Did you know that going solar can save you about $1,100 every year?
Solar equipment can provide you with renewable energy benefiting you and your home. Not only will it reduce your energy bills, but it will also help the environment.
Buying solar equipment is a big investment, so you need to do your research. Here are five tips to help you choose the right equipment and supplier.
1. Ask the Right Questions
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When choosing solar equipment, you have to find the right supplier first. Ensure that the installer you choose has a license and is MSC accredited. Solar equipment suppliers, like Blue Raven Solar, should be a member of REAL or STA.
Ask your local suppliers for their credentials and licenses. They should be reputable enough that your friends and family refer them to you. Make sure you also ask about possible insurance and the prices for the solar power equipment.
2. Check the Warranties and Standards
Ensure that when you buy solar equipment, it should meet local and international standards. Ask the installer for supply proof with certified and approved labels.
Don’t forget to inspect the warranties covering the product and its performance. Most solar equipment has product warranties lasting 10 to 20 years. The performance should still be able to produce 80% of power after 20 years.
If the solar equipment doesn’t last as long as stated in the warranty, you can make a warranty claim. Nevertheless, ask your solar energy equipment supplier to give you a legal warranty.
3. Look at the Efficiency
There are three main types of solar equipment:
- Monocrystalline
- Polycrystalline
- Amorphous
Monocrystalline is the most popular choice for many consumers. They provide the most efficient solar equipment, and they take the least space on your roof.
Polycrystalline solar equipment is the most common with its blue color. They are efficient, but they take more space than monocrystalline. Amorphous are cheap, but they are the least efficient in the industry.
4. Grab the Best Mounting Option
The mount is essential for placing your solar equipment on the roof or any raised surface. It should also match your weather and the slant of the surface.
Ballasted mounts are a great choice for those who live in an area with low wind. Mechanically attached mounts are the most secure choice, lasting well under harsh weather. However, they work best on a roof with little to no angle.
Hybrid mounts are similar to mechanically attached, but they work with raised angles. There is also the fixed type of mount that tracks the sun throughout the whole day. They are the best choice if you can’t place the solar equipment on your roof.
5. Consider Your Budget
To avoid spending all your cash, be sure to list down all the things you may need. Add the costs of hiring an installer and the solar equipment. This includes the panel material, mount, solar inverter type, and many more.
Go Green With the Best Solar Equipment
Choosing the best solar equipment is a daunting task but it becomes a whole lot easier with these five tips. Get the best mount, consider your budget, ask for the warranty, and aim for efficiency.
Don’t stop here!
We have more tips and questions that can help you narrow down your solar equipment search. Check out our other guides with information that will help achieve going green.
