Using solar power is a great way to cut down on your consumption of standard electrical power, lowering your energy bills in the process. As large power plants often produce pollution in order to generate electricity, solar power is also healthier for the environment. If you're thinking of having solar panels installed for your home, note a few commonly asked questions about these panels so you can determine if they're the right choice for you.
Do solar panels increase a home's value?
Note that you typically need to buy solar panels, not lease them, to increase your home's value. The size of panels may also determine their affect on the home's overall value; undersized panels that don't capture much energy from the sun may not make a difference in your consumption of city-supplied electricity. On the other hand, homebuyers may not appreciate oversized panels that are placed all along your yard or that cover the home's entire roof. Talk to a real estate agent about how solar panels may affect your home's resale value in particular.
Will the panels collect power when covered by snow?
Solar panels don't need bright and direct sunlight to collect solar power, but they do need sunlight to actually reach the wiring of the panels. If those panels are covered by snow or a build-up of dirt, leaves, and other debris, their wiring may not collect the sun's rays.
However, note that solar panels are installed on an angle and will have a smooth surface that is specifically designed to encourage snow, dirt, and other such debris to slide away. It's also very easy to simply brush the solar panels clean to keep the surface clear.
Are all home roofs suitable for solar panels?
A roof doesn't need to be overly strong to support solar panels, as the panels are very light and shouldn't cause any structural concerns. The wiring for solar panels is also insulated and fully covered so it shouldn't be an issue with a metal roof. However, if a home's roof has a lot of peaks and gables, there may not be much space for standard panels, and some roofing styles may not provide a flat surface for a solar panel to stay secure. You may then need to have those panels installed on the ground on free-standing poles, or downsize the panels you choose. An installer can tell you the best options for your home's roof material and style.
