more than 115% of your current needs.

How many solar panels will my house need?

The solar panels we currently use are roughly 25 sqft and homes typically need 20 - 40 panels to offset their needs. The home should have good surface area pointing east, west and ideally south. Avoid installing panels towards the North facing roof.

Will solar panels increase the value of my home?

Solar panel systems can potentially increase the value of your home, as they can reduce energy costs and make your home more attractive to potential buyers. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes with solar panel systems have been shown to sell faster and at a higher price than comparable homes without solar panel systems.

There are several factors that can affect the value that solar panel systems add to your home, including:

  • The size of the solar panel system: A larger solar panel system will generally have a greater impact on the value of your home than a smaller system.
  • The age and condition of the solar panel system: A newer, well-maintained solar panel system will generally have a greater impact on the value of your home than an older, poorly maintained system.
  • The location of the solar panel system: Solar panel systems that are visible from the street or are in a location that is visible from the interior of the home may have a greater impact on the value of your home than systems that are not as visible.
  • The energy costs in your area: Solar panel systems can potentially have a greater impact on the value of your home in areas with high energy costs, as they can reduce energy bills and make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
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