Solar panels have become increasingly common throughout the United States, especially in areas that experience sunny days throughout the majority of the year. If you are considering having these installed on your home, there is a lot to think about before signing the contract. By weighing the pros and cons, you can approach this investment with confidence knowing you’re making the right choice.
Pros:
- Savings
Most homes can save hundreds to thousands of dollars each year when they have fully functioning solar panels on their roof. In addition to this, most states offer tax breaks as incentives, which can help cover some of the costs of having these installed.
- Proven Technology
Solar panels have been around for many years, so you can invest knowing that the technology has passed the test of time. What’s even better is that since this technology is established and automatically works in your home, you don’t have to do anything to use it once the panels have been installed.
- Longevity
Although solar panels do not last forever, they still have a relatively long life of 25-30 years. This means they can more than pay for themselves in the time you have them, making the investment well worth it.
- Environmentally Friendly
With solar panels installed, you’ll be making your home more energy-efficient. This is great for the environment and can lower your overall carbon footprint.
Cons:
- Cost
For many homeowners, the initial cost to purchase solar panels is more than they can afford to spend at once. While paying in full is a great way to save on interest, it’s not the only option. There are many ways to make solar panels easier to afford with monthly payments.
- Limited Usage Times
Solar panels do not work at night not are they effective during bad weather when the sun isn’t shining. If you live in an area that isn’t particularly sunny, this may mean you won’t get a lot of use out of your panels throughout the year.
- Professional Installation Required
Although many projects can be done to your home yourself, installing solar panels is not one of them. In most states, a permit is required to install solar panels and extensive knowledge of the installation process is crucial. Without the right knowledge or experience, you could end up improperly installing these and not seeing optimal performance as a result.
4. Cleaning
Panels will need to be cleaned from time to time to keep their performance optimal. Dust and dirt will collect over time making them less efficient. Solar panel cleaning can be a daunting task for the average homeowner. You might need to hire a professional pressure washing service company to get the job done.
Investing in Solar Panels
Millions of homes throughout the country proudly display solar panels. However, for some, it’s simply not the right choice. If you’re not sure about whether or not you should make the investment, take the time to speak with a professional. They’ll help you learn more about what to expect out of these panels and the pros and cons you can expect.