Solar panels can help lower energy costs while contributing to a greener world. Finding an experienced installer who knows which system will be ideal for your home can make all the difference in terms of costs and environmental benefits.
Size, orientation and pitch all affect how large an array you should purchase for your roof space. There are numerous solutions for those with limited roof space who are looking for solar solutions.
Size
An average rooftop solar system needs approximately 25 panels to generate 10 kW of energy, although your exact needs and usage may dictate more or fewer panels. Furthermore, roof space considerations need to be made carefully; roofs that receive shade from trees or steeper pitches may not be ideal for solar; additionally your shingles must be in good condition to support its weight and support an array of panels.
To estimate your annual energy usage, start by reviewing past electricity bills. From there, calculate how many solar panels will need to be added onto your roof – your local installer can assist in selecting an ideal system size for you home.
Sunlight
Even if your roof isn’t ideal for solar, ground-mounted panels may still allow you to reap its financial and environmental advantages. Installed on a ground rack, these can be located anywhere on your property that receives enough sun.
Size, pitch and shade will determine how many solar panels can fit on your roof and the amount of energy you produce; more shade equals less energy produced.
Homeowners can check their roof’s suitability for solar using tools like Google Project Sunroof or PVWatts, or by contacting an Arch installer. Arch installers offer free proposals with detailed maps highlighting any solar potential within your property and can offer detailed solutions that best meet their clients’ needs.
Roof Structure
Roof structures consist of structural trusses or rafters which support the buildup. With solar panels adding weight to an already heavy structure, installation must ensure it can accommodate this additional weight without becoming compromised.
If the roof is sloped, made of non-ideal materials or has shade, it may not be an ideal place for rooftop solar installation. In these instances, ground mount or carport systems might provide the better option.
Ground-mounted systems are mounted to the ground and can be moved throughout the day to get optimal sun exposure. This type of system requires a large space and may be vulnerable to vandalism and dirt build-up, although adjustable brackets may help orient it as needed.
Material
Rooftop solar can help save money on electricity costs while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions, but selecting an effective system requires careful thought and consideration of various factors, including panel type, roof size and location as well as sunlight availability.
Rooftop solar systems consist of various components, including solar panels, an inverter and battery storage devices. An inverter converts direct current into alternating current, while batteries store this energy.
Wattage of solar panels depends on the angle and timing of sunlight as well as your appliance usage and may fluctuate throughout the year. Some roof types such as shake or corrugated metal roofs do not make ideal locations for rooftop solar systems.
Cost
At times, rooftop solar panels may not be the ideal location. Perhaps the roof is too shaded, or not facing towards the sun directly enough. Ground mounted systems may prove more effective as they capture more light and generate more electricity than rooftop systems can.
If your home offers ample room for solar and you want to reduce energy costs with minimal upfront investments, talk with an Arch partner today about getting a no-pressure proposal. They will show how many panels can fit on the roof as well as which type of system would best suit it. They can also explain the costs differences between rooftop and ground-mounted systems depending on factors like available space, system size and electricity consumption.
