Installing solar panels reduces energy bills and lowers your carbon footprint to enhance environmental sustainability. When pursuing this energy alternative, there are a few precautions to take to ensure you get the most out of your system. Keep reading to find out how to get your home ready for Arizona solar panels.
How To Get Your Arizona Home Solar-Ready
Several steps go into preparing your home for solar panel installation. While slight variations may arise depending on your service provider, here are common steps for getting your home ready for solar.
Assess Your Energy Needs
The first step to getting your home ready for solar is understanding your energy consumption patterns and daily needs. You can understand the consumption patterns and household needs by studying your past energy bills to get an average. However, we recommend engaging a professional for a comprehensive energy audit.
A professional will consider your household size and consumption habits to determine average daily needs. They also look at future needs, such as possible expansions or consumption changes, to understand your energy needs. The comprehensive energy audit guides the professional in recommending the appropriate solar panel size for your home.
Examine Roof Suitability
While solar panels have a lifespan of between 25 and 30 years, they require stability for optimal performance and return on investment. That means you should only install the panels on a stable roof.
Before installing solar panels, contract an engineer to assess the structural integrity of your roof. The engineer will inspect the roof for signs of damage or deterioration that may compromise the stability of the solar panels. Depending on the state and age of the roof, the engineer can recommend necessary repairs or a replacement before the solar panel installation.
Research Local Solar Incentives To Optimize Costs
As environmental sustainability concerns increase, governments provide tax incentives and rebates to encourage homeowners to go solar. The tax incentives and rebates reduce the installation cost by up to $1,000. Contact a professional energy consultant to help guide you through the application process.
Select a Qualified Solar Panel Installer
The efficiency of a solar panel depends on the type and the installation process. A poorly installed system will be inefficient regardless of its quality. Select a qualified solar installer familiar with regional requirements and navigate the permitting process to ensure you enjoy all the benefits of going solar.
Get a Final Inspection and Proper Grid Connection After Installation
Once the solar panels are installed and running, your installer conducts a system efficiency inspection. The installer should ensure the system meets your current and future household power needs before leaving the site. They should also help you connect excess power to the grid through the APS Interconnection.
Ready to Go Solar? Contact Us for a Comprehensive Home Assessment
Evaluating your home’s energy use and roof is essential before installing solar panels. At Solar Optimum, we conduct home assessments to ensure your home is ready for solar and that your investment is viable. Our team of experts serve Maricopa County, Pinal County, Pima County and Yavapai County. Contact us to learn more about the benefits of going solar in Arizona, or download Solar Optimum’s Ultimate Guide to Going Solar.
