Solar Energy For Homes – Selecting And Installing The Right System For You

Photovoltaic solar panels on the roof of a hou...
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

If you want to install home solar panels, first you must set aside some time for doing the required research. Finding the right solar system to provide solar energy for homes and your needs, is not as easy as you might think.

Solar panels come in two basic types. Those heating water and those that generate electricity, your first decision should be between the two.

Home Solar Panels Designed To Generate Electricity

The price of a PV system will, naturally, depend on size and type and whether you can furnish your own diy solar panels. Likewise, what type of home you have, the basic structural properties, will also play a part. Solar tiles are more expensive than traditional solar panels.

You will, of course, want the system to produce as much electricity as possible. The more generated, the more you will save on utility bills. However, systems generating more electricity are also more expensive to purchase initially. You will have to weigh these two factors against each other.

Home Solar Panels Designed For Heating Water

Solar panels can also be found designed to heat water. This system will typically not save you as much on utility bills as panels generating electricity, but will be cheaper to buy. If you are ambitious, you could consider installing both types of panels.

Where To Place Your Solar Panels

To ensure maximum efficiency, the solar panel installation should be placed on a roof facing south. The degree to the horizontal should be about 30-degrees. Avoid any shadows from chimneys, buildings and trees.

Be aware, that panels might require semi-regular maintenance, often as simple as wiping of the panel glass using a mild cleaning product. When you place the panels, this should be kept in mind, as you want a spot you can actually reach.

Home Solar panels offer environmentally friendly savings on your utility bills. To get the perfect system, consider what type is right for you and where to install it.