4 Questions to Ask Before Installing Solar Panels
Published in Home Articles
Install a solar panel system on your house in 2022, and you can claim a 26% tax credit. That’s a dollar-for-dollar reduction on the amount of income tax you owe the IRS. Wait until 2023; this percentage decreases to 22%, and the credit expires in 2024.
This puts a time limit pressure on homeowners who are deciding if installing solar panels is right for them. So if you’re considering solar panels, ask yourself these four questions.
1. Can My Roof Support the Panels Required?
Solar power panel installation requires you to have a roof that’s strong enough to support the weight of the system. Older roofs or those that don’t have enough structural support will not be strong enough to support the extra weight. Remember, your roof has a recommended weight limit while your solar system has the panels and metal support frame.
2. Is There Warranty Coverage?
Once you install solar panels, you want to leave them alone for years to come. This isn’t a project you want to revisit every couple of months or years. Warranty coverage protects your investment should there be a defect in your panels.
Sometimes problems don’t arise until years later. Long-term warranty coverage will protect this expensive investment. It can also give you an indication of the solar panels’ quality.
3. Does the Power Output Justify My Usage?
If your electric bill is very low, then it can be hard to justify the cost of solar panel installation. Solar panel power tends to benefit those who have high electricity bills. Because for them, the monthly payment from financing the solar system is lower than an electricity payment.
There is also the tax benefit to consider. This can also offset your expenses and make the investment worth it. There are federal and state credits, so be sure to check out both when calculating your costs and benefits.
4. Is My Chosen Installer Reputable?
Like any other contractor you hire to work on your home, your solar panel installer should be licensed and insured. Because solar panel installation has become a profitable business, there are many questionable companies out there offering their services. Therefore, the installer you hire needs to have the necessary licensing for the state you live in.
This ensures they are using the best practices so that you have a system that will last for years to come. The leading solar installers also stand behind their work.
Insurance is necessary because there will be people walking around and working on your roof. This creates a high risk of injury. If the contractor doesn’t have their own insurance, your homeowners’ insurance will be on the hook.
Consider Installing Solar Panels on Your Home
How you answer these five questions will determine if installing solar panels is right for you. Perhaps your home doesn’t have a roof that can support the entire system. On the other hand, maybe you have a high enough electricity bill to justify the investment.
Check out our other home improvement articles for more guidance on upgrading and modernizing your home’s features.